Dog

Most people have one of two opinions about dog bathing. Some believe that dogs only need to be washed every year or so. Others believe that they should bathe their pets once a month.

Bathing is really good for dogs, but it may cause problems if you do it too much.

That’s because all dogs have oils in their fur and skin, the same way as people do. Wash your dog too often and his skin will dry out. Your dog will itch, and may scratch and create sores. Remember there there are benefits to retaining the natural oils. They protect the skin from its own bacteria, for instance.

You can make bathtime fun for both you and your dog. Just be sure to take care about a few things and your chances of success go way up.

1. Take care of your dog’s ears. Infections can occur when soap and water are able to enter the ear canal. This may be temporary, but it could also do some real damage. Infections harm the ear drum, leading to possible deafness. Not sure if your dog has an ear infection? He might if you see him shaking his head a lot, or if there’s a discharge from the ear.

To make sure that this doesn’t occur, all you need to do is use cotton balls to stop your dog’s ears. Never force these into the ear canal - just place them securely at the entrance of the ear, keeping water out. Once the bath is over, dry the ears to keep moisture out - a finger wrapped in a cloth works well. If you decide to use a cotton swab, make sure you don’t put it too deeply into the ear canal, since it could damage the ear drum.

2. Make sure you use the right shampoo. Products made for people are irritating, harsh, and full of scents your dog may be allergic to. Dog shampoo protects your pet’s skin and fur.

3. How often you bathe your dog should depend in part on what breed he is. Longer haired dogs need more washing than shorter haired breeds. If you have a hairy dog, like a spaniel, baths should be scheduled once every two months or so. Different breeds may go as long as six to eight months. If your dog spends lots of time outside, he’ll get dirty more quickly, so pay attention to this.

Start your dog off the right way when it comes to bathing - patience and compassion are extremely important. Scaring your dog will make the entire process more difficult. Dogs enjoy being wet, and may enjoy running into lakes and rivers or having water sprinkled on them.

If you can, set up your bath outside. Encourage your pet to run through or sit in it. Use toys to distract your dog from the water. Once he’s calmed down a little, start the bath. Some people put their pets on leashes to keep them from running away.

When you bathe your pet, get the shampoo, towel, soap and other tools together early, and avoid using the hose. Water from the garden hose is usually too cold. Use a bowl with water from the bath instead - it’ll be warmer.

If you show your dog that the bath is fun, you and your pet will both enjoy it and look forward to it.

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