How to Wash a Large Dog

Place three of the towels on the floor near the bath tub, and place the other two towels on the closed commode. Preferably use old towels that are rarely used by any person in the house. Use a shampoo that is especially made for the event. The Hartz Company makes an herbal scented brand that is pleasant to use. You should the shampoo in easy reach but also a place where the dog cannot easily knock it over; perhaps on the closed commode with the other towels. Have something at hand by which you can pour water on your dog; I suggest you use a rubber hose with a soft plastic nozzle resembling a miniature shower head.

These hoses can be easily found at Family Dollar or WalMart; most are very inexpensive and attaches to most bathtub water spouts. It is very important to have all of the necessary bathing supplies in the bathroom before you bring the dog in. The pooch will not remain inside the bathroom while you go to get anything, especially when most dogs feel the inside of any bathroom is akin to a crematorium. You are now well prepared, so you can now proceed with bringing your dog into the house. Get your dog’s leash and place it on the choker collar.

Your dog is cooperative because his destination is uncertain. If he becomes leery, as he becomes aware of his proximity to the bathroom, reassure him with some comforting words. Use an expression or promise you know works to motivate your special pet. I usually just show my dog the treat box, and she will automatically know she needs to behave in order to receive a treat. Once your dog is inside the bathroom, immediately close the door. Bring him to the edge of the tub and tell him firmly, “Get in. ” This sometimes works. Do not become discouraged if it does not.

Simply understand his reluctance and intervene by picking up one of his front paws. Gently direct it up, over, and into the tub, thereby reminding him how to walk. (Be assured this loss of coordination is temporary and full use of his limb returns as he flees the scene unassisted once the bath is completed. ) While you are engaging in this bold maneuver, anticipate a variety of responses from your pet. You can expect whimpering, howling, growling, and slightly bared fangs. One, all, or a combination of the above symptoms may appear. Ignore them all.

Once the dog is in the tub, remove the leash and choker collar and wet him thoroughly with the hose. You will now apply the shampoo. There are two important things to remember about applying the shampoo. First, always use a minimal amount, as most of these products are concentrated. Second, always work from the head to the tail in order to rid your pet of fleas properly. Don’t forget to shampoo the legs and soft pads of the paws. Give special attention to the belly area. If your dog is frequently outside, this may well be the dirtiest.

Create lather and work the suds in with a gently kneading motion. Follow the shampoo with a rinse from head to tail. Repeat these steps depending on how dirty the dog appears. Now pat your dog’s body dry with a towel, and make sure you dry the paws individually. Your dog will help you with the drying process as he shakes excess water into your unsuspecting face. After a few of these seizure-like episodes, assuredly, he will exit the tub without assistance. Make sure you allow the dog to fully dry off before releasing him/her back outside.

You don’t want the dog to be muddy or have grass stuck to its coat immediately after all your blood sweat and tears. After you remove the soggy towels and trapped fur accumulations and scour the tub, stick to your promise and give your dog what you promised. Breaking promises to your pet to often can lead to them behaving the wrong way for the next bath. Bathing a dog can be a hard task to do, depending on the dog. If you bath your dog often, your dog will start to warm up to the idea and won’t be so hesitant every time you bathe them. Following these steps will make the process easier for the washer.