The Best Way to Give a Yorkie a Bath

Yorkshire terriers or Yorkies are toy dogs that were recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club in 1885. Yorkies are sociable dogs and they like the company of people. A Yorkie requires weekly baths and you should start bathing the dog as early as possible, so that it gets used to this treatment. The best way to give a Yorkie a bath is to keep it safe throughout the process and use products that don't irritate the dog.

Things You'll Need

  • Conditioner
  • Slicker brush
  • Mat comb or coat rake
  • De-matting spray
  • Cotton balls
  • Anti-slip mat
  • Towel or dryer
  • Treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare all the tools necessary for the bath. Yorkies are toy dogs and they need to be supervised while in the bathtub or the sink to prevent accidents.

    • 2

      Brush your Yorkie's long coat using a slicker brush to remove dead hair and tangles. If the Yorkie's coat is tangled apply de-matting spray, leave it on for 10 minutes and then use a mat comb or a coat rake to eliminate the tangles. Brushing and combing your Yorkie prior to a bath prevents the formation of knots, which may form if the dead hair is not removed.

    • 3

      Insert cotton balls in your Yorkie's ears to protect them during the bath. Yorkies are sensitive and if water is trapped in the ears, the area will be prone to infections.

    • 4

      Place your Yorkie in the tub or sink, on the non-slip mat. The dog should feel safe during the bath. Skidding is dangerous and makes the dog uneasy.

    • 5

      Wet the dog using lukewarm water. Check the temperature of the water before you use it, because the skin of Yorkies is sensitive and hot water can cause burns or irritation.

    • 6

      Apply gentle shampoo on your Yorkie's coat. Spread shampoo all over the coat, but perform only linear moves to prevent forming tangles. If you use circular moves knots can form.

    • 7

      Rinse the dog well and avoid getting water in the dog's eyes. Ensure you rinse the dog's belly. Lift its front paws to reach the hard-to-reach spots.

    • 8

      Apply conditioner on the coat. Make sure you rinse well, so no traces of shampoo or conditioner remain in the Yorkie's coat.

    • 9

      Dry the Yorkie in a towel and reward it with a treat. Alternatively, use a dryer, but make sure the air is not too hot for the Yorkie.