How to Make the Dog Take the Plunge - Successfully Bathing Your Dog

Pet dogs. You just got to love them, especially when it’s bath time when you yourself

get a good amount of exercise from chasing your pet around.

So how do you make the dog take the plunge and make sure that it does each time?

Below are some helpful tips to a successful bath time with your dog.

Things to do before bathing the dog

It’s a great idea to give your dog a long walk before bathing to help it become more

relaxed and calm. It will also become less likely to resist.

Be sure to have every item you need before the bath such as towels, shampoo,

conditioner, and have them within reach from the tub. Also set the right temperature for

your dog beforehand.

During bathing

Treat the bathing process as a bonding activity between you and the dog. That’s why

keep a positive attitude and make the dog feel your love and affection while bathing it.

The best way to start the bathing process is just to pick it up without having to call, drag

or pleading with it. Put a leash on the dog, and simply lead it to the bathroom. Gently

start wetting your dog on a gradual manner. This also helps in minimizing resistance.

Start wetting from the neck and shoulders and go down lower to the rest of its body.

Apply shampoo and conditioner gently, and be careful not to hit your dog’s skin with

your fingernails.

Rinse thoroughly and ensure that no shampoo or conditioner residue is left to avoid

irritation.

It’s also a good idea to bring along some toys to the tub to make bathing a happy,

playful experience for the dog.

After bathing

Dry your dog well with a towel. You can also use a blow dryer to gently dry the dog. Be

sure to have someone secure the house to ensure that the dog doesn’t come dashing

out of the house as soon as bath time is over.

Make the dog feel that bathing isn’t something to fear or worry about. Just be calm and

let out a loving and caring feeling that your dog can pick up.