How To Give A Rescue Dog A Bath: Setting Yourself Up For Success, by Sara Ondrako on YouTube. 12 min 20 s.
- Video length
- 12 min 20 s
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Pick a gentle oatmeal shampoo with no added perfume or dyes. Strong scents can irritate a dog's skin and eyes, especially on a dog you just brought home.
Lay out everything before you start: towels within reach, shampoo open, washcloth, cup or shower head pulled down, and treats in your pocket.
Put a non-slip mat in the tub and run lukewarm water. Test it on your wrist first, since hot water can burn a dog's skin.
Bring the dog in calmly and let it stand for a moment. Speak softly and give a treat before any water touches it.
Wet the body from the neck back with the shower head or cup, keeping water out of the ears and eyes. Avoid blasting the face.
Work shampoo into the coat from neck to tail, then wash the legs and paws. Skip the head for now and keep the lather out of the eyes.
Clean the face with a damp baby washcloth, wiping gently around the eyes and nose. Do not pour water over the head.
Rinse until the water runs clear. Leftover shampoo can dry out the skin and cause itching.
Wrap the dog in a towel and pat dry, using a second towel for a big dog. Keep it warm and give a treat afterward.
Tips and common mistakes
Have treats within arm's reach so you never fumble while the dog is wet and nervous.
Keep the water lukewarm and the room warm, since a wet dog can get cold fast.
Never let a dog jump out of a wet tub on its own, as it can slip and get hurt.
Praise and treat during the bath, not just at the end, so the dog links bath time with good things.
Questions
Can I bathe a rescue dog right after adoption?
Yes, if it smells bad or is dirty. Keep the bath calm and short, and use a gentle shampoo. If the dog is very fearful, a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth can hold you over.
How often should I bathe my dog?
Most dogs do fine with a bath every four to eight weeks, or when they get dirty. Bathing too often with harsh shampoo can dry out the skin.
What if my dog tries to jump out of the tub?
Have a helper hold a leash or stand beside the tub. Use a non-slip mat, keep the bath short, and reward calm standing with treats.
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.
