How to Give a First Bath to a Yorkie Puppy

The first bath is an important experience for a Yorkshire Terrier puppy because it can either put them at ease and make weekly grooming easy or terrify them and make the process much more difficult. Above getting the dog completely clean, the first bath should be an exercise in puppy training for future grooming. A slow introduction to the elements of the bath like water, shampoo and a bathtub are the easiest way to let your puppy know that bath time is safe.

Things You'll Need

  • Plastic water basin
  • Mild dog shampoo
  • Blow dryer
  • Comb
  • Pitcher
  • Sponge or washcloth (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Comb the puppy's coat to remove any tangles or knots.

    • 2

      Place the puppy in the plastic basin and then in the bathtub or sink without any water for five minutes. Play with the puppy and maybe give it a treat to make it feel comfortable in the space.

    • 3

      Fill the pitcher with tepid water. A dog's skin is more sensitive to heat so use water that is a little less than warm to your touch.

    • 4

      Pour the water a little at a time into the basin with the dog. Put a little water in your hand and put it on the dog's paw or back. If the dog is nervous and trying to escape, stop and wait until it is calm. Fill the basin a quarter full with water.

    • 5

      Use the pitcher to scoop up the water in the basin and gently pour it over the puppy's body except the head, until the coat is all wet.

    • 6

      Dilute a little dog shampoo with water in the pitcher, agitate until it forms soap bubbles and pour it over the back of the puppy.

    • 7

      Massage the shampoo into the puppy's coat as if you were petting it. Use slow strokes with the grain of the hair without scrubbing or rubbing in a circular motion. Add more shampoo water on the legs and chest if needed.

    • 8

      Fill the pitcher with clean tepid water and rinse the puppy's body. Soap residue is very drying to the skin so rinse until there is no soap left and a little extra just to be sure.

    • 9

      Remove the soapy water from the basin and replace with clean water.

    • 10

      Use your hand, a sponge or washcloth to wet the puppy's head and face, massage in soapy water and rinse. Use a little water at a time and be careful not to get shampoo in the puppy's ears, nose or mouth.

    • 11

      Remove the puppy from the bath and wrap it in a towel. Hold the dog for a few minutes so that it feels secure.

    • 12

      Blow dry the hair on the cool setting until dry.