Do you live in the countryside, take your dog for walks in the fields when it's wet, have a dog who likes to roll in the mud and have to wash your dog regularly? Do you live in an apartment and don't want to take him to a dog groomer? Whatever the reason, it's always good to know how to wash your dog properly. The technique is different with puppies than with large adult dogs, with short-haired and long-haired dogs, with dogs that are used to it or with those that are afraid of water, etc. Learn the right steps to keep your pooch silky and healthy!
When to wash your dog?
Dogs don't need to be showered every day as humans do. They generally clean themselves! But, in order to properly maintain your dog's coat and skin, a good wash from time to time may be necessary, especially if your dog loves to get himself dirty. Let's not forget that our canine companions live at ground level, where 80% of pollution and dirt is found. You can therefore wash your dog regularly if needed, as long as you use suitable products. It is in fact a good idea especially if your dog also lives in the house and can sit on the sofa or bed.
It also helps with keeping an eye on potential parasites such as fleas and ticks on your dog.
As a general rule, the frequency of shampoos varies according to different aspects:
- Where he lives and his lifestyle
- Breed
- Fur type
- Smell
- Health condition
And if your dog has skin problems, he may need more regular shampoos than normal.
If there is no particular need, a shampoo every two months is sufficient. Otherwise, it is advisable to wait 2 to 3 weeks between each shampoo, always with specific products for dogs. Indeed, excessive washing with unsuitable products can be dangerous for the health of your dog and cause dry skin and damage to his coat. This leads to skin problems, such as severe irritation, and you could easily fall into a vicious circle if your dog scratches too much.
For puppies, it is advisable to wait at least 3 months before the first bath. In case of extreme necessity, you can wash him from the age of 2 months with specific products for puppies, which will not damage his sensitive skin. Consider brushing as an alternative to bathing. You can also simply run him under warm water.
Which shampoo should you use to wash your dog?
Your dog has specific needs when it comes to shampoo. Sensitive skin? A thick layer of coarse hair? The ideal is to consult your vet to find out which shampoo is best suited to his age, breed, type of hair and coat.
Never use human shampoo to wash your dog!
Our canine friends have skin with a neutral pH. Their shampoos must therefore also have a neutral pH. You could harm him if you use your own shampoo, with an acidic pH.
Puppies, like older dogs, need to be washed with products that are less aggressive for the skin. From about 3 months, you can start using shampoos for adult dogs. Natural if possible!
Between two water baths, you can use shampoos or lotions that don't require rinsing in case your dog needs a little superficial cleaning. Also think about brushing, it is a simple and sometimes effective way to clean your dog's coat. Brushing allows your dog to have beautiful healthy skin as well as soft and shiny hair.
The more natural the shampoos, the more your dog will thank you. You can also make up your own shampoo based on essential oils, but with great care!
Washing your dog: the right steps
Here are some tips for washing your dog safely and without fear of traumatizing him.
Where to wash him?
In order to wash your dog yourself, you have several options:
- The bathroom bathtub
- The sink if you have a small dog
- A tub on your terrace or in your garden
If you wash your dog in the bathtub, think about using a small non-slip mat - this will reassure him and make washing easier for you! Do not close the bathtub or the sink with the stopper, the water must be able to flow.
If your dog is very relaxed and happy when being washed, you can consider washing him outside, in the open air when it is warm enough. This will save you from cleaning the bathroom!
How to wash him?
Firstly make sure that the water temperature is not too hot nor too cold, to avoid getting him burnt or feeling uncomfortable, which would make it difficult to convince him to carry on with the bath!
Wet him entirely first, then apply dog shampoo. Then gently scrub his entire body and be very careful not to get it in his eyes or ears, which, aside from being very unpleasant, can actually be dangerous. Shampoo and water that have gotten in the ears can cause irritation or even infections.
The ideal way to effectively wash him is to use a wash cloth or a grooming brush, depending on the type of hair your dog has. Always remember to brush long-haired dogs before washing them.
Once shampooed, ensure to rinse your dog thoroughly, including on the underneath, as remains of shampoo can cause itchiness.
Drying your dog
After bathing, make sure to dry your dog with one or more towels. Then, it's up to you whether you prefer to let him dry outdoors or with the window open - don't hesitate in summer - or with a hair dryer.
We recommend avoiding the dryer as much as possible because dogs are often afraid of it and you risk burning them. If you use the hair dryer, remember to put it on a cool setting. If you live in a place where it is generally cold, get him used to the dryer as young as possible so that it is not scary for him. Remember to reward him after the bath and the drying!
How to wash a dog that is afraid of water?
If your dog is afraid of water, you will have difficulty giving him baths. Is it really necessary? If so, go slowly. You can start by putting him in the bathtub, without water, and playing with him. Take his favourite toys and make a fuss of him. Then run the water little by little and make sure that the bathtub does not fill up. Never force him or get impatient with him. Continue to cuddle him while you wash him by rubbing very gently. Finally, reward him with a treat at the end of the session.
To avoid this kind of problem, get your dog used to water from a young age. That's why even if you can't wash him before 3 months, you can still put him under water from time to time.
