Start by choosing the proper DOG shampoo NOT human shampoo or conditioner. For dogs with sensitive skin choosing an oatmeal based shampoo might be helpful or a hypoallergenic shampoo for dogs with allergies. You can shampoo your pet once a month – sometimes more than that can dry out their skin. Before bathing – be sure to give a good brush out – this will help to remove extra fur and small mats. Do not bathe your pet if they already have mats – doing so will only make the mats worse. Wet your pet down thoroughly – avoiding their eyes, ears and face at all times. Massage the shampoo into the fur and down to the skin of the pet, then be sure to thoroughly rinse the shampoo from the fur to avoid leaving any on the skin. You can take a wash cloth to the face and ears of your pet avoiding eyes at all times. Completely dry your pet off including in-between toes and inside of ears. Long-haired dogs will mat if not dried off completely.