Bathing a Yorkie  ( Yorkshire Terrier ) the right way takes time, organization and a lot of work in most cases. The larger the Yorkie ( Yorkshire Terrier ) the more of a challenge bath time will be if the Yorkie  ( Yorkshire Terrier ) is not properly trained to get into the bath, stand still, and then get out of the bath on command. Many people with large and giant breeds rarely if every bath their Yorkie  ( Yorkshire Terrier ), which is often the best possible option for the Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier )'s coat and skin.

Unlike people, Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier )s don't sweat through their skin so they typically don't have lots of odors. A Yorkie Puppies( Yorkshire Terrier ) smell, especially when the Yorkie  ( Yorkshire Terrier ) is wet, is due largely to dander that is built up between the skin and the hair, and this can be removed with regular brushing. Even most Yorkie  ( Yorkshire Terrier ) hair will repel both water and dirt as it contains natural oils that are there just to provide this protection to the hair. Bathing a Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) using shampoo and conditioner does strip these natural oils. Many people that bath their Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier )s on a weekly, monthly or even every other month may be contributing to skin allergies, rashes, infections and dry, dull and limp looking hair for the Yorkie ( Yorkshire Terrier ). Most breeds should only be fully bathed when absolutely necessary and there is no option for using a dry powder or grooming to clean the Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ).

Supplies and Products

There are many Yorkie ( Yorkshire Terrier ) shampoos and conditioners on the market that are specially designed with a Yorkie ( Yorkshire Terrier )'s hair and skin pH taken into consideration. These products are typically more expensive than the pet store brand Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) shampoo and conditioner, but may be the difference between a dull coat and a shiny and healthy looking coat for some breeds. If you know that the breed you own is prone to skin allergies, hot spots, rashes or other irritations or skin conditions it is a wise idea to go with the specialty, non-allergic type products. Shampoos and conditioners for Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier )s with oatmeal and aloe ingredients may be gentler and less problematic. In addition to shampoos and conditioners a good Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) hair detangler and a finishing leave in condition may also be beneficial to have on hand.

Before getting the Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) into the tub or sink or Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) bath, be sure to have everything you need. A hand held shower wand is a wonderful option, but a plastic pitcher can be used as well. Have the shampoo, conditioner, water, buckets, towels and a dry cloth on hand just in case. In addition a non-slip or skid mat in the bottom of the tub or sink will help make the Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) feel more secure and prevent any possibility of a slip and an injury. Most Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) baths will already have a texturized bottom for easy traction.

Strategies and techniques

Once all your supplies are ready and within easy reach, the next step is to bring the Yorkie  ( Yorkshire Terrier ). Depending on the breed of Yorkie  ( Yorkshire Terrier ) you own some breeders recommend grooming and detangling before bathing and some recommend after. If you are not sure, call a breeder and ask. Most Yorkie ( Yorkshire Terrier )s are OK with water, as long as it is not poured over their heads. Start by having the Yorkie  ( Yorkshire Terrier ) stand or sit in the tub or sink and let them become calm in the bath. Holding the Yorkie ( Yorkshire Terrier ) firmly by the collar, start to pour warm but not hot water over the Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ), ideally using the shower wand. Once the Yorkie  ( Yorkshire Terrier ) is wet all over, apply some shampoo to your hands, work up and lather, then pull through the coat using your fingers from the neck to the hips, only moving your hands in the direction of hair growth. NEVER rub or use circular motions to work the shampoo into the Yorkie  ( Yorkshire Terrier )s hair if you have a double coated breed or a medium or long haired breed, it will just make a huge mat of hair. Also, don't put any water near the face or ears, this can be washed with a cloth later on.

After the shampoo has been worked through the hair from the neck to the rump, use the wand and completely rinse any and all soap residue. Use your hand to gentle and carefully push the hair back and away from the skin and ensure that every last bit of soap is off the hair, even down by the skin. This is absolutely critical to avoid skin irritations. Once the Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) is completely rinsed, apply the conditioner in the same fashion, never rubbing, only stroking it through the hair in the direction of growth. Completely rinse all conditioner out of the hair and check to make sure there is no left over residue.

At this time you can use a damp cloth with clean, warm water to gently wash the face and ears. Never put water into the ears or pour water over the Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier )'s head. Don't use soap around the eyes or ears, just warm, clear water. Typically the hair on the face is very short in most breeds and won't need much attention. Breeds with a beard or moustache or long topknot may need additional attention on a daily basis to keep this longer hair clean.

Always watch your Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) for signs of anxiety and stress. Speak reassuringly and be sure to have a few treats on hand to keep the Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) attentive in the process. When getting the Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) out of the tub or bath be sure to give the command and help the Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) so he or she doesn't slip and possibly get injured. Avoid just allowing the Yorkie Puppy ( Yorkshire Terrier ) to jump out on his or her own.

Dry powders

Dry grooming powders are available in most pet supply stores. These are a great way to freshen up the Yorkie  ( Yorkshire Terrier ) between baths. They are simple to use, just sprinkle on and groom out. These powders typically don't cause any skin irritations in most breeds but if your Yorkie ( Yorkshire Terrier ) is prone to skin allergies you may wish to talk to your vet before using a dry powder.