Bathe a Dog - Learn How To Bathe Your Dog

The preparation, prior to giving your dog a bath is nearly as essential as the actual bath itself. You need to know how to bathe your dog correctly to obtain the most pleasing outcome for both you and your dog from the experience.

You should start by giving your dog a thorough brushing to ensure that its coat is clear of debris, mats and tangles. Check as well for any fleas or hot spots before putting him in the water.

Next prepare the room including the bathtub or sink if he's small by covering or removing any items that may be spoiled by water, because it is natural for your dog to shake himself when wet and water will fly just about everywhere.

Make sure that you have introduced your dog to the hair dryer, the noise of running water and the tools you will be using for grooming before he takes his first bath so that he will not be afraid of them.

Gather together all of the necessary bathing supplies before you start bathing your dog. This will include all grooming items, shampoo, brushes, combs, cotton balls, towels etc.. Have some of his favourite treats on hand so that you can reward him when he behaves well.

It's a good idea to think about having a spray hose that is easily fitted to the tap to help you wash off all the shampoo from your dog's coat. If that's not available a suitable container can be used to pour water onto his coat for rinsing. You may wish to give some thought to a tether if your dog moves about too much when you bathe him.

Before you put him into the bath and whilst bathing him, ensure that the water stays warm and don't overfill the tub or wash basin otherwise you'll have a mess to clear up.

Carefully put your dog into the bath and then either lightly spray or pour warm water over the back of his coat taking care not to scare him otherwise he will be reluctant to have a bath the next time.

Once your dog relaxes a little bit, start gently washing his face making sure that you do not spray water into his face. Wet the area around his mouth, eyes and nose with a washcloth. When shampooing try to make sure that the suds do not get into his eyes when you massage the lather right down to his skin.

If grooming tools such as a rubber brush are going to be used, use them now and remove those loose hairs easily. Using a soft brush, brush around your dog's paws and those other sensitive areas to clean him.

It's rinse time now. Use warm water and carefully rise off the shampoo lather from his coat and skin. If your dog was very dirty repeat the shampooing again. Use a detangle spray to make brushing easier, your dog will thank you.

After his bath, wrap him up in a towel and then rub him dry. Make sure the room is warm and draft free. A hair dryer can be used as long as he is not distressed by it.

Having just washed and dried you dog, if you now apply a dog conditioner you will help to make your dog's hair healthier and help stop it matting. When looking for a suitable a conditioner, check to see if they contain citronella and eucalyptus as these ingredients will keep unpleasant odours at bay and help to prevent fleas.

Having learned how to bathe your dog properly you will be helping to keep him both healthy and happy and if you bathe him correctly it's an activity you will enjoy together.

Giving your dog a bath is an important part of dog grooming and gives you a good opportunity to bond with your dog. Having established a bond with your dog you will find training him so much easier. Check out my Dog Training Academy to learn ways to train him to become the dog you will be proud of.