How to Bathe Your Dog at Home
How to Bathe Your Dog at Home
Regularly bathing your dog not only removes their body odor, prevents hair matting and the growth of pathogens, but also ensures the health of your family. It has many benefits. If you want to bathe your dog at home, there are many things you need to know, because bathing a dog is not as simple as rinsing with water and drying.
1. Bathing Frequency
Water baths are not recommended for puppies under 6 months as their immunity is weak, and they can easily catch a cold from bathing. However, if you feel your dog smells very strong or is very dirty, you can use dry shampoo for them. For dogs over 6 months, bathe 3-4 times a month in summer, twice a month in spring and autumn, and once a month in winter.
2. Preparations Before Bathing
Many owners don’t know to brush their dog before bathing. The benefit is to avoid hair matting after the bath. While brushing, owners can also check for parasites or skin injuries, which should be treated first if found.
3. Water Temperature
Dogs prefer water temperatures between 37-40℃; do not pour water on them suddenly. Give the dog a gradual adjustment process.
4. Bathing Order
Wet the dog in the order of paws, hips, back, belly, hind legs, shoulders, and front legs. If the dog resists or is anxious, comfort them appropriately. Avoid getting water in the dog’s eyes and ears. After wetting, massage the dog with pet shampoo. When rinsing shampoo, hold the dog’s ears to prevent water from entering the ear canal.
5. Drying
Dry the dog immediately after bathing, especially in winter. You can first use a towel to dry the body, then use a hairdryer. Be sure the hairdryer temperature is suitable—not too hot or too cold.
6. Anal Gland Cleaning
You don’t have to clean the dog’s anal glands every time, but if the dog bites its tail or rubs its bottom, you must clean the glands during the bath.
Of course, if you find these tasks troublesome, you can just take them regularly to the pet hospital!
