Generally, most animals only benefit from a bath when they are dirty. However, our pet dogs can really benefit from a cooling dip or swim, especially in hot weather. It’s important that you train your dog to get used to bathing as early as possible. A warning though, too much bathing can actually strip the natural oils from your dog’s coat.

When should I bathe my dog?
Generally, it’s time for a bath when your dog begins to smell unpleasant, or if you spot any sores or matted hair. If your dog has been swimming near any toxic sprays or oils, you’ll have to give him a bath.

What do I need to bathe my dog?
It’s a good idea to make sure that your dog is healthy by giving him a thorough inspection before bathing. Be sure to look out for lumps and bumps. Your dog’s coat should be brushed and combed to remove any foreign bodies.

You should consult your veterinarian as to which shampoo is the better choice for your dog. To avoid allergic reactions, it’s recommended that you choose a mild, all-round dog shampoo, which is free of harsh chemicals or colognes. Also remember not to use human shampoo, due to the fact that your dog’s hair and your skin differ in acidity. Prepare a suitable tub or a big plastic bucket to bathe your dog in. Make sure to line it with non-slip mats. Once everything is ready, fill your bath with warm water and put your dog in. For the owners of large dogs, it may be easier to wet and bathe your dogs outside.

How to bathe your dog
Once you have wet your dog, apply a small amount of shampoo. Be careful that this does not enter your dog’s eyes or ears. Continue to wash your dog, right up until its tail. Make sure you don’t forget to do its belly and neck. When rinsing off, use warm water, making sure to avoid the eyes and ears again. Use your hands in order to ensure the soap runs off.

Drying your beloved dog
Your dog will normally wipe its head, neck and body on any available ground, especially grass, after having a good soap and rinse. This is a normal habit that all dogs have. Try to have some towels ready beforehand, and encourage your dog to use them instead. Dogs normally wish to shake off surplus water themselves, so don’t forget to take your dog out of the bath, or you might get a bath too. After your dog has finished shaking off surplus water, give him a good rubdown from head to toe with a towel. You could also use a hairdryer on some willing dogs.

How to deal with a reluctant bather
For some dogs, having a bath can be a stressful and frightening experience. Because of this, you will need to take care against getting bitten. If your dog has a history of biting, you should use a muzzle. Sometimes, your dog may be scared but not aggressive. The best way to deal with them is to encourage and commend them during their bath. Treats of food can be used to help calm them.

It is very important that you ease your dog into the habit of regular baths. In some cases, you may want to take the tub outside so your dog has more space and will not feel threatened.