I don't wash MaQ often because being a German Shepherd, it's not very good for their skin and coats. During the summer, I'll always hose him down when we're out running around not only to keep him cool, but that fresh water cleans him right up after one of our workouts! But now that the season's have changed, I do tend to give him more baths inside. Given that my husband and I live in NYC, most of us aren't blessed with a backyard, where I could be giving him a wash and rinse there. So instead, MaQ has a little rub-a-dub-dub in the tub!

I swear by the dog shampoo line from Kiehl's. Call me a snob but I only dare to put the best products on my baby pooch. His skin is sensitive enough so I'm really selective in his shampoo. I love their Spray-N-Play Cleansing Spray, (kind of like dry shampoo) that I regularly use in between his monthly baths. It's got a lovely chamomile flower extract, always leaving MaQ fresh and as I always say, "smelling like sugar cookies." :)

Their Cuddly-Coat Grooming Shampoo is top of the line. I've been using this shampoo since he outgrew his puppy soap. And his coat is nothing but shiny, silky and smooth. The 3 S's in my book for any shampoo! They also have a conditioning rinse but I have yet to try this one.

Like any experience with MaQ, I want it to be a positive one. And since he's not exactly a fan of taking baths (he loves any water that's not clean!), I reinforce with lots of treats and some of his favorite toys. He is absolutely bananas for his Chuck-It Balls. And he loves this new rubber crocodile I got him specifically for bath time. I know, I know. But look at this boy's balancing skills!

You got to admit, he is such a trooper with everything. I know so many dogs that would look absolutely miserable while getting washed but MaQ's demeanor is all about the good vibes. He enjoys nothing more than the happiness life brings to him every day.

♩ ♪ ♫ ♬ Splish-splash I was taking a bath!♩ ♪ ♫ ♬

Okay, okay. Can I get out of the tub now?! Awe!

How many of you have a dog who uses YOU as their personal towel to dry off on?! Ha ha ha! If it's raining, MaQ shamelessly dries his face in between my legs. He's been doing that since he was a puppy! And especially after a bath, it's almost like a "here, this is what you deserve after washing me with that foul crap momma!" LOL! Doesn't he look so silly with the black towel?

And there ya have it! Oh so fresh! And oh so clean! Outkast would be proud. ;)

Love & xx's,

maQ + suz

SHOP THE LOOK

I do all sorts of activities with my German Shepherd, maQ. As you know, he is a major part of my life and of course, obviously plays a big part in our blog, maQ + suz. We are both active, love the outdoors and have a soft spot for late morning snoozing and indulging in snack attacks together. We love to play. His plush toys are his ultimate favorite besides balls. Before I introduce him to any new toy, dog, or person, he is asked to do something in return for the interaction. For example, if we're meeting someone new, he is always told to sit first before the interaction begins. With his plush toys, I will not only have him sit, but will work on impulse control and have him balance it on his head. Check it out! Say Pineapple!

Look at that smile! I swear he'd do anything I'd ask him to! Ha! What a derp! He's not always all smiles though, you can see for yourself! Ha ha ha! I'd like to think it's because he's in full concentration mode but I know it's because sometimes he's just not feeling it.

Like this weird, green, frog/octopus hybrid toy, even in his most, 'REALLY, mom? Again?!' expressive face, he's so cute! I always reward him with tons of treats during any kind of photo shoot. I break down his favorites into tiny pieces so that way he doesn't eat entire boxes of treats everyday! That way, we make any experience a positive one and in the process a fun one as well!

There's that smile again! Doesn't this last picture give you all the hippy vibes? ;) And I have to admit, that's a pretty good tongue for a Tongue Out Tuesday! We hope he puts a smile on your face, like most people he comes across with, unless they think they're lunch meat, in which case, they flee rather quickly...