UWDOGS Top 12 Bath-time Tips
Some of our recent feed-back comes from new Puppy owners who ask the question: ”How do I wash my Pup?” So let's get started.
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Shampoo Application? As a helpful hint, we suggest a Mixer Bottle. A soft plastic bottle with single spout (like a tomato sauce bottle) always works a treat. The easy-to-use Pump on our Underwater Dogs Shampoo means you pump product directly into the bottle (no wastage). "How much you ask?" Well as much as you would normally use on your dog - so obviously, size really does matter. Then fill the rest of the bottle with warm water and give it a gentle shake to mix thoroughly. Using the shampoo from the mixer allows the shampoo to distribute evenly throughout your dog’s coat. It also goes exactly where you want it! So try it. We know you’ll like it.*Note - Make sure your dog's coat is thoroughly wet before adding the shampoo mix. Shampoo always activates best on wet hair.
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The really dirty bits? For those really dirty spots - paws, ears and the under-carriage; shampoo with concentrated shampoo straight from the Underwater Dogs pump pack so you can really get into those nasty, grubby bits. Our Shampoo will cut through even the toughest of possum pooh.
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Before getting wet: A reminder to look after your dog’s ears by using cotton wadding to stop water getting into the ear canal; this can predispose your dog to ear infections. This is a must for most dogs especially those with long floppy ears (long ear canal). Also, remove any burrs or foreign objects from their coat as this will help the process and make combing through later a breeze. A good brush is always encouraged for longer-haired dogs, helping the cleansing process and keeping mats and tangles to a minimum.
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Now get wet: Wet their coat really well - the shampoo will activate better when the hair is wet. Depending on your circumstances, just remember to make the experience a good one. Ever had a cold shower? Perhaps consider nice WARM water right from the get-go. Believe me, it will be appreciated big-time. Note to self: Expect to get wet.
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Where do I start? However you choose to wash your dog, please don’t drown them in torrents of water. It’s a really good idea to start at the rear and work your way up. Back paws first, working up the legs to wet the rear end thoroughly. Then make your way up the torso and front legs; again from the paws up. This way they're getting used to the water first. You can use a shower rose, doggie sponge, a plastic jug or cup. Whatever you have available can be made to work, but have fun with it. Knowing what’s going for your pal will also mean they’ll be more likely to stay focused on the job at hand.
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Treats? Verbal praise and doggie treats are also recommended for you to have on-hand. After all, generally speaking all canines have a food agenda... (peanut butter always works a treat, no pun intended). If it’s your first time, maybe even have a helper just in case you need an extra pair of hands. Some owners will prefer to have their dog tied up so they remain focused on the job. If you choose to tether your mate, don’t use their favourite leather collar. A nylon collar, especially for the wet job at hand will be a better choice over time.
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A Non-Slip Mat? This is a great idea if you are washing in the shower or bath-tub. This will give your dog extra confidence if they know they’re not likely to slip.
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My Dog doesn’t like getting water on his face: Some dogs will sit under the tap, water cascading over them and think nothing of it. Others don’t like water on their faces and will be terribly vocal about it. Again, work out what your dog likes. This will in most cases be trial and error…but worth it in the long-run. You may have to use a sponge to wet, clean and rinse. Take extra care with those who have multiple facial wrinkles and longer than usual ear flaps. If your dog’s ears stand up to attention, cup them with your hand to ensure water does not enter the canal, or use cotton wadding.
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Bath-time means massage time. Use your mixer bottle and spread the product around, then massage their bodies working the product into their coat and skin. Work in the direction of their hair growth, they’ll love it...and so should you. Just make certain you are very thorough in all those hard to reach places; especially their under-belly and around their ears. Also a caution: take care of your back, especially if you’re leaning over the bath or tub.
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Rinsing? Would have to be one of the most important tasks at hand, although this time rinse from the head down so any shampoo residue is rinsed away from the eyes and down the torso. Water naturally falls away from the body, so gravity is working with you. You can use your hands to remove any excess water. Please ensure all product is removed, especially around the ears, under the torso and leg-pits, and be extra cautious with those with facial folds or excess skin.
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How do I condition my dog’s coat? You have options when it comes to conditioning your dog. You may condition when wet, massaging all over into all the nooks and crannies OR, you may towel dry and condition semi-wet. You may rinse off completely OR, you may choose to leave your Conditioner on (this is awesome for those who have allergies or dry, itchy skin sensitivities). Underwater Dogs formula is versatile and will not leave the hair heavy or lack-lustre and we promise there'll be no product build-up. There are no set rules here, it's up to your dog's needs but once the conditioner meets the skin & hair shaft it will lock in moisture. Massaging the conditioner into your buddy’s skin is the ultimate feel-good moment for your dog. Your special guy is guaranteed to smell like a coconut…and be oh-so-soft! So play with it, and find out what best suits them.
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Towel Dry? At UWDOGS we love a good microfibre towel. They absorb a tonne of moisture and are easy to manoeuvre over your dog's bits, but really there are no set rules. Some even like to just shake it off. If you’re using a towel, just blot them rather than rub as this will help against matting build-up. Whatever you use, just make sure you wash towels thoroughly between use, otherwise you’ll be drying your clean pup with a dirty towel. Note: Some canines love a good blow-dry, but test this one out slowly and never make the experience a traumatic one. Blow from the paws up and from the rear so they get used to this rather unusual phenomena. They’ll quickly let you know if it’s not gonna happen. Finally, remember to remove the cotton wadding from their ears and keep cosy & warm until dry.
Like children, all dogs are different. Be patient, you’ll work it out. If your dog has the 'itchie-scratchies,' then we'd recommend you use a soap-free, pH balanced Shampoo & Conditioner like Underwater Dogs.
"This product is amazing and it worked a treat - grease came off immediately, and he smelt so good it was back to cuddling instantly. I would definitely recommend this product to all my clients." Anne, Professional Groomer, Sydney Australia
Underwater Dogs is professional haircare for canines promising you the cleanest, softest most delicious smelling dog on the block! Professional grooming salon formulas, naturally moisturising shampoos and conditioners are soap-free, paraben-free and pH balanced, made especially for your dog.
We’re proud of our product range and would like to reassure all our dog-loving customers that our quality ingredients, and scientific formulations will not let you down. All products are backed by the Underwater Dogs 100% Money Back Guarantee.
If you have a question or would like to speak with the Underwater Dogs team, please email our Customer Service Dog: woof@uwdogs.com OR, connect via our Contact Page
SKIN & HAIR HEALTH by UWDOGS
