How to Speed Wash Your Dog
Posted by janelle
If
your dog hates water, you know that simply mentioning “bath time” will
send your pooch running to hide. Bathing your dog can be quite a chore,
especially if they are of a larger breed or tend to move around a lot.
Luckily, there are some techniques to help make washing your dog faster
and easier.
Be Prepared
Ensuring that you have the proper supplies nearby will prevent a wet
dog from jumping out of the tub while you run off to grab the shampoo.
Be sure to gather lots of towels, a sponge, and a dog shampoo. You may
also need dog conditioner, a cup, and treats. Try to choose a shampoo
that is formulated for your dog’s needs in order to make the washing
process easier. Some breeds may also need an ear wash to help dry their
ears after bathing. Be sure to also choose clothes for yourself that
can get wet, as it can be quite difficult to stop a wet dog from
shaking! It is suggested to give your dog a good brushing before getting
them wet. This will remove any loose hair or fur, as well as any
tangles or matting. Don’t forget to remove your dog’s collar and tags
prior to bathing.
The Bathing Process
Use the cup to pour lukewarm water over your dog, paying particular
attention to the legs and belly. Be careful when wetting the dog’s
head; cover his eyes and let the water run gently down his snout. Next,
pour some shampoo into your hands and rub them together to develop some
lather. Starting at your dog’s shoulders, rub the shampoo into the fur
until you reach the tip of the tail. You can use a sponge to wash your
dog if it is easier. Begin rinsing the dog’s fur using the cup from
before. Make sure that you get all the soap off, as even a small amount
of soap residue can trigger an allergic reaction. Condition your dog’s
fur following the directions on the conditioner bottle if desired.
Drying Off
Place a few towels on the floor before allowing your dog to get out
of the tub, as they will be inclined to shake. Starting with the head,
towel dry your pooch thoroughly. Using a hair dryer will help to speed
up the drying process. Tip: Always set the hair dryer on a low setting
initially to avoid scaring your dog.
Try a Self-Serve Dog Wash
If there is a self-serve dog wash in your neighborhood, you may want
to try it as this is a speedier way to wash your dog. Dog washes are
set up with grooming tables and raised dog baths so that you can wash
and groom your dog while standing. This can be more comfortable than
bathing your dog at home, and it requires no clean-up on your part. You
will be surprised at how much faster you can bathe your dog with the
proper equipment.
Bathing your pooch doesn’t
always have to be a chore. Follow these tips for a clean, happy pup!
