Whether your pup is a grooming guru or a first-time tub goer, here are some ways to make bath time easier
Most dog owners have experienced the chaos of bath time before. Dogs leaping from bath tubs, water getting everywhere, anxious pups. So, how do we help make bath time easier for both us and our dogs?
Brush, brush, brush
Give their coat a thorough combing or brushing to make sure they’re mat-free. Brushing your pup before they get in a bathtub will help tremendously. If they have mats or tangles, water can make them worse and they’ll be a real pain to brush out. Brushing will also help prevent more hair clogging up your drains (you can also get a drain strainer to help with this).
Have your supplies ready
Whether you’re at home or using a local self-serve dog wash station, make sure you have everything you need within arms reach. Being prepared for the bath ahead of time will cut down on the time your pup has to be in the tub.
Some things you’ll need (or consider using) for bath time can include:
- Dog brush or comb
- 3+ towels (the more the better!)
- Dog-friendly shampoo and conditioner
- Facial wipes or a washcloth\
- Non-slip bath mat or extra towel (optional)
- Leash (optional)
- Blowdryer (optional)
- Treats!
Make it a positive experience
- Before the bath, it helps to get your dog used to the bathtub. Toss treats into the tub to encourage them to hop in and out, and give them lots of praise when in the tub.
- Spreading peanut butter on the side of your tub helps distract your dog during bath time.
- Help your pup get a grip in the slippery tub with a bath mat or even just a towel on the floor. Their paws aren’t great at gripping porcelain bathtubs, especially when wet.
- Make sure the water is the perfect temperature. Aim for lukewarm - if your pup is panting or shivering, this could mean the water is too hot or too cold.
Use a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner
If your pup isn’t a fan of baths, you can save time by using a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner. Make sure to pick one that has the benefits of a cleansing shampoo, but also has the hydrating properties of a conditioner. Our 2+1 Shampoo and Conditioner is a great choice for all dogs, especially those with sensitive skin.
Rinse and lather the right way
Before any shampoo is applied to your pup’s coat, make sure they are completely soaked down to the skin. This might take some additional time for dogs with double coats, such as retrievers and shepherds.
Start at their neck, go down their back, and end with the feet to ensure you don’t have to rewash and rinse parts of your pooch. Use a rich lather to remove all dirt and any excess, massaging the shampoo and conditioner in. Thoroughly rinse and check that there isn’t any leftover suds that could irritate their skin.
Take bath time outside
Your dog can’t jump out of the bathtub if there’s no tub! If the weather permits it, it may be easier to wash your dog outside. Have someone help hold your dog or you can tether them to something sturdy so they don’t wander away.
Tip: Make sure to really dry your dog after or take them inside until fully dry so they aren’t tempted to roll around in the dirt and get dirty again.
