How to Wash a Large Dog
Keeping your dog clean is a big part of being a good pet owner. Many people prefer to take their dog to the groomer--especially if it is a large breed. However, for those of us who are watching our budgets or simply don't trust our pets in a stranger's hands, at-home bathing is the way to go.
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Things You'll Need
- Dog shampoo Dog treats Bucket OR Cup OR Removable shower head Bath towels
Instructions
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1
Prepare your bathroom. Remove anything in the room you would rather not get wet. Put your dog shampoo on or next to the bathtub. Dog treats should also be within reach of the bathtub, as well as a small bucket or large cup if you do not have a removable shower head on a hose. Lay a couple of towels close by, too.
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2
Prepare yourself! You will get wet and you will also probably get shampoo on your clothes, so be sure you are wearing something you do not mind messing up.
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Put your dog in the tub. If he will not get in, try standing in the bathtub yourself and giving the "come" command. Help the dog if he has trouble. Another good trick is to show your dog a treat and then throw it into the tub. If all else fails, pick the dog up and put him in the bathtub yourself.
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Get the dog wet. Dogs who are not used to being bathed may begin to get nervous at this point in the process. That is why you have the treats. Dole them out as needed while talking to your dog in a soothing manner to keep her calm.
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Apply the shampoo as instructed on the bottle. Massage it into your pet's coat very thoroughly. Do not neglect any part of your dog's body.
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Rinse the dog. Be sure you have gotten all of the shampoo out of his fur. Any left behind may cause itching and skin irritation later. Start from your dog's head and work your way down his body.
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Towel-dry your dog. Get her as dry as possible before letting her out of the bathtub. Do NOT use a hair dryer.
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Tips & Warnings
The bathing process becomes very messy when your dog decides to shake himself dry. To cut down on this natural reaction, be as careful as possible not to get water in your dog's ears. Stay calm and cheerful. This will be a more stressful experience for your dog than it will be for you. The more friendly and soothing you are, the easier this task will be. Dogs shed a lot when they are being bathed. It is a good idea to brush your dog thoroughly before giving her a bath.
