Puppy Bathing Tips & Advice

Raising a puppy can be a challenging experience. If you're worried about bathtub battles with your puppy, focus on making baths as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Turning bath time into a rewarding experience for your puppy will help it look forward to getting in the tub instead of dreading it.

  1. When to Bathe

    • Check with your veterinarian to see when you can give your puppy its first bath. Some veterinarians recommend waiting until puppies, especially small breeds, are at least 10 weeks old. Be careful not to give your puppy a bath too often, such as once a week, since doing do can strip away natural oils that keep its coat shiny and healthy. Frequent bathing can also cause skin irritation. To be safe, only bathe your puppy when it smells or looks dirty. Determining how often to bathe your puppy also depends on its coat. Long-haired puppies need to be bathed more often to prevent their coats from becoming tangled.

    Getting Ready

    • Bathe small puppies in a sink or small washtub. Larger puppies can be bathed in bathtubs or outside in a wading pool or with a hose in warm weather. Always make sure the water is lukewarm. Place a rubber mat in the bathtub to keep your puppy from sliding. Have all supplies, including tearless dog shampoo and towels, on hand before you start bathing your puppy. Getting up or turning around to grab a towel or shampoo gives a squirmy puppy the chance to jump out of the bath.

    During Bathing

    • Give your puppy enthusiastic praise to make baths seem fun. Place cotton balls in your puppy's ears to prevent water from getting in. Wash your puppy's head last and dry that area first to reduce your puppy's urge to shake. Check your puppy's skin while bathing. Consult your veterinarian if you see or feel any rough patches or lumps. Wash and rinse carefully so you don't get soap or water in your puppy's eyes. You might want to use a measuring cup or pitcher with a pouring lip or a handheld showerhead for better control. Rinse thoroughly to avoid causing skin irritation from soap residue.

    After Bathing

    • Throw a towel over your puppy to protect your walls from getting soaked when your puppy shakes. Holding your puppy's head still limits the amount of shaking because this movement starts from the head. In cold weather, keep your puppy indoors until it's completely dry. If needed, use a blow dryer set at a warm or cold setting to help your puppy dry faster.