How to Bathe a Long-Haired Dog with Tropiclean Shampoo

Quick answer

Bathe your long-haired dog by brushing out tangles first, wetting the coat thoroughly, applying Tropiclean Long Hair Coat Shampoo in sections, and rinsing longer than you think. Work in the direction of hair growth and keep one hand supporting the coat to avoid matting.

Step-by-step long coat bathing routine

1. Brush out tangles before water: Use a slicker brush or comb to work through the coat in small sections, starting at the ends and moving toward the skin. Pay extra attention behind the ears, under the front legs, and around the tail base. If you hit a stubborn knot, stop and work it out with your fingers or a detangling comb before bathing.
2. Wet the coat in sections: Use lukewarm water and a handheld sprayer or pitcher to soak the coat down to the skin. Part the fur with your fingers or a comb so water reaches the undercoat rather than running off the top. A common mistake is wetting only the surface; check by parting the coat at the shoulder and hip.
3. Apply shampoo in diluted sections: Dilute a small amount of Tropiclean Long Hair Coat Shampoo with water in a cup, then pour it along the back and work it into the coat with your fingers or a sponge. Avoid scrubbing in circles, which can push fur into tangles. Keep shampoo out of the eyes and ears; use a damp cloth for the face instead of pouring shampoo over the head.
4. Rinse until the water runs clear: Rinse from the neck down, parting the coat repeatedly to reach the skin. Continue until the water running off your dog is completely clear and feels slick-free between your fingers. Residue left in a long coat is a top cause of post-bath itching and dullness; rinse one extra pass.
5. Towel-dry without rubbing: Press a microfiber towel or absorbent cloth against the coat to soak up water. Do not rub vigorously, which roughs up the hair and creates tangles. Swap to a dry towel when the first one is soaked rather than wringing it out over the dog.
6. Comb damp and dry completely: While the coat is still damp, comb through in small sections to lift the fur away from the skin. Then let your dog air-dry in a warm, draft-free room or use a pet dryer on a cool setting, combing as it dries. Never let a long-coated dog stay damp for hours; trapped moisture against the skin can cause problems.

Product facts

• Tropiclean long hair coat shampoo: Tropiclean Long Hair Coat Shampoo is intended for dogs with long coats. Choosing a shampoo made for long coats helps you avoid a formula designed for shorter or different coat types.