My Bestfriend

My pug Rama used to hate bath times. He would scamper away and hide under the stairs or a table when he hears me call his name for his weekly baths. Taking him to the tub was an ordeal, and sometimes he would even jump out of the tub and create a wet mess all over the house. My friend and dog enthusiast, Shaun Olmstead, says this is normal behavior for dogs. But learning the proper way to bath your dog can solve this problem. With Shaun’s tips, Rama’s bath times are less stressful. He may still not like the bath, but he’s easier to manage.

Ideally, most dogs should be bathed monthly, but bathing as often as once a week is not considered harmful. Never use human bath products for your dog. Always use a soap-free shampoo that is intended for dogs. Consult your vet as he can recommend the best bath products for your pooch depending on the condition of his skin and coat. Be sure to follow your veterinarian’s instructions about bathing.

Before you begin bathing your dog, choose the location and gather all the necessary supplies. You don’t want your dog to be soggy and shivering on the tub while you look for his bottle of shampoo. A tub is usually the easiest place to bathe your dog, though very small dogs may be bathed in a sink. Always remember that cold water is no fun for dogs. You may want to hook up the hot water so your dog can get a nice warm bath.

Have all the bath supplies needed at your arm’s reach before even wetting you pet:
• Soft, absorbent towels. Beach towels work well for larger dogs.
• Brushes and combs — choose the appropriate tool for your dog’s hair type.
• Bath mat for your dog to prevent slipping, if necessary.
• Apron and / or old clothes — you are going to get wet!

It’s also a good idea to brush your dog out before the bath begins. Be sure to remove any tangles or mats, as these are harder to deal with once your dog is wet.

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