Steps for a Successful and Fun Bath
Did you just get a new puppy? Or do you have a pup that has not gotten used to baths yet? Keep reading to get our 10 simple steps on how to make bath time with your pup enjoyable and fun!
If you are having trouble with bathing because your pup isn’t a fan of the water, don’t get discouraged! Check out our blog – Getting your Dog to Make a Splash! – for how to get your dog used to the water, so bath time can be a fun experience for both you and your pup!
Before we get started, let’s go over some dog psychology tips:
🌟 First, don’t coddle or soothe your pup when they are nervous. This will actually cause their anxiety to grow over time. Instead, ignore their anxious behaviors. This can be hard to do but it will help them relax in the long run.
🌟 Second, go in baby steps! Try not rush or have any expectations. Just be in the moment with your dog and allow time for them to get used to each of the 10 steps before moving on to the next.
🌟 Third, focus on the positives! Don’t correct your pup’s unwanted behavior when getting them used to a new experience like the bath. Instead, reward them for their good behavior to create a positive association with the tub.
So…Let’s get started!
Follow these 10 easy steps to get your dog squeaky clean!
#1. Check the bathing area.
Make sure to pick up and put away anything you don’t need or don’t want your pup to get into.
🌟Helpful tip! We recommend putting in a drain catch so dog hair doesn’t end up down your drain!
#2. Gather your bathing supplies.
Here are a few things that you will need:
- Dog Shampoo
- Brush
- Towels
- Optional recommended items:
- a pitcher or detachable shower nozzle for rinsing
- a blow dryer to help speed up the drying process
🌟 Helpful tip! Try using suction cup clips or a tether to safely secure your pup in the bathing area.
#3. Bring in your dog.
Secure your pup safely in the bathing area so they can’t run away.
👉Remember! Don’t soothe your pup. Give them time and allow them to get used to each step as you go.
#4. Start the water.
Always test the temperature before starting. It should be cool or tepid depending on the season and your dog’s breed and preferences, but it should never be hot.
🌟Warm or tepid water is best.
#5. Thoroughly wet your pup.
If they panic, stay calm. Show your pup there is nothing to be afraid of by not soothing them and giving them time to get used to a little bit of water first.
👉Remember! Don’t correct your pup for any unwanted behavior. Give them a treat when they have fully calmed down.
#6. Apply dog shampoo.
Make sure to lather your pup completely with dog shampoo.
👉Remember! Avoid your pup’s eyes, nose, and inside their ears.
👉Always use dog shampoo! Human shampoo can remove the natural oils in your pup’s coat that they need.
#7. Rinse completely.
Scrub and rinse all the shampoo out of your pup’s coat.
👉 Thoroughly rinse your pup off! You want to make sure all of the dog shampoo is off of your pup so their skin does not get irritated.
#8. Towel dry your pup.
Dry them off with a clean towel.
👉 Make sure to check your pup’s ears and wipe them out well with a clean towel or rag to avoid ear infections.
#9. Brush your pup.
Brush your pup’s coat to get rid of extra fur and any tangles to avoid matting. Consider a deshedding brush during shedding season to cut down on extra floof around the house!
👉 There are A LOT of different brushes out there, so be sure to choose a brush that works well for the length and type of your dog’s coat.
#10. Clean up the bathing area.
Put all supplies away so that your pup can’t get into them later on.
And that’s it!
🛁 Now you can enjoy your squeaky clean pup! It may take a few tries for your pup to be comfortable in the bath and that’s okay. Just take your time and have fun! 💦
Check out our other blogs for more great training tips for you and your dog!
And follow us on Instagram @PeticularlyPerfect for more fun and informative doggy content!
✨And if you are thinking of getting a dog, please consider adoption and rescue! There are so many dogs out there that need your leadership and love! ✨
