The standards on how often you should bathe your dog are different from one canine to the next. Various breeds, as well as their varying types of coats, will determine how often the dog should be given a bath. The Poodle, for example, should be bathed every four or six weeks. On the other hand, the Pointer can go three or four months between baths. Other breeds which have harsh long coats, such as the Pomeranian, Samoyed, and the Norwegian Elkhound require less frequent bathing because it tends to soften the coat. Ironically, dogs that are kept in the house most of the time have to be bathed more frequently to keep them clean.

Washing your dog is important for a clean and healthy coat and skin . The coat should always be brushed thoroughly before the bath. This will help to remove all dead and matted hair from the coats of long-haired dogs.

Gathering the supplies you will need for th e bath is your next step. Here is a list of products you will need:

1. Bristle Brush

2. Rubber Tub Mat

3. Lead and Collar (to secure dog)

4. Shampoo (regular or special shampoos for conditioning, color, coat, etc.)

5. Cream Rinse (long-haired breeds with the exception of the Poodle and Terriers).

6. Sponge

7. Spray Hose

8. Two Thick Bath-size Towels

Always remember to secure your dog safely in the tub. A chain and choke is necessary for this, giving the dog about a foot and a half of slack. This will make sure that the dog cannot jump from the tub and injure himself. A rubber tub mat is also a good safety precaution.

Using a spray hose, wet the coat thoroughly with warm water. Next, apply the shampoo to the dog's coat with a sponge, paying special attention to the ears, rectum area, and pads of the feet. These three areas are usually neglected by most groomers when bathing the dog. A small bristle brush may be used to scrub the head, ears, pads of the feet, and other extremely dirty areas of the coat. When the coat is thoroughly soaped and scrubbed, rinse it with warm water. When rinsing, place the thumb over the ear opening to keep water out of the ears. Also keep a hand over the eyes to prevent any soap from getting into them. Since every dog should have a double bath, repeat the soaping and rinsing process. On the last rinse be sure to get all of the soap out of the coat. Gently squeeze the hair on the legs, tail, ears, and all parts of the dog's body with your hands to remove excess water. You must first towel dry before using a dryer.