How to Bathe an Unwilling Dog
- Paulina
- Sep 8, 2015
- 4 min read
Taking your dog to a groomer can be expensive and time-consuming. It can also cause your pooch a lot of stress! Sometimes the best solution is to simply roll up your sleeves (literally!) and get the job done yourself.
But… what if your dog does not want to cooperate?
Here’s an easy step-by-step guide to follow when giving your best friend a bath that should make the process both fun and stress-free.
What you will need:
One dirty dog (the dirtier the better!)
A brush and comb
A shampoo formulated for dogs (you can buy it at any pet supply shop)
Conditioner (optional)
A towel or ten (depending on the size of your dog)
Water
Dog treats (aka bribes)
Leash
Time (don't rush it!)
Patience (there's no need to get stressed out! Have fun!)
My dog (Dante - a 2 year old Caucasian Shepherd mix that weighs over 120 pounds) is 80% fur and 20% dog - so regular baths are important.
Dante did not exactly volunteer for this tutorial, but he does meet the criteria (one dirty dog).
Step one: brush your dog carefully and thoroughly.
Dante hates being brushed, which is unlucky for him (and me!) as his fur is pretty long and requires constant brushing to prevent tangles and matted hair. I use two types of brushes because his coat has two layers.
The brushing process is usually a struggle; he tries running away from me and squirms in hopes that I'll just give up and leave him alone. If you are also experiencing this with your dog I found that it helps to be stubborn and firm - let your dog know you mean business. BUT - don't overwhelm him. Limit each brushing session to a few minutes at a time.
Step two: prepare your supplies. There are many types of shampoos and conditioners available in stores – use the kind that will work best for your dog (depending on his coat, age, problem areas, etc.).
Tip: never bathe your dog in your own shampoo – human hair is different than dog hair.
Step three: setup. My dog’s not exactly tiny. He doesn’t fit in the sink. He does fit in my bathtub – but I don’t want to spend the next 2 days cleaning my bathroom! That’s why I chose to give him a bath outside. Plus, it's summer and the weather is beautiful!
He’d run away in a second, so I’m tying him to my steps.
He knows what’s coming! And he’s not happy!
Step four: hose down your dog – make sure he’s thoroughly wet. EXCEPT FOR HIS EARS! Protect your dog's ears from getting wet - this will prevent nasty infections.
He’ll shake a few times and get you wet as well. That’s ok – all part of the process.
Step five: lather in the shampoo. Make sure you apply it everywhere. This can be tricky when you have a feisty dog. That’s ok – take your time!
Tip: turn this step into a day at the spa for your dog. Trick him into thinking he's getting a massage. Also, Dante calms down if I sing to him while doing this. He prefers 80s rock.
Step six: rinse. Oh boy. More shaking will follow. Once again, it’s very important to rinse off all of the shampoo.
Tip: if your dog is particularly dirty you can shampoo and rinse again.
Step seven: apply conditioner. This is optional. Dante has long hair that tangles easily, so I use a conditioner on his hind legs and tail. I leave it on for a few minutes then rinse.
Tip: snacks are appreciated while we wait.
Step eight: towel-dry. My mother probably would not be happy if she knew I’m using the towels she gave me. Fingers crossed she doesn’t find out.
Step nine: brush your dog one more time. This will help him dry faster and detangle his fur.
(Dante DID NOT appreciate posing for pictures to demonstrate this part.)
Step ten: a walk will help your dog dry, but it might take a few hours till he’s fully dry. (You'll have to imagine this step. Walking a crazy wet dog while taking pictures is akin to iPhone dropping and smashing on sidewalk...)
Step eleven: apologize for the injustice you’ve caused your animal.
Step twelve: good dog!
Additional tips:
Invest in a good shampoo. This will extend the time before you have to bathe your dog again.
Stay calm and focused. Don't yell at your dog if he does not listen to you while getting a bath. In his mind you are taking away his awesome smell and replacing it with a yucky fresh scent. Plus - how would you feel if someone tied you to a fence and hosed you down?
Brushing your dog regularly between baths helps keep his coat clean and tangle-free. It might be a chore - but take a few minutes out of your day (every day!) to brush your dog.
Dogs will basically do anything for the right treat. It's OK to bribe your dog before, after and throughout his bath.
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