Getting Your Dog to Enjoy Baths

Weekly or monthly baths are necessary for dogs, especially pets with allergies or skin issues. Make baths fun for dogs so you both stop dreading the inevitable.

How to Make Bath Time Fun

Choose a Non-Slip Surface

It’s important for dogs to have traction when given a bath because slipping and sliding is downright scary. A suction-cupped bath mat works extremely well. Your dog won’t slip in water or shampoo plus the suction cups keep it firmly in place. Once your dog’s bath is done, pull up the mat and voila!

Don’t forget to provide a non-slip surface for your dog outside of the tub too. Many dogs shake excess water off and slip so let’s keep bath time safe and fun.

RELATED: How to Choose a Dog Ramp

Practice

Getting in and out of the tub or shower should be voluntary and fun for your dog. When getting dressed in the morning, randomly throw treats in the tub (on top of the bath mat). Trust me, your dog will find them. Allow him to navigate the slippery sides of the tub even if only his front feet touch down in the tub. You’re teaching tubs equal treats.

Over the next week or so, toss treats further back in the tub so your dog steps in and out. Again, don’t push or pull your dog. He should voluntarily walk into the tub and investigate.

When it’s bath time, throw a few treats in the tub and say “bath time.” If your dog has practiced several times, he will walk right in and eat the treats.

Smear Peanut Butter

Smear peanut butter or cream cheese alongside the tub or shower wall. Your dog will lick away while waiting for medicated shampoo to work its magic. You can use this trick if your dog is worried about running water or dislikes bath time. Once he licks off the peanut butter, add more until your dog’s bath is complete. This is also super simple to clean after your dog’s bath. Just spray a general cleaner and wipe. If your dog has a sensitive tummy, smear a canned version of his food along the tub wall.

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