Do it Yourself Dog Wash

Washing a dog yourself allows you to use homemade dog shampoo.

Many pet owners avoid putting unnecessary chemicals on their dogs by using homemade dog washes. Homemade shampoo works just as well as the store-bought varieties. Flea shampoos often contain even more chemicals. The use of tea tree oil, for example, helps eliminate fleas without causing harm to your dog. Natural, safe ingredients also cut through dirt. Vinegar, for example, not only helps with odors, but also safely removes dirt, grim and grease from fur and skin.

Things You'll Need

• Bowl
• Glycerin
• Eucalyptus or tea tree oil
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• White distilled vinegar
• Spoon
• Small funnel
• Bottle with lid

Instructions

1. Pour 1/2 cup of glycerin slowly into a bowl. Pour 1 tbsp. of either eucalyptus or tea tree oil into the bowl. You only need to use one type of oil. The glycerin creates a lather while the oil soothes itchy skin. Tea tree oil helps with flea infestations, according to Molly's Herbals.

2. Pour 3 cups of white distilled vinegar into the bowl. Stir the ingredients together with a spoon.

3. Place a funnel in the opening of the bottle. Slowly pour the liquid through the funnel into the bottle. Remove the funnel once the bottle is full and screw on the lid.

4. Shake the shampoo for 10 seconds before using. The oil separates from the other liquids when it sits.

Tips & Warnings

• Start with about a quarter-size amount of shampoo at a time when washing the dog. Add more as needed.

References

• Molly's Herbals: Tea Tree Oil
• The Dog Biscuit: Homemade Dog Shampoos and Homemade Flea Shampoos