🐶 Washing dirty dogs doesn’t have to be stressful — even if you’ve got a mud magnet like Bear! Over the years, we’ve developed a simple 5-step washing routine that leaves him clean, soft, and smelling amazing after every roll in fox poo or muddy puddle.
Step 1️⃣ Washing Dirty Dogs Starts with Water
Always start by soaking your dog’s coat thoroughly. Water helps loosen dried mud and grime, allowing the shampoo to spread evenly. Use lukewarm water to keep your dog comfortable, and remember — patience and calm energy go a long way when washing dirty dogs.
Step 2️⃣ Apply a Quality Dog Shampoo
After testing countless brands, I always come back to Groom Professional Shampoo. It’s affordable, long-lasting, and the scent is fresh without being overpowering. When washing dirty dogs like Bear, the lather cuts through fox poo, pond slime, and everything in between.
Step 3️⃣ Deep Clean Using the KONG Zoom Groom
Once you’ve applied shampoo, reach for the KONG Zoom Groom. This soft rubber brush helps work shampoo deep into the coat, removing dead hair and massaging the skin. It’s brilliant for washing dirty dogs who love a good scrub — and it turns bath time into bonding time.
Step 4️⃣ Rinse & Reward During Washing
Once the suds have lifted all the grime, rinse your dog thoroughly. For anxious or wriggly pups, the LickiMat Splash is a lifesaver. Stick it to the bath or shower wall, smear with dog peanut butter, and let them lick calmly while you rinse. It’s one of my top washing dirty dogs hacks for reducing stress. 👅
Step 5️⃣ Drying Dirty Dogs the Right Way
Wrap your freshly washed dog in a Lucky Paws Drying Coat or use their soft microfibre towels to absorb excess water. Made in the UK, these are super-absorbent and cut drying time in half. Bear loves lying in his robe afterwards with a chew while his coat dries naturally.
Trainer Tip: Keep a Mud Daddy in your boot for rinsing paws after walks. It’s ideal for quick cleans between full washes — especially for dogs who seem magnetically drawn to puddles!
For professional tips on coat care, check out Paws To Pamper — they offer brilliant grooming advice and services. 🧴
Related Articles:
