...should you give your chihuahua a bath?

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Answer by chimama
Submitted on 12/16/2003
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Most sources say no more than once a month unless they get into something stinky. I bathe mine every two months or so, or whenever they get a little too strong of a doggy aroma. Strangely enough, it's the skin and oils that we leave on their coats when we pet them that make up most of the odor. But, I do wash their feet every week, at the same time I brush their teeth, trim their nails and clean their ears. Their feet are really the more noticeable aroma, since that's where they sweat, so they get that 'popcorn' smell. No matter when you wash them, don't get water in their eyes or ears. Wash them from the neck down, than put a little of the foam on a washrag and wash their face just like you would a human infant, then wipe again with a wet cloth. Water in a dogs ears can lead to nasty infections, and since chihuahuas have such tiny ear canals, it's very hard to make sure all the water gets out. Rinse very well, especially between toes and in the creases between their legs and their privates. Your vet can recommend a good shampoo, it's really not ok to use human shampoo, it's too harsh for their skin and can lead to dryness and itching. Just bite the bullet and get it, since a chihuahua is so little one bottle will last a very long time. Wrap them well in a towel and rub them vigorously, make sure the bathroom is nice and warm, I have a small 1200/1500 space heater that I have running so the room is 75 - 80 degrees. Praise them for being good in the bath and give them a treat. Make sure they are completely dry before you open the door so they don't take a chill, and have a blankie available for them to snuggle under.

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Question by cheese
Submitted on 12/8/2003
Related FAQ: rec.pets.dogs: Chihuahuas Breed-FAQ
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how often should you give your chihuahua a bath?

Answer by rach
Submitted on 11/7/2004
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thanks i had no idea that you couldnt use human shampoo on then well now i gatta get a new one thatnks so much....

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