How to Wash a Puppy's Face

Working with a puppy can be a challenge, and bath time can bring out their worst behavior. Avoid bathing a puppy until it is three to four months old, and take care to avoid getting soap into its eyes and water in its ears. Because puppies have delicate skin, you should only use shampoos specifically formulated for puppies, and take extra care to rinse all of the soap out of their coats. Keep the experience short and pleasant for the puppy to avoid a life-long fear of bath time.

Things You'll Need

  • Puppy shampoo
  • Washcloth
  • Towel
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Instructions

    • 1
      Before any grooming, let your puppy burn off its pent-up energy.

      Play with your puppy long enough to tire it out. It is much easier to work with an animal that has exhausted its store of nervous energy.

    • 2
      A collar and leash help communicate to an animal that it is expected to behave.

      Place your puppy in a confined area such as a sink or large basin. If this is the first time the animal has been bathed, give it plenty of time to acclimate to the new surroundings. If your training sessions normally include a collar and leash, put these on the animal so it understands that play time is over.

    • 3

      Wet the washcloth with warm water. If the puppy's face is especially dirty, apply a small amount of puppy shampoo. Allow the puppy as much time as it wants to examine and smell the washcloth prior to using it.

    • 4

      Gently rub the cloth over the puppy's face and muzzle. Avoid covering its eyes, and do not allow water to enter the animal's ear canals as infection may result. Use a delicate touch, as a dog's nose and whiskers are sensitive areas. Reprimand the puppy immediately if it bares its teeth, growls or resists.

    • 5

      Rinse the washcloth to remove any soap or dirt and continue to wipe the puppy's face until dirt and soap have been removed. Some animals do not mind having warm water poured over their face and muzzle, but avoid wetting the ears and washing soap into the eyes.

    • 6

      Dry the animal's face gently with a towel. Praise it and give it a treat.