How to Bathe a Puppy or Small Dog

Baths can be frightening experiences for puppies and small dogs, especially if they've never been bathed before. Many times they find themselves immersed up to their backs in soapy water and their feet slipping on the bottom of the tub or basin. This can cause the puppy or small dog extreme distress. Bath-time doesn't need to be stressful for either you or your dog. There are a few things you can do to make a bath a pleasant experience for both of you.

Things You'll Need

  • Pin brush
  • Rubber mat
  • Gentle dog shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Sprayer or large plastic cup
  • Towel
  • Hair dryer (optional)
Show More

Instructions

  1. Getting Ready

    • 1

      Brush your puppy with the pin brush to remove dirt and loose hair from its coat. If your puppy has a long coat, be certain to remove any knots or tangles from behind its ears, from under its armpits and from under its tail.

    • 2

      Select a place to bathe your dog. Small dogs and puppies may feel most comfortable being bathed in the kitchen sink or a utility sink.

    • 3

      Place the rubber mat at the bottom of the sink. Mats that have suction cups at the corners can help your puppy feel more secure.

    • 4

      Fill the sink with a few inches of warm water.

    • 5

      Place shampoo and towel within easy reach of the sink.

    Bath Time

    • 6

      Adjust the temperature of the water. It should be warm, not hot. Starting at the back of the dog's head and moving to the dog's rear, use the sprayer or the cup to soak the coat. Be certain to soak the dog's chest, stomach and under the tail.

    • 7

      Place some shampoo into your cupped hand. Apply the shampoo to the dog's coat in a single stroke down its back.

    • 8

      Work the shampoo into your dog's coat with your fingertips. Do not scrub the dog's skin with your fingernails. Puppies in particular have delicate skin. You don't want to scratch your puppy or small dog and make it fearful of baths.

    • 9

      Let the shampoo stand in the dog's coat for up to five minutes. Keep your hands on the dog at all times, speaking to it quietly and stroking it as much as it is necessary to keep it calm.

    • 10

      Rinse the dog's coat thoroughly using the sprayer or plastic cup. The water should run completely clear from your puppy's coat and you should be unable to see any lather or feel any soap residue when you are finished rinsing.

    • 11

      Apply conditioner. Rinse thoroughly.

    • 12

      Remove your puppy from the sink. Wrap it in the towel.

    • 13

      Gently massage your puppy until its coat is free of excess water.

    • 14

      Remove the towel. Allow puppy to air dry or blow dry with a cool hair dryer on low speed, as preferred.