The Verdin
Method Bath Ritual
The Verdin Method is all about communicating and connecting with your dog. While bathing your dog can be a challenging and stressful experience for you and your companion, the Verdin Method offers a mindful, sensorial approach, promising a bath that your dog will not only tolerate but genuinely love, and so will you! By implementing a few easy steps, this method transforms the bathing experience, fostering a positive environment for both you and your dog, creating an opportunity to strengthen the natural bonds you share.
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Communicate with your dog. Dogs possess a remarkable ability to easily read our emotions and intentions. Approach your dog with a gentle touch and speak in a comforting, gentle voice. Maintain a calm demeanor to alleviate any fear or anxiety. Reassure them throughout the bath, encouraging the desired behavior. This helps your precious fur baby
associate bath time with a happy experience. Allow your dog to explore the bathing area before starting. Use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, to create a positive association with the space.
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Test the water temperature with your wrist before bringing your dog in. It should be lukewarm – not too hot or too cold. Dogs have more sensitive skin than humans, so using the right temperature is crucial. Slowly introduce your dog to the water. Begin with the paws and lower legs, allowing them to become accustomed to the sensation.
- Continue speaking to them in a comforting and gentle voice. Apply Verdin dog shampoo generously and consider using a shampoo brush to work the product into your dog's coat, ensuring it reaches down to the skin. The shampoo brush not only facilitates better distribution of the shampoo but also provides a deeper cleaning experience with a massaging effect.
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Concentrate on areas prone to dirt, such as the paws and underbelly. Delicately wash each paw pad by hand, taking care to navigate between the toes to eliminate any debris or substances adhering to the paw.
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Gently massage your dog to stimulate circulation and relax muscles. The positive association with touch can help build trust, making future grooming and healthcare activities more enjoyable for your dog.
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Let the shampoo sit for a minute on the body while you wash your dog's head.
- Be especially gentle around the eyes, ears, and mouth. Use a wet washcloth to wipe down the visible part of your dog's ear. Try not to let water get into the ear canal, as it can lead to bacteria and fungus growth.
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Rinse your dog thoroughly to remove all traces of the shampoo. When washing the head and face, point the dog's nose down so they are looking downward. In most cases, washing your dog once during a bath is sufficient. Dogs with long hair or a double coat may sometimes require a second wash to ensure that the shampoo reaches the skin and thoroughly cleans the coat.
- Towel dry and continue speaking in a positive tone of voice with your dog explaining to them that the bath is now over.
Treat and play!