Why Your Dog HATES Baths (and How to Fix It), by Zak George on YouTube. 7 min 38 s.
- Video length
- 7 min 38 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Pick a quiet time and let your dog sniff the tub or shower area before you start. Put a non-slip mat down so your dog feels steady.
Gather everything first: shampoo, towels, a cup for rinsing and treats. Keep them within reach so you never leave your dog alone in the water.
Run the water and check it with your wrist. It should feel warm, not hot, around 37 to 38 degrees Celsius.
Wet your dog from the neck back, using the cup or a low shower head. Keep water out of the ears and eyes, and avoid the face.
Lather shampoo into the coat, working from the neck toward the tail. Massage gently and keep your voice calm and cheerful.
Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear. Leftover shampoo can cause itching, so check the belly, legs and armpits.
Wash the face with a damp cloth only, not running water. Wipe around the eyes and mouth carefully.
Wrap your dog in a towel and pat dry, then let them shake off in a safe spot. Use a low-heat dryer if your dog tolerates it.
Reward your dog with treats and praise right after the bath. Keep the next bath short and repeat the same calm routine.
Tips and common mistakes
Never leave your dog alone in the tub, even for a second.
Use dog shampoo only, since human shampoo can dry out a dog's skin.
Rinse more than you think you need to, because leftover soap causes itching.
Keep baths short and end on a good note so your dog learns to tolerate them.
Questions
How often should I bathe my dog?
Most dogs do well with a bath every 4 to 8 weeks. Dogs with skin issues or a lot of outdoor time may need more, so ask your vet.
Can I use human shampoo on my dog?
No. Human shampoo can irritate a dog's skin. Use a shampoo made for dogs.
What if my dog is scared of the bath?
Start with short sessions, keep water shallow and reward calm behavior with treats. Build up slowly over several baths.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
