What Can I Use for Washing a Puppy?

When you start introducing the bathtub and grooming processes at a young age, though not less than 5 weeks of age, puppies can grow into adult dogs who enjoy baths, and consider it fun, quality time with their human companions. Make the bathing experience pleasant for your dog and easy on you by preparing in advance. If you have any concerns about the most appropriate bathing regimen or products for your particular dog̵7;s needs, consult your vet.

  1. Shampoo

    • Select a dog shampoo specifically formulated for puppies. Don't use human shampoo, and avoid shampoos that contain chlorhexidine or insecticides, which can be damaging to a puppy̵7;s delicate skin. Choose an oatmeal shampoo or another gentle formula with ingredients, like citrus oil, pyrethrin or pyrethrum, all of which can help eliminate fleas while cleaning your dog. Plan to put a drop of mineral oil in your pup̵7;s eyes before the bath to help soap from causing irritation.

    Bathing Supplies

    • For best results, bathe your puppy inside in a bathtub or large sink, rather than outside with a garden hose. This helps you regulate water and air temperature, and ensures your dog̵7;s comfort. Use a rubber slip mat in the tub, so your pup feels secure, and purchase a hand-held shower nozzle to help you reach every part of your puppy. Also, have on hand petroleum jelly to put around your pup̵7;s eyes to help bead away water, and place cotton balls in his ears to protect against water getting into his ear canal. If your pup is rambunctious or doesn't like baths, consider buying a bathing tether to help keep him safe and secure.

    Grooming Supplies

    • You might find it beneficial to use a soft brush or shampoo shower nozzle for lathering up your puppy. Start with the head, and work your way to the tail and legs. Rinse your dog thoroughly, allow him to shake off excess water, and then blot him with an absorbent towel. If you have a pup with long or curly hair, apply a puppy conditioner or detangler and brush it through his fur. A slicker brush can be helpful for removing mats. You may choose to dry your pup with a cool-air, hand-held or cage-mounted doggie hairdryer -- human blow-dryers often are too hot for a dog's skin. Brush your pup as you're drying to avoid tangles.

    Troubleshooting

    • Introduce your puppy to bathing gradually, so he doesn̵7;t develop an aversion to it. Let him smell your grooming tools, or put him in a warm bath to play and get used to the feel of water before getting out the shampoo. Use treats to reinforce the activity as fun and rewarding. Touch his feet, ears and mouth regularly to get him comfortable with being handled. This will make the bathing process easier.

    Other Bathing Tips

    • While dogs should be brushed daily, they only need to be bathed a few times a year unless they are primarily outside or are prone to getting dirty. In fact, over-bathing can remove natural oils from your dog̵7;s coat and lead to dry, itchy skin. Your vet may recommend a mineral oil supplement if your puppy develops this problem.