How to Wash a Greasy Dog

Whether your dog has naturally oily fur or has gotten into a greasy mess, removing the grease is important to the cleanliness and condition of your dog's coat. A greasy coat can cause skin to get dirty and become itchy, which is uncomfortable for your dog. Supplies that are safe for your dog and effective at removing excess grease help restore cleanliness and freshness so the grease isn't transferred to your furniture or carpet.

Things You'll Need

  • Children's pool (optional)
  • Bucket (optional)
  • Dog shampoo
  • Dishwashing detergent
  • Sponge
  • Washcloth
  • Towels
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill your bathtub or a small children's pool with warm water. Wet your dog's coat with a hand-held shower nozzle or by pouring water from a bucket over the fur.

    • 2

      Pour a quarter-sized amount of dog shampoo in the palm of your hand and add a nickel-sized amount of dishwashing detergent. Rub your hands together to mix the two soaps together.

    • 3

      Apply the shampoo and dish detergent to your dog's fur beginning with the back and working the lather down over the rest of the fur with a wet sponge. Mix more of the solution for a larger dog or one with a thicker coat. Dog shampoo has the proper pH balance for cleaning dog fur and the detergent helps remove excess grease.

    • 4
      Washcloths safely clean your dog's face.

      Use a washcloth to wash around your dog's face and ears. Avoid getting water or shampoo in your dog's ears or eyes by using the washcloth to shampoo and rinse the fur on the face.

    • 5

      Rinse your dog's fur with clear water until squeaky clean. Don't use the same water you used for washing as you will be pouring the grease and dirt back onto your dog's clean fur.

    • 6

      Towel dry your dog without rubbing too hard, which can irritate the skin.