When to Bathe Your Dog

If your dog loves to play outside, then you know that the cleanup process is never quite as fun for dogs as getting dirty seems to be. Here are a few stress-relieving tips and techniques to try the next time Fido is due for a wash:

Timing

• How often you should wash your dog largely depends on the breed and the level of activity of each dog. For example, if your pet spends most of the day outdoors, frequent baths may be necessary.
• A bath once a month is a good rule of thumb for most breeds.
• Bathing your dog too often could cause skin dryness, leading to scratching and irritation.

Before a Bath

When it comes to bathing, trust is the name of the game for most pets. While some dogs may enjoy the bathing experience, there’s a chance that your dog may need some adjustment before getting in the tub. Try letting your him or her get accustomed to the sound of running water, and using calm behavior and treats to reinforce bath time as a positive experience.

During the Bath

• Temperature: Make sure the water is warm, but not too hot. Splash some on your wrist to test the temperature.
• Protect Eyes and Nose: When shampooing your dog’s face and upper body, gently cover the eyes and nose with your hands to avoid soap irritation.
• Wash Neck to Toe: Start by washing your dog’s upper body, then go down each leg, moving toward the rear.

For more dog-friendly tips and tricks, check the Australia Pet Doors blog each week. You can also stop by our online store, which offers sleek dog doors and cat flaps for any room of the home. For more info, call 0414 922 751.