Re-Think How You Apply Product
Iv San Bernard teaches to leave shampoo and conditioner on for 5 minutes to get the most efficiency from the product, however the sequence of application is also important.
Our body, as well as our pet’s body, has different areas which are more sebaceous (secretory) than others. In humans, the most sebaceous areas are head, face, pits and privates. Those are the areas that secrete the most oils or fluids and are also the smelliest areas. In dogs, it is the face, chin, neck, under belly, pits, groin, anal region, and paws. Therefore, these are the areas to apply shampoo first, so it has the most time to work.
If you are doing therapies, always start on the most affected area. Many have been taught to start on the back (which is one of the cleanest areas of the body) out of convenience, not science. Sounds simple, but makes a big difference in our results.
The Right Order to Apply Shampoo on a Dog
- Start with the most affected area if you are doing a skin therapy, so it gets the longest contact time.
- Then the most sebaceous areas: face and chin, neck, underbelly, armpits, groin, anal region and paws.
- Then the legs and sides.
- Finish with the back, which is one of the cleanest areas of the body.
Many groomers were taught to start on the back simply because it is easy to reach. Starting where oil, odor and skin problems concentrate puts the product where it is needed most, for the longest time.
Why Contact Time Matters
Shampoos and conditioners need time on the skin to work. Iv San Bernard teaches leaving products on for about 5 minutes instead of scrubbing harder or washing twice. Applying first to the areas that need it most means those areas get the full 5 minutes or more.
Tips for More Efficient Bathing
- Dilute concentrated products about 1 part product to 3 parts water.
- Whisk the mixture into a foam so it spreads easily. See why whisk?
- Brush or work the foam down to the skin rather than just over the coat.
- Follow the same order with conditioner.
- Use less product for more time. See quantity control.
More technique guides: bathing techniques and getting the most from your shampoo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should you start when shampooing a dog?
Start with the most affected area if you are treating the skin, then the oiliest areas such as the face, chin, neck, underbelly, armpits, groin and paws. Finish with the back, which is one of the cleanest areas.
How long should shampoo stay on a dog?
Iv San Bernard recommends leaving shampoo and conditioner on for about 5 minutes so the product has time to work.
Why not start shampooing on the back?
The back is one of the cleanest areas of the body. Starting where oil and odor concentrate gives those areas the longest contact time.