How to Rid a Dog of Bad Odor

While you love your dog, a stinky dog is not pleasant to be around. A bath is usually enough to sweeten the smell of your dog. Ridding your pooch of unpleasant odor by giving him a thorough bath involves several steps that will likely improve your relationship with your canine companion.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog comb or brush
  • Mineral oil
  • Laundry tub or bathtub
  • Rubber mat
  • Pitcher (optional)
  • Detachable spray nozzle (optional)
  • Tethers
  • Dog shampoo
  • Washcloth
  • Towels
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Instructions

  1. Before Bathing

    • 1

      Comb and brush out all mats in your dog's coat. Doing this will prevent the water from turning the mats into solid masses, which may require using clippers to remove.

    • 2

      Apply a drop of mineral oil or petroleum jelly around your dog's eyes to protect them from the suds. To do this, deposit the oil or jelly on a washcloth or sponge and gently wipe the area around the eyes. In addition, place a drop of mineral oil in the eyes to protect them from suds. The most common way to apply the mineral oil is to hug your dog under his chin so that you are in a spot to look into his eyes. Administer the oil on the side of the eye, so it will seep inward.

    • 3

      Walk your dog to the place you chose as a suitable location for the bath. Depending on the size of your pooch, a small laundry tub may be acceptable. Larger dogs may need to be bathed in a bathtub or outside. A detachable spray nozzle can make bathing your dog much easier. If you do not have access to one, pour water from a pitcher. Place a rubber mat into the tub to protect the surface from your dog's nails.

    • 4

      Fill the tub. Use a pitcher, faucet or hose to fill the tub with warm (not hot) water to the level of your dog's knees.

    The Bath

    • 5

      Tether your dog to the tub to make it easier to bathe him. You can purchase bathing tethers at your local pet supply store and are attached to the tub using a suction cup. Clip the tethers to your dog's collar and attach them to the suction cup. The tethers will keep your dog still.

    • 6

      Pour the warm water over your dog using the pitcher or the detachable spray nozzle. Start with the legs, back and shoulders. If you use the spray nozzle, use a low setting and hold it gently against the coat so that the spray does not scare him. Be gentle and work through the body gradually. Once he has calmed down, move on to the head. Never spray a dog in the face. Instead, slightly lift his head with your free hand so that the water runs down the back on his head and neck.

    • 7

      Apply the shampoo. Start by applying a line along his back and neck. Massage the suds throughout the entire coat, adding small amounts of shampoo if needed. Use the washcloth or sponge to move the soap around to hard-to-reach areas, such as the face and between the toes.

    • 8

      Rinse the shampoo from your dog's coat. Using warm water from the pitcher or the spray nozzle, rinse following the direction of the dog's coat until the water runs clear.

    After the Bath

    • 9

      Drain the excess water from the tub by removing the stopper.

    • 10

      Squeeze the excess water from your dog's fur using your hands. Start by squeezing water from the tail and paws, and work upward. Be prepared for a big shake as your dog tries removing the water from his fur on his own.

    • 11

      Wrap your dog in a large, absorbent towel. Gently rub him dry. If his coat is long, avoid heavy rubbing as this could tangle the fur. Use a gentle blotting motion for longer coats. Keep your dog away from drafts or cool air as he is drying.