Bathing Your Puppy

Dogs

Your cute adorable puppy loves new experiences. This is the time to get your pup used to bathing. If you wait too long to introduce him to soap and water, you may end up bathing an unwilling and uncooperative dog – and end up all wet.

Here are a few tips to make the ritual of the bath more enjoyable, or at least tolerable, for the both of you. With some patience and practice, your dog, rather than you, will get the lion's share of the bath. As time goes on, your pup will eventually tolerate, and may even enjoy, a periodic dip in the tub.

To Bathe or Not to Bathe

The first step is to consult your veterinarian about your particular pooch. Different breeds and lifestyles will dictate when it is safe to begin bathing your pup and what sort of pet shampoos work best. Never wash your dog outside if the weather is cold. This is particularly true for puppies, who have trouble regulating their body temperatures. Puppies should be at least four weeks old before they receive their first bath.

Start Slowly

First get your puppy used to the tub or bathing area. Place him in the tub and offer a treat. Make it a fun experience. Don't start running the water or getting your puppy wet. Let him think this is just a happy place to be.

Then, begin to wipe your puppy with a wet towel while he is in the tub. Still offer treats and make it a fun experience. If you are getting frustrated, quit and start over later.

After your pup is used to the wet towel, pour some water over your pup from a pre-filled bucket. Once he is used to this, it is safe to begin bathing as you would an adult dog.

Be Prepared

Before you tackle your dog, you'll want to go through a pre-bath checklist. Prepare the bathing area out of your dog's presence. There's no point in warning him ahead of time; he'll only get anxious. Here are some items you'll want to have on hand:

A veterinarian-approved dog shampoo (people products can cause allergic reactions)

Mineral oil and/or cotton balls

Washcloth or sponge

Towels (the bigger the dog, the more towels you'll need)

A warm, draft-free area

A bathing tether if you're bathing him in a tub. (If you're bathing him outside, a tether to a fixed point will do.)

Brush and comb for his coat

A soft brush for between his toes and on his nails

A rubber tub mat