4 Things You Should Know Before You Start Bathing Your Dog

Do you bathe your pup yourself? It can be tedious and messy, but it’s also a very important part of canine hygiene, so you need to know the best ways to clean your pup.

Here are four facts about dog baths that you may not have known about!

1. There is such a thing as too much

Shampoos are designed to remove oil and grease, so shampooing too often can cause dry and irritated skin. Make sure you consider your pup’s fur type and activity level when deciding how often to shampoo.

2. It can be a hazard

Water that gets into a pup’s ears during bathing can result in ear infections, so make sure to dry their ears after a bath. There are also some products that can help dry out ears after swimming or showers. Never intentionally put water in a pup’s ear! Read up on proper ear care here.

3. Shampoos are different

Dog shampoos have different compositions depending on what they’re for. Some have ingredients to fight oil, some are meant to kill parasites, and some can fend of fungi and bacteria. Read the ingredients on shampoo before purchasing, and speak to your vet about what ingredients are needed for you pup’s coat.

4. It can be fun!

Not all pups like baths, but you can train them to love them if you’re patient. Use water that is at a comfortably warm temperature and don’t use hoses or sprayers with high pressure; a cup or dipper can work just fine if your pup is frightened of high water pressure. Of course, keep some high-value treats nearby and reward your pup with them if they cooperate!

If you’re unsure about how to bathe your pup, talk to your vet or groomer. If your pup has a skin condition, you should never embark on a bathing regimen or use shampoos that are not approved by your vet. If you notice your pup having a negative reaction to the way you bathe them, speak to a vet before continuing. Like and share this so other pup parents can learn, too!