How to Give a Large Dog a Bath

Bathing is an essential part of dog ownership, as man's best friend tends to get dirty and a bit smelly. Giving a large dog a bath can be especially tricky, as they can quickly hop out of the tub and cover your entire house in lovely smelling soapy water. If you have trouble bathing your large dog, a few tricks can help on the next trip to the tub.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Dog brush
• Scissors (optional)
• Cotton balls
• Collar or harness
• Shampoo
• Towel(s)

1. Brush your dog thoroughly before beginning the bath. This is especially important for long-haired dogs. However, regardless of fur length, removing all of the loose hair and dander will make your job a lot easier. Make sure that you have removed all of the tangles and balls of fur, cutting out severe matted pieces of hair.
2. Place a cotton ball gently into each of your dogs ears. Make sure that you only press the cotton enough to protect the ears, as you want to be able to remove them quickly and easily. The cotton balls will prevent water from entering the ears and make bathing your pal's head much easier.
3. Get your dog into the tub. This can be the trickiest part of bathing a large dog. When possible, grip your dog under the flanks and between the front legs, pick him up and place him in the tub. If your dog is simply too large, straddle the dog with his head facing the tub, pick up his front legs and place them in the tub and then quickly step back and lift his hind end, gently forcing him in.
4. Keep your dogs collar on if she tends to attempt an escape during her bath. Even better, place a harness on her and keep a firm grip throughout the bath. While this may make bathing a bit tricky, it will ensure that she remains in the tub for the duration.
5. Wet your dog and then allow a few drops of shampoo to drop along your dog's back. Work the soap into the fur, moving down the sides of the body. Add a bit of water if necessary to help spread the shampoo. Make sure that you get all of the hard to reach areas, such as under the legs and between the toes.
6. Rinse your dog. Rinsing is much easier if you have a hand-held shower head. However, a cup dipped under running water will also work. Make sure that you get all of the soap out or it can irritate your dog's delicate skin.
7. Remove the cotton balls from your dogs ears and then prepare for some shaking. Stand up while quickly spreading a towel out in front of you, holding it just along the edge of the tub. This will deter your dog from jumping out while still sopping wet. Wait for the shake and then use the towel to dry your dog.

Tips & Warnings

• For large dogs, you may need two towels for a thorough drying.
• Keep your dog warm and indoors until completely dry.