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A smiling older man in a fishing vest scrubs a wet yellow Labrador sitting in a soapy galvanized metal tub in a backyard. 33 / 40

Grandpa Filled the Old Washtub With Suds. Only One of Them Was Smiling.

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Bubbles rise to the rim of the old galvanized washtub, and Sunny sits right in the middle of them, soaked to the shoulders and looking surprisingly dignified about it. Her wet coat clings in damp ripples, and her ears hang heavy with water. Grandpa Gus leans over the tub with his sleeves pushed back, a sudsy scrub brush in one hand, grinning broadly under his white mustache. The backyard behind them is in full autumn mode, with a weathered fence, a blue watering can, potted plants, and a scattering of fallen leaves across the grass.

Labradors have a dense, water-resistant double coat, and most do not need frequent baths. Bathing every month or two, or whenever they roll in something smelly, is usually plenty, since washing too often can strip natural oils and dry out the skin. Use a shampoo made for dogs, because human products can be too harsh for canine skin. Lukewarm water is best, and a thorough rinse matters more than people realize, as leftover soap can cause itching. Avoid getting water and suds deep in the ears, and dry them well afterward, since Labs can be prone to ear infections. Regular brushing between baths, especially during shedding season, helps keep that coat healthy and keeps loose fur off the furniture.

Sunny may not have volunteered for this bath, but she is handling it with grace. Grandpa, on the other hand, is clearly having the time of his life.

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