To bather a Whippet, run a shampoo over all areas of the dog, ensuring you lather it thoroughly. After gathering in the shampoo, rinse it off thoroughly. Dry off your Whippet with a towel, and consider using a hairdryer with a low setting for added comfort. Ensure you have a dry towel outside the tub for your Whippet to grip on to avoid falling.
It’s important to note that Whippets have sensitive skin, so it’s best to use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo free from harsh chemicals. Also, avoid bathing your Whippet too frequently, as this can strip the coat of natural oils and cause skin irritation. Instead, aim to bathe your Whippet at most once a month or as needed.
5 Steps to Bathe Your Whippet
1. Get the Right Tools for the Job
Gather all the supplies you need for the bath, including dog shampoo, towels, a non-slip mat, and a brush or comb. Cotton balls help plug the ears and prevent water from entering the ear canal.
An effective shampoo must be used that is free of skin irritants. You will need a gentle, dog-specific shampoo formulated for your Whippet’s skin and coat. Avoid using human shampoos, which can be too harsh for your dog’s sensitive skin.
You will need several towels to dry your Whippet after their bath. Use one towel to pat them dry and another to wrap them up in and help them stay warm. A non-slip mat is essential to keep your Whippet from slipping and sliding in the tub. You can place the mat on the bottom of the tub or shower to prevent accidents.
Use a brush or comb to remove tangles and mats before and after the bath. This will help to prevent tangling and matting. You will need a handheld showerhead or pitcher to wet your Whippet’s coat thoroughly. Be sure to avoid getting water in your dog’s eyes and ears, while a blow dryer can be helpful to finish drying your Whippet’s coat after the bath.
2. Prepare The Water
Fill the tub or basin with lukewarm water that is comfortable to the touch. Avoid using hot water, as it can be uncomfortable and even burn your Whippet’s sensitive skin. Before placing your Whippet in the water, check the water temperature with your hand or an elbow. Ensure the water is not too hot or cold, and adjust the temperature if necessary.
The water level should be high enough to cover your Whippet’s legs but not so high that they feel overwhelmed. The water should be deep enough to get their coat wet but not so profound that they can’t stand comfortably.
Then, add a small amount of dog-specific shampoo to the water and mix it in thoroughly. Be careful not to use too much shampoo, as it can be difficult to rinse out and leave a residue on your Whippet’s coat. Instead, stir the water to create suds and distribute the shampoo evenly throughout the water.
3. Apply Shampoo and Start Lathering
To shampoo your Whippet, use a handheld showerhead or pitcher to wet your Whippet’s coat thoroughly. Make sure that the water is lukewarm and comfortable to the touch. Then, apply a small amount of shampoo to your Whippet’s coat. Then, start at the back of the neck and work down the body, carefully avoiding the eyes and ears.
Use your fingers to massage the shampoo into your Whippet’s coat, working it down to the skin. Be gentle but thorough, ensuring that all areas of the coat are covered. Once you have finished applying the shampoo, rinse your Whippet’s coat thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Rinse all the shampoo, as leftovers can cause skin irritation. If your Whippet is especially dirty or has a strong odor, you may need to repeat the shampooing process.
4. Apply Conditioner
A conditioner on your Whippet can help keep your coat healthy, shiny, and tangy-free. Choose a dog-specific conditioner formulated for your Whippet’s skin and coat. Avoid using human conditioners, which can be too harsh for your dog’s sensitive skin.
Apply a small amount of conditioner to your Whippet’s coat, starting at the back of the neck and working your way down the body. Avoid getting the conditioner in your dog’s eyes and ears.
Use your fingers to massage the conditioner into your Whippet’s coat, then allow the conditioner to sit on your Whippet’s coat for a few minutes to allow it to absorb fully. Once the conditioner has had a chance to sit, rinse your Whippet’s coat thoroughly with lukewarm water.
5. Dry
After bathing your Whippet, it’s essential to dry them thoroughly to avoid any skin irritation or discomfort. Wrap your Whippet in a large towel and gently press down on their coat to absorb as much water as possible. Avoid rubbing your dog too vigorously, which can cause tangles and matting in its coat.
Use a blow dryer on a low heat setting to help dry your Whippet’s coat. Hold the dryer away from your dog’s body and use a comb or brush to help direct the airflow through the coat. Be careful not to use too much heat, which can damage your dog’s skin and coat.
Consider using a drying coat or blanket specifically designed for dogs. These can help to absorb excess water and keep your dog warm as they dry. If your Whippet is comfortable and warm, you can allow them to air dry. Please ensure they are in a warm, draft-free area to prevent chills.
