Dog Bathing Hacks

Does your dog jump for joy when he knows he’s getting a bath? We’re guessing probably not. Most of our canine patients are not particularly enthusiastic about the process of getting bathed. And, to be honest, doggy bathtime isn’t always very fun for people, either. We can help! Here, a Burlington, ON vet offers some helpful dog bathing hacks.

Do you end up getting soaked after bathing your pup? Get a clear shower curtain, and cut two holes in it. They should be about shoulder-length apart, going about four feet up from the bottom of the curtain. Hang this when bathing Fido, and put your arms through the holes. You’ll be able to see, but won’t get splashed as much.

Put a rubber mat down in the tub to keep Fido from scratching it. You may also want to clip your pup’s nails before his beauty ritual.

One reason many dogs dislike baths is because they have at some point gotten soap in their eyes. Ouch! Use a pitcher or teapot to rinse your canine pal’s head and face. Or, just use a washcloth.

Some dogs actually run and hide when they hear the B-word. You may want to work with Fido a bit, to help him form a more ‘pawsitive’ opinion of being bathed. Call your pooch into the bathroom, and have him get into the tub. Then, offer him a yummy treat. Choose something he doesn’t get too often, like steak. After a few repeat occurrences, your furry friend may very well have a miraculous change of heart!

Get a shower caddy, and dedicate it to holding Fido’s grooming supplies. That way, you won’t have to run around to find everything.

Fido will likely shake himself as soon as he gets out of the tub. This may result in your whole bathroom getting soaked. Putting some old towels down on the floor may help. You can also get a few thick plastic sheets to protect your walls. Choose ones that are sturdy, so you just need to lean them up against the wall. Of course, in summer, you may be able to bathe your pooch in a kiddie pool or at a doggy wash. Problem solved!

Please contact us, your Burlington, ON vet clinic, for all your pup’s veterinary care needs. We’re happy to help!