How to Shampoo Your Dog

When it comes to grooming, a bath is one of the healthiest things you can do for your dog, though he may rarely agree. Even the most docile canine may struggle and resist you at bath time. So next time you lather up Fido try some of these simple techniques to help ensure both of you have a pleasant experience.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Grooming brush or comb
• Cotton balls
• Rubber mat
• Dog leash or tether
• Spray hose
• Shampoo
• Towel

1. Set up the bath area before you ever bring your dog into the room. Lay out all the necessary items for bath time so that you can easily reach for what you need in the event your dog is squirming or trying to get away.

2. Prepare your dog by combing out any major snarls in his fur, and place cotton balls in his ears to keep soap and water from getting in. Just be sure to remove the cotton balls when you've finished grooming him.

3. Lift the dog into the tub and place him on a non-skid surface like a rubber mat. To securely lift him, put one hand in front of him and one in the rear under his tail so that his whole body is evenly supported.

4. Tether your dog to help ensure he can't try to escape and cause injury to himself or to you.

5. Use a spray hose to saturate your dog with warm water, and then apply a canine shampoo starting at the base of the head and lather his whole body. Gently massage him with your fingertips to remove the dirt and debris embedded in his fur, giving extra attention to his feet, beard and rear end.

6. Rinse well with the spray hose until all lather is removed, and then wrap a towel around your dog and lift him out of the tub using the same method you used to place him in the tub.

7. Dry your dog well by rubbing him down thoroughly with a towel. Be prepared for him to shake.

Tips & Warnings

• It's best to shampoo your dog in a room with a closed door. Then if he does get away from you, there's a limit to how far he can go.
• Be sure to talk to your dog in a calm voice while bathing him and praise him whenever possible. The more positive the grooming experience, the better for everyone involved.
• When spraying with water or applying shampoo, be very careful not to get anything in your dog's ears or eyes.
• Never leave your dog unattended while bathing him. When left alone with a tub full of water, a dog can get into all sorts of trouble, including an injury.