Bathing A Dog

You should take extra special care when giving your dog a bath.  If you are careless while bathing your dog, the animal may end up with an infection.  For example, if you do not close the ears off with a large cotton ball, the water may enter the ear canals and cause an ear infection.  Symptoms of an ear infection include constant discharge from the ears and shaking of the head.

How often you should bathe your dog actually depends on the breed of the dog.  If the dog is a hairy type like the cocker spaniel, then you should give your dog a bath once every six to eight weeks.  If these breeds are bathed too frequently, then the skin and coat will lose its protective characters. 
 
 Make sure you avoid using a shampoo that irritates the skin or human soaps. The soap materials used for human beings are not suitable for dogs.  Similarly, many human shampoo products have some ingredients that are not suitable in the proportions that are to be used on dogs. Always try to use a shampoo products that is made for dogs. It is also important to be careful when using any new product.  Use only a small amount first in case your pet is allergic to the ingredients.

When you are bathing your dog, it is important to have a good time and be patient with your dog.  Make sure you have all the products you need for bathing in one place, easily within reach of the water source and the bath will go smoother.  You will need shampoo, conditioner, towel and maybe a leash.  Conditioner is good for long haired dogs as it will make brushing easier.    Bathing should be a fun activity for both the dog and the owner. It should not be a burden.  If you make it a fun time your dog will eventually look forward to a bath.  Make sure to give your dog one of his favorite treats right after the bath so he will remember that bathing is a good thing.