Dog Grooming & Bathing Techniques

A refreshing bath soothes and calms a dog, especially on a sultry summer day. Special grooming and bathing techniques make a dog owner's job easier when coaxing your pet in and out of the tub. Many dogs require weekly brushing and a monthly shampoo, but consult your vet, because thick-coated animals require fewer baths. Too frequent washings can lead to dry skin. One reliable telltale sign that your canine needs a bath is when he starts to smell "doggy."

  1. Anxiety

    • Use sensitivity with your dog if she turns skittish toward bathing, particularly if she is new to your household and unfamiliar with the routine. Establishing a positive experience helps her relax during her next bath, so be generous with tiny morsels of treats. Invite a friend to assist you if your pet might break loose and dash. Let your dog listen to the water running and sniff your accessories to acquaint her with the process. Avoid using human hair driers that could frighten animals.

    Preparations

    • Take some steps before you lift your fuzzy-faced companion into the tub to avoid ever leaving a dog unattended. Assemble your supplies and towels so that everything is within an easy reach. Remove bottle caps in advance so you can keep your grip on your canine instead of having to fumble with container tops. Trim his nails so he doesn't scratch your tub surface or floor. Step into some old clothes or a smock in anticipation of spraying water.

    Tangles

    • Before shampooing, brush your dog's fur to remove tangles that might not unsnarl when wet. For badly matted dog fur, reach for the scissors but avoid nicking your dog's skin. Soften and remove sticky substances like paint or tar with petroleum jelly or vegetable oil, says the Partnership for Animal Welfare (PAW) Rescue website. Soak difficult tangles up to 24 hours. Some pet owners recommend Dawn dish detergent whenever a dog's coat becomes sticky or oily.

    Shampoo

    • Large dogs usually fit inside a normal shower stall and smaller canines can be lifted into your kitchen sink along with a shower hose. Or, bathe your dog outside if the weather is warm. Wet her fur with lukewarm water to rinse away excess hair. Experiment with different varieties of pet shampoos, such as oatmeal, tea tree or antibacterial solutions. Pour 1/2 cup of vinegar into a small bucket and fill with water to dilute. Rinse your dog with this solution to cut through any soapy residue.