How to Bathe a Shedding Dog

The majority of dog breeds shed so, with the exception of wire-haired dogs such as poodles, most dogs will require the added grooming that comes with owning a shedding dog. The key to keep a shedding dog from becoming a matted dog is brushing. Brush your shedding breed of dog before and after every bath and in between bathing days as well to keep their coats in optimum shape.

Things You'll Need

• Warm water
• Dog shampoo
• Brush
• Towel
• Hair dryer

Instructions

1. Brush the dog thoroughly with a brush designed to reduce shedding. These brushes are made with long thin metal prongs. They can be purchased through online pet supply retailers and at most local pet shops. This type of brush may be a bit more expensive than other grooming tools but it is worth the cost. Shedding brushes are designed to draw loose hair out of a dog's undercoat.

2. Heat bath or shower water to a warm temperature, but not hot. A dog's skin is more sensitive than yours and hot water will be uncomfortable for him to withstand. Make the water just slightly warmer than room temperature. Place cotton balls in the dog's ears while the water is warming. This protects the ears from excess moisture. Water left in the dog's ear can lead to a painful ear infection, according to Larchmont, New York, veterinarian Dr. Larry Cohen.

   Place the dog in the bathtub carefully. If the dog is one of the larger breeds, it will take two people to lift him into a bathtub safely. Carelessly lifting a heavy dog can cause injury to you and to your canine friend.

3. Shampoo the dog according to directions on shampoo packaging. Use only shampoos that are meant for use on dogs. These can be purchased in most pet stores and many department stores. Shampoos created for use on humans or animals other than dogs may irritate your dog's skin. Work the shampoo deep into the coat with your fingers. Use this opportunity to give a nervous dog a light massage. This may calm dogs that do not like being bathed. Keep shampoo away from the dog's eyes, ears, nose and mouth.

4. Rinse the shampoo out of the dog's fur thoroughly. Once you think you have rinsed everything out, rinse one more time. Shampoo that is left in the fur can increase matting in long haired breeds and cause skin irritation and itching in any breed.

5. Remove the dog from the tub or shower and towel dry him as much as possible. Use a hairdryer to finish drying long thick fur that is resistant to towel drying. Use a warm (not hot) setting on the blow-dryer and keep it a safe distance of at least 18 inches from the dogs skin. Once again, brush the dog thoroughly to remove lose hair from the undercoat.

References

• Dr. Larry : Pet Vet