How to Wash a New Puppy

For the most part, a mommy dog is adequately equipped to care for all of her puppy's needs. This includes feeding, warming and bathing the puppy. The mother will lick and groom the puppies until they are spotlessly clean. Unfortunately, the floor inside a whelping box can become soiled with urine and feces, which comes in contact with the puppy's fragile skin. In this case, the mother will require a little assistance to bathe her newborn puppy.

Things You'll Need

  • Water
  • Bath water thermometer
  • Puppy shampoo
  • Cup
  • Towel
  • Hairdryer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill a kitchen or bathroom sink half full of warm water. The water should be around 100 degrees Fahrenheit or else the puppy may become too cold or too hot. Test the water with a thermometer intended for a baby's bath water.

    • 2

      Place the puppy into the water, making sure to not immerse its head.

    • 3

      Pour a small amount of puppy or dog shampoo into your hand and work it into the puppy's entire body, minus the head.

    • 4

      Drain the water from the sink and quickly refill it half way with warm water, all the time keeping the puppy inside the sink. Rinse the puppy's fur with this water by gently pouring water over it with your cupped hands.

    • 5

      Drain the water from the sink and refill it a second time. Rinse the puppy's skin once again. This will ensure that all of the soap is removed.

    • 6

      Remove the puppy from the sink and quickly wrap it in a towel. Hold the puppy's body, still wrapped in the towel, over the sink with one hand and pour a small amount of warm water over the puppy's head with a cup. Keep the puppy's head and nose down to ensure that no water falls into the puppy's nose or eyes.

    • 7

      Rub a small amount of puppy shampoo into the top of the puppy's head and the rest of its face, making sure to not allow any soap up the puppy's nose or in its eyes.

    • 8

      Rinse the soap away with the cup, once again remembering to keep the puppy's head and nose down to avoid any water from entering its nose or eyes.

    • 9

      Remove the towel from the puppy and place it on a flat surface. Dry the puppy off with a hairdryer that is set on "low." Hold the hairdryer several inches away from the puppy to ensure that it does not become overheated.

    • 10

      Place the puppy back in with its mother once it is completely dry.