If your house is like most, dogs who are generally happy to hang out and follow you from room to room will somehow vanish into thin air if you even dare think of that four letter word: B-A-T-H.
Of all of the activities that most dogs enjoy, bath time is probably the least of them. But there are a few things that you can do to make it go a little more smoothly when decide to give your dog a bath. A word of advice though, if your dog doesn’t merely “dislike” a bath but is truly fearful, you may want to leave the bathing to a professional groomer.
Get yourself ready first.
Although I’d like to tell you that it’s possible to bathe your dog without getting wet, you’re going to at least get splashed a time or two. So be sure to wear clothes that you don’t mind getting wet and covered with hair. (Also consider wearing shoes with a good tread that will give you traction in the event of having to chase a slippery wet dog.)
Take everything you’ll need into the bathroom ahead of time: dog shampoo, conditioner (for longer coats), mineral oil for eyes, cotton balls for ears, brushes, combs, clippers, several absorbent towels, and hairdryer (if your dog needs it).
Depending on the surface on which your dog will be standing, you may want to get a non-slip mat as well. No reason to have them slipping and sliding on a slick shower floor. If you don’t have a hand-held shower, be sure to grab a large bowl.
Don’t forget the treats!
Get your dog ready.
When you take him into the bathroom, shut the door behind you. There’s no point in giving him the added distraction of trying to plot his escape route. (If you’re bathing him outside, then I wish you the best of luck!)
Give him a treat and let him relax a bit before the festivities begin. Putting a drop of mineral oil in each eye will protect his eyes from shampoo. If you are able, place a cotton ball in each ear to prevent water from getting in.
Time to take the Plunge.
If you’re bathing your dog in the shower, then it’s somewhat easier to get him to step in himself. If you have to lift your dog into the tub, you may need a second person to help if you have a larger dog. (It’s easy to injure your back if you try to go it alone and he resists being put in the tub.)
Let your dog slowly adjust to the water. In the shower, if you’re using a handheld unit, then turn the water on low and let the temperature adjust before you spray your dog. In the tub, gently turn on the water and let your dog get used to the sound first. Make sure it’s not too hot and not too cold.
Once you start bathing your dog, be sure he’s thoroughly soaked before applying shampoo. If your dog has a thick undercoat that repels water, consider adding a little shampoo to the water that you are pouring over your dog. This will help cut the oil that repels the water.
Use your shampoo and conditioner of choice; following the directions on the bottle. When you’re done, thoroughly rinse your dog to remove all of the product from his hair. Otherwise, it will irritate his skin.
Throw in the Towel
When you’re finished, let him shake off the excess water while he’s still in the shower or tub. Dry him with the towels as much as possible BEFORE he leaves the bathroom. If he has a long coat, brush him and use a hair dryer on a low setting to help remove any loose hair.
Once you’re satisfied that he’s dry enough, unbolt the door and step aside. Most dogs tend to get the “zoomies” when they’re fresh from the bath, so stand back and let him run!
