Advice for bathing your dog

Though dogs do not need baths as frequently as humans, they do require a certain amount of maintenance. Your bathing routine will vary, based on your type of dog and lifestyle. If your dog spends most of his time indoors, he will need less frequent baths. However a dog who spends a great deal of his life outdoors, rolling and playing in the dirt and grass, may need more frequent baths. Regardless of your schedule, here are some tips for keeping your dog fresh and clean.

Typically, you will only need to bathe your dog once a month. If he is especially dirty, you may opt for two baths a month. However the more often you bathe your dog, the drier his skin will be. Choose a proper canine shampoo. Human shampoos may be too harsh and drying to your dog’s coat. Even when using a dog shampoo, try to pick a mild formula that is suitable for dogs with sensitive skin. Avoid shampoos full of chemicals and synthetic ingredients.

Try to designate a time and space where you can bathe your dog uninterrupted. The fewest distractions, the better your dog will probably behave. Always be sure to have an abundance to towels within reach because bathing dogs can be very messy. It is often best to use a cup to pour the water over your dog. Be careful to avoid your dog’s eyes and ears. Some people recommend placing cotton balls in the ears to prevent water in the ear canal. However be very careful to use a big enough cotton ball so that it does not slip down into the ear. Always be sure to check the temperature of the water before putting your dog in it, or it on your dog. And take great care to rinse thoroughly so as to prevent irritation of the skin.

Whatever your current bathing schedule, be sure you are including enough brushing and other grooming for your dog. It is important to brush your dog frequently, to keep his skin moisturized and his coat clean and shiny. It is also important to brush your dog before bathing, to remove surface dirt and hair mattes. Brushing your dog also provides an opportunity to look for any parasites or other skin disorders.