Learn the Best Way to Wash a Dog

Written by Doris Donnerman (last updated February 17, 2009)

Television shows and movies always show dog washing as quite the event. Fortunately for pet owners, it doesn't have to be such a fiasco. The trick to dog washing (and for many other things in life as well), is to prepare. Don't dive right into washing your dog. A little prep work will go a long way to making it look its best.

The first rule is walk the dog before washing. Have you ever bathed your dog, only to have it immediately run outside and roll in the dirt? You can avoid this frustration by taking them for a walk before bath time. You can help your dog get rid of the wiggles, and you can collect that final layer of dirt and grime before washing it all away. This way, it won't have any reason to go out until it is are good and dry.

Next, start by brushing their coat to get rid of tangled and matted fur. By making sure the fur is nice and smooth, you succeed in simplifying the actual washing process. You can brush out any remnants of nature you canine may have picked up and when your dog has a smooth coat, you won't have to worry about getting out the tangles when your dog is all wet and armed with suds. Now you're ready to start washing. If you are going to wash your dog in the bath, place a rubber mat in the bottom of the tub for a more secure footing for them. It will feel safer and be more relaxed.

Only use official dog shampoo or baby shampoo. Anything else could cause skin irritation. Lather them up with warm water, using a handheld shower if one is available. After toweling them off, use a hair dryer. Make sure it's set on warm, never hot. If your dog fears hairdryers, simply keep them inside until they are dry.

So, there you have it—you can enjoy a nice clean dog without the hassle portrayed through our not-so-honest media. Here's to a hassle-free, clean dog!

Author Bio

Doris Donnerman

Doris is a jack of all trades, writing on a variety of topics. Her articles have helped enlighten and entertain thousands over the years. ...

MORE FROM DORIS

Washing and Caring for Wool Garments

Wool is an excellent material that can last you a long time, but it won't get you very far into the winter if you don't ...

Discover More

Standard Schnauzer

The eldest of the Schnauzer breed, the Standard Schnauzer has extraordinary ratting skills. He is very high spirited and ...

Discover More

Saint Bernard

Massive in stature, the Saint Bernard is powerful and strong. He is very docile and sweet natured, but dangerous, due to ...

Discover More
More Pet Tips

Clean Your Dog's Teeth with Baking Soda

Dog oral hygiene is important, but not always fun to maintain. You can try baking soda to deep clean your dog's teeth, ...

Discover More

Does Your Dog Shed Hair?

Many dogs shed hair, and I believe it is one of the burdens of pet ownership. If stray dog hair everywhere drives you up ...

Discover More

Cleaning Your Dog's Ears with Vinegar

Dog ears inevitably get dirty, and as a pet owner, it's your responsibility to clean them. Try using some vinegar next ...

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 5 + 7?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)