Happy Bath

During summer we take out our dogs to play in the forest, the beach, the ocean…. A good bath experience following can be crucial for our dogs and us. Don’t punish yourself for having a muddy and wet playtime. Instead adopt a positive method for bath time.

From the beginning we gave Knudsen every chance to enjoy his bath. We had heard often of dogs that were scared of bath time…

We didn’t want this. We had every confidence in Dove’s Game method. Maintain a confident and upbeat demeanor throughout. Use treats to reward your dog.

Because in our household we are still learning as dog owners we don’t wash Knudsen’s head… an area including eyes, ears and nose is particularly sensitive. We found if you are not extra confident it is best to avoid this area and leave it to the professionals.

If the puppy’s ears need washing, I can schedule a time separate. Start out with calling your dog to you and asking him to jump into the tub. Give your dog a high value treat as soon as they perform.

Go to Dove’s module to call your dog.

If your dog jumps out early from the tub, don’t force him back, but bait your dog with a high value treat. Keep the treats coming as your pup is washed. Be gentle yet firm to keep your dog stationary*.

I find a plastic cup kept by the tub is useful to rinse out the soap. Knudsen loves being rubbed down with the towel. So we are sure to make a big deal of this!

Use a suitable gentle soap. Dog soaps are tested to be gentle on puppies and dogs, however; common sense and even invention will bring you far. Microfiber cloths are great for small jobs.”Go to bath!” – if you make the bath a game your dog will look forward to the next hose down. Try “go to bath”, when your puppy isn’t dirty or wet. Feeding time in the tub? Why not? Put the bowl down into the tub after your dog hops in.

Teaching your dog to stay at the front door will allow you to fetch a towel before the floors are ruined by a dripping dog. Hey you don’t even have to let your dog know this is serious business. Check out “Boundary Training”

Drop us a line of your favourite bath methods and your favorite bath time stories!

We hope this is of help!

* a firm hand means holding your dog so he or she can rely on your touch. If you are unsure look into the many good dog training books for a good method. Don’t pull or punish. Pain will not help your dog and may even make them fearful. If you are working with a trainer, they can help instruct a confident bath time method. Include it in your next lesson. Good Luck!