10 Things You Should Have When Bathing Your Dog

     It is not advised that you bathe your dog very often. But, it is recommended that you bathe them when they get too dirty.

And before you wrestle or bring your dog towards the bathing area, make sure that you have all the things that you will need prepared and within your reach. Dog grooming requires these useful items:

1. Dog Shampoo. If possible, only use shampoos that were recommended by your veterinarian. Or, at least find a shampoo brand that is made for dogs, mild enough not to strip the natural oils in your dog's coat, but strong enough to clean them well and remove the dirt.

There are different types of shampoos for different ages of dogs. But, there are many who use homemade dog shampoos. Formulations for these are generally gentle so they can be used for almost any dog of any age.

2. Cotton balls. These will be used to clean the ears and remove moisture from them. When there is too much moisture on the ears, infectious agents may incubate and cause serious diseases. This is also the best opportunity for you to clean the ears and remove accumulated dirt from them.

Cotton balls may also be used to simply keep water out from the ears by plugging them in.

3. Sponge. When bathing your dog, you can prevent water from directly hitting the eyes by using a sponge to clean the areas close to the eyes. You may also be able to achieve a better clean as you can wipe these areas liberally but gently with the sponge.

A gentler replacement for a sponge is a washcloth. Before using this, remove excess water from it as much as possible.

4. Towels. Of course, you will need something to dry your dog with afterwards. Use a towel with a size that will be enough to dry them well.

5. Warm bathing area. You can give your dogs a bath either outside or inside of the house. Just make sure that the temperature is warm enough for them. Many would recommend giving them a bath inside the house as drafts may be prevented.

6. Tether. Dogs can become unruly. So, you need to make sure that you don't run after them while in the middle of bathing by tying them up. Dogs that have been used to being bathed may not require a tether after some time.

7. Comb. You can untangle your dog's coat after a bath by gently combing. You can also use detangler sprays for a better result.

8. Moisturizer. Your dog's coat will look and feel healthier when the right amount of moisture is retained in it. Using a moisturizer will help achieve this.

9. Rubber mat. If you are a stickler for safety, a rubber mat would be indispensible. These mats will prevent slips and will make you and your dog feel more secure.

10. Warm water. Your pet will be more difficult to control if it feels too cold while you are giving it a bath. Aside from avoiding drafts, giving them a bath with warm water will greatly help.