Pre-bath/before-shampoo treatment

The baths

Depending on the texture of the hair, the frequency of baths varies; thus, short hair should only be washed when it is dirty, short hair twice a year on average and long hair about every three months.

Small dogs can be washed in a basin or baby bathtub, and large dogs in the bathtub or outdoors (weather permitting). A rubber mat will prevent uncontrolled slips that could injure or permanently frighten the dog. Warm water should be used, along with a special shampoo formulated for dogs. Products intended for humans (even infants!) are too acidic and will irritate their skin.

Bathing your dog
The coat should be brushed before bathing to remove any tangles. Wet the dog's entire body. Lather the shampoo, being careful around the ears and eyes; let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly. It's best to rinse the head last, otherwise the dog might shake itself. Dry the dog vigorously and leave it in a warm room. In summer, you can let the dog outside or take it for a walk if it doesn't tend to roll around. If the dog tolerates it, you can dry it with a hairdryer: be careful not to burn it and brush it while drying.