How to Bathe an English Bulldog

Like all dogs, English Bulldogs will get dirty and need to bathed on a fairly regular basis. This breed can be very allergy prone and easily develop dry, itchy skin so it is important to know the proper way to bathe this breed. Additionally, proper bathing should help reduce the amount of hair your dog sheds.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Hypo-allergenic, soap-free shampoo
• Rubber bristled dog brush
• Measuring cup
• Water

How to Bathe an English Bulldog

1. Consult with your veterinarian about the proper shampoo to use on your English Bulldog and how often you want to bathe it. It's important not to over-bathe your dog.

2. Purchase the shampoo at your local pet store. Our veterinarian recommended Natural Care Soothing Hypo-Allergenic Shampoo. It's soap-free so it should not wash away flea treatment if used properly.

3. Decide where to bathe your dog, whether in your bathtub, sink or outside. Set up the bathing area and clear away any items that you want out of your dog's reach. Have a towel ready to dry your dog when you are finished.

4. Brush your dog with a rubber-bristled brush to remove any excess hair before bathing.

5. Use lukewarm water to thoroughly wet your dog's coat.

6. Follow the directions on the shampoo bottle to know how much shampoo to use. Lather and massage your dog's coat for several minutes. Make sure to avoid the eyes. When your dog is completely lathered start rinsing with lukewarm water. Make sure to rinse thoroughly for at least 5 minutes to ensure that all the shampoo is washed off.

7. Rub a towel up and down your dog's coat to dry it.

Tips & Warnings

• Bathing can be a stressful event for some dogs, so make sure to remain calm and use a soothing tone of voice to help them stay calm.
• You may want to reward your dog with a bone when the bath is finished.
• Your dog may snap or try to bite you, especially if a hair dryer is used.