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    Does your dog constantly scratch?  Is he dirty?  Does he stink?  If you answered yes to these questions, your dog is probably due for a bath.

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    10 tips that will help you successfully bathe your dog include:

    1. Unless your dog is dirty from playing outside, you should only bathe him once a month.  Because many different breeds can go longer than that, be sure to ask your vet how often you should bathe your dog.

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    2. Gather all of the bathing tools you’ll need.  These items include: towels, brushes, shampoo, conditioner, bath mat, etc.  Prepare your workplace.  Gather all of the items you’ll need such as towels, dog shampoo, conditioner, etc.

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    3. Thoroughly brush your dog before bathing him.  By brushing him first, you’ll be removing any loose hair or mats that he may have.  When matted hair gets wet, it can tighten up and pinch your dog.  Because of this, it’s best to brush your dog’s hair before wetting it.

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    4. Place some cotton balls inside of your dog’s ears.  One of the most common causes of ear infections in dogs is due to water getting into their ears.  Don’t forget to remove the cotton balls from your dog’s ears once you’ve finished bathing him.

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    5. Select an appropriate shampoo for your dog’s skin. Remember to only use a shampoo that’s specifically formulated for pets, not humans.  If your dog is still in its puppy stage, check with his vet to make sure you can use the shampoo you’ve selected on his skin.

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    6. Place a rubberized, non-slip mat on the bottom of the bathtub to keep your dog from slipping while you bathe him.

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    7. Using lukewarm water, wet your dog’s coat.  Starting at his the tail, apply the shampoo.  In a circular motion, massage it into a soapy lather.  Next, massage the shampoo onto the legs, his back, chest, and finally his head.

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    8. Keep the shampoo out of your dog’s eyes.  If you do happen to get soap in his eyes, be sure to wash it out immediately with lukewarm water.

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    9. Rinse your dog’s coat off thoroughly.  You’ll want to keep rinsing him off until the water runs clear.  If the shampoo isn’t completely rinsed off. irritation can occur.

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    Next: 10 Ways To Improve Your Dog's Bad Breath

    10. Be sure to dry your dog off thoroughly. Lay a towel over your dog’s back and rub him dry.  Don’t forget to dry the inside of his ears. If your dog will tolerate it, you can finish drying your dog off by using a hair dryer on the lowest setting.  Just a little warning. If your dog is anything like mine, he’ll want to shake off while you’re trying to dry him and you just may get soaked.  So, it’s best to wear clothes that you don’t mind getting wet. A full apron is also another great option to help keep you dry.

    There’s no need to worry if your dog resists bath time in the beginning.  Before long, he’ll look forward to it.  I can guarantee it!  Plus, he’ll feel so much better after he’s all clean.