Tips for Bathing Your Dog
Bath time is probably not your dog’s favorite activity, but that doesn’t mean it has to be a hassle. To help make bath time easier for you here are some tips and tricks you’re dog will be sure to appreciate.
Before you get started
Don’t even put a drop of water on your furry friend before you ensure you have all the safe and necessary items. First, you’ll want to invest in shampoo made for your canine, even baby shampoo has a different pH than what’s best for your dog. If you’re afraid of getting soap in your pup’s eyes ask your vet about some eye ointment and how to properly apply it before a bath. Also, try adding small pieces of cotton to your dog’s ears to prevent water from getting in them and causing ear infections. You should try to brush your dog before their bath to help shampoo get closer to their coat and prevent any knots from getting drastically worse in the water.
Prepping the tub
Make sure you have all the necessary items you need for your pup’s bath ready and in reach beforehand to make things as easy as possible. Before you start the water put a piece of steel wool in the drain to block any dig hair that might clog your drain. You’ll also want to make sure your furry friend doesn’t slip all over the place by adding a non-slip surface to your tub’s floor. This could be a towel of a nonstick floor mat, either way, it’ll allow your dog to feel safer and gain comfort. The last thing to remember is to fill your bath before Fido is in the room. The sound of rushing water triggers unwanted anxiety in your pup that’ll make them dread baths even more.
Let the Bath Begin
Lead your dog to the water, encouraging them with treats to promote a positive view of baths. Once in the tub soak your pup completely all the way down to their skin. Wash them from their head to their paws and when you’re sure they’re scrubbed clean you’ll want to rinse them multiple times. Ensure all the soap is out of their fur before taking them out of the bath. Once you’re confident you’ve gotten rid of all the soap then you can help Fido out of the tub. If your dog seems to have trouble getting in and out of the bath try investing in a step ladder that’ll allow them to safely enter and exit the tub.
End Bathtime the Right Way
Once your dog is out of the tub don’t let them outside until they’re completely dry or else they’ll try to rub and roll off all your hard work. If you decide to use a blow dryer on your furry friend make sure it’s on the coldest setting to avoid accidentally burning them, you can even purchase ones made specifically for your pup. Especially with longer-haired dogs, this can be a huge time saver. Once your dog is dry they’ll be less bothered by the smell the shampoo makes.
Now that you have this extra knowledge hopefully bath time will be better for you and Fido. Happy bathing!