Quick Tips for Bathing your Dog

The earlier you get your dog acquainted with bathing, the better, especially if you are going to be bathing your dog in your tub. If you have ever bathed a dog before, you know you get just as wet as your dog, if not wetter, and the first thing your dog wants to do when the bath is over is to shake off and run around crazy like they have just been renewed. Some unfortunately, if left to run outdoors, find the first dirt spot they can roll in and you are back at it again. Sounds so much like kids! Here are a few tips that might make the bathing experience for both you and your dog a little more pleasant.

Brush your dog thoroughly and remove any mats before washing.

Use vet-prescribed ophthalmic mineral oil or a drop of eye ointment to protect his eyes, and cotton balls to gently plug his ears.

Be prepared for the occasional shake off during the bath, and the occasional attempt to escape the tub.

Have old towels on your bathroom floor. It will save in clean up and slippery wet floors.

Dress to get soaked!

If it is warm out, consider doing an outside tubby!

Before attempting to bath your pet, have the tub filled with warm water no deeper then an inch or so above his hocks.

Use a sponge or your hands and lather your dog using only dog shampoo. I have noticed dogs feel safer if you use your hands, as they are more comfortable and familiar with your touch.

If your dog has a specific problem, such as an extra oily coat, you may need to use a medicated shampoo.

Work the shampoo into his fur from head to tail, paying special attention to known flea hangout spots such as the neck and in between the toes.

Your dog will more than likely try to drink the bath water however, keep the soapy water away from his mouth.

If you know how, bath time is the perfect time for empting the anal sacs.

Rinse your dog after first shampoo and repeat. After second time around, make sure you rinse out all shampoo residue to prevent drying of the skin.

Have a great time towel drying your baby. Make sure to have plenty towels available to do so. He/se will be soaked and you will be surprised by how much water their hair holds.

Don’t bathe your dog too frequently. Once or twice a month is ample, possibly less depending on your dog’s coat. Too often can lead to a dry, brittle coat and scaly, flaky skin.

If your dog runs into a skunk, there is odor-removal products available intended to get rid of the strong odor, but you may still be left with the lingering scent for a few weeks. Best bet is to do as you would any person sprayed by a skunk – bathe your dog in tomato juice first and then follow with a canine friendly odor-removal product.


The main purpose of Doggie-Corral.com is to provide dog owners with an entire line of dog supplies needed to care for their beloved pets. We ship to the entire United States and provide a one stop shopping experience. We offer dog-training aids, dog insurance, health care essentials, dog apparel (e.g. dog shirts, Dog Pro sports apparel, dog boots, dog coats, dog College Sports apparel, dog blankets, dog sweaters, dog pajamas),dog beds, plastic and wood doghouses, dog crates and kennels, dog toys, dog chews, dog treats, dog and puppy foods, dog grooming products and more. Feel free to check us out at Doggie-Corral.com.

We would also love to have you connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.
Doggie-Corral on Facebook
Doggie-Corral on Twitter