Washing your dog at home is a great way to take care of him while strengthening your bond. However, many owners make mistakes that can damage their companion's skin, make the moment stressful... or downright ineffective! At Chien PrĂ©cieux , we want every dog ââto be clean, happy, and pampered as he deserves. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid when washing your dog at home, as well as our practical tips for successful grooming đđŸ

â 1. Use human shampoo
This is THE biggest mistake to avoid. The pH of a dog's skin is different from that of humans. A conventional shampoo (even a "gentle" one) can cause irritation, itching, and even dandruff.
â To do:
Use a shampoo specially formulated for dogs. It respects your pet's sensitive skin while providing a deep cleanse.
â 2. Washing too often
Bathing your dog every week may seem hygienic, but it can destroy his skin's natural protective barrier , leading to dryness or infections.
â To do:
A bath every 1 to 3 months is generally sufficient, except in special cases (rolling in mud, allergies, etc.). In the meantime, you can use cleaning wipes or a suitable brush to keep its coat clean.

â 3. Rinsing the shampoo incorrectly
Even if you use a suitable product, leaving shampoo residue in the coat can cause itching, redness or patches.
â To do:
Take the time to rinse thoroughly, especially around the armpits, stomach, and behind the ears. The water should run clear without foam , even if it takes several minutes.

â 4. Using water that is too hot or too cold
The wrong temperature can make the experience very unpleasant, even dangerous, for your dog.
â To do:
Use lukewarm water, like you would for a baby bath. Test with your wrist before wetting your dog.

â 5. Neglecting drying
Many owners think that a quick wipe with a towel is enough. However, improper drying can cause unpleasant odors, tangles, and even fungal infections (especially in dogs with long or wrinkled hair).
â To do:
-
Use an absorbent microfiber towel, like the one we offer in our âGroomingâ collection.
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For dogs that tolerate it, use a hair dryer on low heat or a suitable blow dryer.
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Remember to dry well between the pads and behind the ears.

â 6. Forcing or stressing your dog
A dog that is stressed during bathing will remember the experience as negative, and every wash will become a nightmare.
â To do:
-
Speak to him softly.
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Reward him with a treat before/after.
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Use a non-slip mat in the bathtub to prevent it from slipping.
â The perfect kit for washing your dog at home
At Chien Précieux , we have selected practical tools and accessories to make grooming at home easy, pleasant and efficient:
Natural dog shampoos
Soft detangling brush
đż Bath massage glove
Ultra-absorbent microfiber towel
Non-slip bath mat
đš Quiet blower/hair dryer
đ Discover the Grooming collection

đ In summary
Washing your dog at home can be a real bonding experience, as long as you respect their rhythm , use the right products , and avoid common mistakes. By following these simple tips, you can guarantee your companion a clean, healthy, and shiny coat âš You can also brush their teeth for better breath!
And if you're looking for reliable tools, tested and approved by our team, don't forget to visit the Precious Dog Grooming collection đŸ