Grooming Advice
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Make sure there are no tangles or matting in the hair before bathing.
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Place a rubber mat or a towel in your bathtub or sink for secure footing. Then place a cotton ball in each of your pet's ears to prevent water from entering.
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Rinse your pet with warm water. A spray hose is ideal, but do not spray directly into the face. Instead, use a small cup and pour it on gently, being extremely careful not to get into eyes or nose.
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Make sure you are using an appropriate pet shampoo. Never use human shampoo on a pet. Dilute in some warm water and apply, working into a lather from the neck to the tail. Make sure to get areas such as between the toes, armpits and under the tail. Do the head and ears last. Again, be very careful not to get anything in the pets eyes.
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Thoroughly rinse your pet with warm water, make sure ALL shampoo is out. If residue is left on, skin problems may occur.
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Follow with a conditioner if necessary, using the same procedure.
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Dry your pet with a towel and/or hair dryer on a low setting.
It is best to consult a vet before starting a tooth brushing routine with your pet. A damaged tooth or gum disease will make tooth brushing painful for the pet, and may cause him/her to bite.
Bad breath may be an indicator of a problem in the mouth.
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You can buy pet toothpaste and a toothbrush from a vet or pet store, make sure appropriate toothpaste is used. Human toothpaste is not made to be swallowed, and may be harmful to a pet. (A finger brush may be easier for getting your pet used to brushing.)
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If the pet has never had their teeth brushed before, get them used to the procedure. Put some toothpaste on your finger and let them lick it off, then gently rub some on the gums with your fingers. Lots of praise during and after is also important!
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Have the dog sit, and using your thumb and pointer finger lift the gums on either side of the dogs mouth so the teeth are exposed. Make sure your grip is firm, but too much pressure will be painful. (Holding the mouth this way gives you easy access to the teeth as well as protecting your fingers from them!)
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Starting at the canines, gently brush the toothpaste onto the teeth, work your way back and leave the small teeth at the front for last. Many dogs are sensitive about these teeth, so don't brush to hard.
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Pet toothpaste is usually quite tasty and does not need rinsing.