Easy Dog Washing
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by Suzy - Online Dog Coach
By following these tips you and your dog will have a more enjoyable experience and maybe you won’t get as wet!
Use a non-slip bath mat or rug stop.- Check water temperature by running it over your forearm like you would for a baby. Dogs are sensitive to high temperature.
- Hold the sprayer close to your dog’s fur and work the water in with your other hand.
- Start by wetting your dog’s feet and working up.
- Use shampoos designed for dogs, or a gentle baby shampoo. Designer shampoos irritate your dog’s sensitive skin and may cause a severe reaction.
- Use a rubber curry brush to work the soap into the fur and remove loose hair.
- Place cotton balls in your dog’s ears to prevent water from entering the ear canal.
- Wash your dog’s head last. When it remains dry, your dog is less likely to shake water onto you.
- Avoid the eyes and nose. Use a washcloth for these areas if possible.
- Encourage your dog to shake off excess water by blowing on his face. Hold up a towel to block some of the spray.
- Use absorbent beach towels to dry your dog as much as possible.
- Supervise your dog until he is perfectly dry. There is nothing your dog loves more than to roll in dirt when he is still wet.
Bonus Tips
Find a self-service dog wash facility. They often supply the tools you need, the tub is raised so you won’t have to bend over, and you won’t have to clean up the fur afterwords.
- Shop around for a reasonable fee – some facilities charge extra for shampoo or dryers.
- Ask about dog steps if you have a large dog so you don’t have to lift.
- Keep fees low for everyone by mopping up excess water and throwing away the large clumps of fur.
- Most facilities include a blower. You need to desensitize your dog to the sound and feel of a dryer before forcing it upon him.
- When using a grooming table for the first time, bring along a friend help to hold your dog. Many dogs are afraid of the height. If the table wobbles, don’t use it.
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About the Author
Suzy has had dogs as companions for over 30 years. She trained her own dog, Kalee, in agility and has just begun rally. Kalee competed and earned titles in UKC, NADAC and USDAA agility before retiring in 2007. Suzy is a children’s librarian, educating children since 1999 and adults since 1995, and is beginning her own education in behavioral science.