How often should my dog have a bath?

Bath Time

Cleanliness and proper grooming can be very important to the continued good health of our beloved pets. But bathing our puppy or adult dog can often prove to be a challenge.

There are many questions, myths and opinions floating around when discussing the best care for different dog types and

temperaments. Check out these dog bathing tips to get some great ideas so you'll be prepared for your dog bath and grooming session.



How often should you bath your dog?



How often your pet will need a dog bath will depend on the breed and what type of activities the dog is
involved in. It's best to bathe your dog only when your dog is really dirty. Just use your nose - that
tell tale doggy smell will let you know it's time for a bath.

If a dog is bathed too often the skin will be stripped of its natural, protective oils. This will result in dry itchy skin, which will cause your dog to scratch, further irritating the already sensitive skin. If you need to bathe your dog more frequently make sure to use a pet shampoo that will also moisturize your dog's skin. You may also want tofollow up with an after bath pet coat conditioner specifically formulated for dry skin.

Where's the best place to bath your dog?

In warm weather you can bathe your dog outside. Pick a place that will not turn to mud when it gets wet.
It's a good idea a have a washtub large enough for your dog to stand up in and fill it with a few
inches of water. Water straight from a garden hose may start off warm, but usually gets cold very fast.

If your dog starts to resist and shiver, as the water gets colder, you may want to consider another option.






Many pet owners have overcome this problem by purchasing a raised dog bath. This convenient,
back-saving dog bath is often used with a water temperature mixer valve assembly that completely
solves this problem. With the proper equipment set up you'll be able to save your back and control the
water temperature of your dog's bath. Some temperature mixer valve assemblies hook up to your
existing washing machine water supply. At bath timejust connect an ordinary garden hose to the valve
assembly and run it outside to the bathing area.

This convenient type of back-saving dog bath can even be used for bathing your dog inside.
If you choose to bathe your dog inside, regulating the water temperature shouldn't be a problem. But
deciding where to bathe your dog might be. Small dogs and puppies can usually be bathed easily in a
sink or a washtub. For bigger dogs you will need something bigger like a bathtub or a large shower
stall. And of course, the bigger your dog is the bigger the potential hassles.

Are you tired of chasing and wrestling with your dog at bath time?
Many dog owners solve this problem by purchasing a raised dog bath. An ergonomically designed dog
grooming bathing tub elevates your dog to a level that's comfortable for you and keeps your dog
securely contained, taking the hassle out of washing your dog. You'll get the job done in half the time,
save your back and stay dryer. The raised dog bath that is available in most pet shops and online
stores will also save your dog stress at bath time.

No more slipping and sliding. Your dog will really feel secure standing on the padded non-slip surface.
This type of raised dog bath has been recommended by Dog World Magazine in their "Notable Products for
the New Millennium".

Does your dog tend to get away from you during a bath?

Bathing your dog is a challenging, but essential, part of dog grooming. It's funny how your dog will
cleverly evade you when you try to get him into a dog bath, but will be just as determined to get past
you when you don't want him to jump into the water at the beach.
If you're washing your dog in a room with a door make sure to close it so that your dog will not see
an escape route or get very far if he prematurely gets out of the bath. This way you'll have an easier
time getting him back in the tub to finish the job.
It can be a challenge bathing a dog that's wiggling around but the challenge gets a little tougher when
your dog is an escape artist. If your dog takes any opportunity to get away from you at bath time you
may want to consider restraining your dog.

Restraints are used during bath time to avoid injuryto you as well as your pet. Some pet bathing tubs
come with restraints included. With these your dog will be safely and securely restrained and you will
be able to give your dog a quick and hassle-free bath.

Is your dog slipping and sliding in the bath?
Slipping and sliding can be the most stressful part of bath time for a dog. Put a rubber mat down on the
bottom surface of the tub to prevent your dog from sliding and getting hurt. A sure-footed dog will be
less resistant and much more at ease during bath time.

Things to have on hand at bath time:
Raised Dog Bath - This is a fantastic idea for a dog bath. It's ergonomically designed for both you and
your dog's comfort. Your local pet groomer is likely to have just such a bathing station set up in their
shop. If you're thinking about buying a tub or basin to bathe your dog in, ask them if you can check out
their tub set up. If you have the room or more than one dog, you may find it worthwhile.



Pet Shower or Plastic Pitcher

A Pet Shower is great, but if that's not possible make sure you have a large plastic pitcher for wetting and rinsing your dog.

Drain Screen - Make sure to protect your plumbing from hair clogs with a simple to use drain screen.

Cotton Balls - Can be placed in each ear to prevent water from running into your dog's ears.

Pet Shampoos - There are many different pet shampoos each formulated to work on problems such as dry

itchy skin, inflamed or dry scaling skin, fleas