Don’t be afraid to use your fingers.
In some cases, regular dog brushes don’t help. Don’t hesitate and use your fingers or a detangling tool if you need to.
Finally, your pooch is ready for his bath. Give him a nice rinse, and don’t forget to reward him with a delicious treat.
Giving Your Dog a Quick Rinse
Poor rinsing can lead to serious skin irritation, hair loss, matted fur, and other problems.
“Dry shampoo will crust and eventually mat or tangle the hair, and shampoo residue will leave your pet’s coat dull,” says Birmingham. “Be sure to rinse your pet thoroughly to avoid this.”
To make sure your dog’s coat is thoroughly rinsed after shampooing, use a decent amount of water pressure, says Colorado-based Wag N’ Wash groomer Tauyna Stites.
“The water needs to be able to penetrate the layers of their coat,” says Stites. “Keep rinsing until you stop seeing any bubbles coming from their fur, then rinse a little more.”
If your dog has sensitive skin, Stites recommends using a dog shampoo made with tea tree oil. “The oil can relieve itchiness and help calm the skin,” she says. “Conditioners made with aloe vera and certain medicated shampoos are also effective.”
One word of caution about oatmeal shampoos: Stites says that while oatmeal can soothe itchiness caused by seasonal allergies, it can also exacerbate conditions caused by yeast infections. If your dog has a skin condition, ask your veterinarian what type of shampoo will be best to use.
Washing the Inside of Your Dog’s Ears
Water in the ears gives bacteria an ideal breeding ground and can lead to infection, says Ditto. “And water in the nose might cause irritation, discomfort and reverse sneezing and/or coughing,” she adds.
To keep water away from your pet’s ears, nose and eyes, Birmingham recommends using a wet cloth to clean your pet’s entire head.
