In this Instructable, I will show you the basics of giving your dog that much needed bath. I am going to teach you everything I know about proper washing techniques for a puppie and a large dog.

Step 1: Choosing a Location

First off, you will need to find a proper location to wash your dog. You want to avoid a place that will get muddy or ruined with lots of water. I suggest an outside location, if you use the bathtub, prepare to clean a wet, hairy, bathroom. Get your dog on a clean, elevated object, like a table or stool, for easy access. This might require some training. if your dog can't stay on the table, attach a short leash to a pole next to the stand, short enough to keep the dog from jumping off.

Step 2: Begin the Wash

Comfort is key. Attach the hose to an indoor water source. If you wouldn't want to take a shower at the water's current temperature, your dog won't either. Make sure the hose is on a gentle setting. Would you want to be blasted by a hose set to jet? Now the fun begins. You want you're dog soaking wet, and by soaking, I mean soaking. Cover every inch of it's body, leave nothing dry. Be extra careful around the eyes, ears, and nose.

Step 3: Shampooing

Dilute the shampoo with water and place in a spray bottle. Apply heavily to every inch of your dog's body, including paws and the tail. Rub the shampoo deep into the undercoat, and if possible, reach the skin. Be extra careful around the eyes, ears, and nose. You don't want to cause irritation and discomfort. when every inch of your dog is soaped up, wash it off with water from the hose. Unlike humans, don't repeat. Wet, Lather, Wash.

Step 4: Drying

Do NOT use hairdryers, they will overheat the dog. If you can, buy a doggie blow-drier that blasts cool air at a high velocity. It quickly dries the dog without heat. We got ours at a dog show, check your local pet store. If you don't have one of these, towel dry your dog with a big hug. Your dog will be very frizzy after drying, comb this out. Your done, show of your nice and clean dog by taking it for a walk. Give it a treat for being such a good girl/boy.