Puppy Bath Time

Unless your puppy is a small, short-coated breed, it's easier to take him to a groomer who has all the facilities for bathing, drying and grooming afterwards. Dogs usually only need bathing when they get dirty and smelly, such as when they’ve rolled in something unpleasant or taken a dip in a muddy waterway.

Be Careful

Never bath a dog with a matted coat as it will make the tangles worse. Groom the tangle out, or clip it off, first. Bathing too often will strip the coat and skin of natural oils and make them dry. Do not use human shampoos and conditioners as the chemicals in these can prove injurious to dogs, either through absorption through the skin or by causing skin and eve irritation.

Bath Time Checklist

• Bath, sink or large container outside (on a warm day)

• Shower attachment, plastic jug or hose with tepid water

• Rubber mat for secure footing

• Dog shampoo and conditioner

• Towels for drying

• Brush and comb for grooming

• Hairdryer

How To Bath Your Dog

1. Groom your dog first with a brush or comb to remove any tangles or matted fur. Soak the dog thoroughly with tepid water, getting right down to the skin.

2. Work in shampoo, massaging your dog all over, but being careful not to get soap or water in his eyes and ears. Rinse thoroughly and apply dog conditioner.

3. Rinse out all traces of conditioner (although you can get leave-in ones), until the water runs clear.

4. Skim off excess water from the coat with your hands, then dry your dog well. lf it is a warm day, allow him to dry naturally, otherwise use a hairdryer on a low setting, being careful not to get too close and burn him with hot air.

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