If your dog is concerned about having a bath then it’s possible that your dog suffers from a kind of dog anxiety, which includes a phobia of water, or that they have a fear of losing control.

Where to Bath your Dog.

Select the bath tub or washing sink to bath your dog. Which you choose to use will be dependent on your dog’s size. On hotter days you might need to bathe your dog outside using a garden hose on low pressure.

Water Temperature.

Water temperature can be a important factor in your dogs fear of bath time. The water should be temped. That is that you can not feel it as hot or cold, test the temperature of the water on your wrist before putting it to your dog.

Anti Slip Protection.

Another reason why your dog fears bath time is that they do not feel safe. Dogs enjoy being safely on four feet and any chance of slipping is sure to make them more concerned. You can use an anti slip bath mat or just employ a towel in the base of the bath and this will make your dog feel more safe and secure.

The proper way to apply the water when you give your dog a bath.

The best thing you can do when bathing your dog is to start wetting their feet first and slowly work up the legs, then under the belly, across the back and ultimately over the top of the head. Watch out not to have the water running to powerful and don’t ever have the water running over the muzzle or eyes.

It is better to clean the snout and round the eyes with a wash cloth and make sure you don’t have running water around those areas. If you run water directly over the dogs face they may panic. You may also need to take care do not put any water in your dogs ears. Water in the ear canal can cause infection.

Your Approach to Washing Your Dog.

When washing your dog always be in a happy state of mind, be tranquil and praise your dog continually. Comments like “good boy” in a quiet consistent voice will help your dog feel safe.

If your dog tries to jump up or get out of the bath, understand this is their reaction to a situation they feel they don’t have any control over.

Just say “No, get down” in a quiet and voice, lowering your tone so they know that you are not pleased.

As fast as they get down, or if you help the dog to get down and back in the bath, give more praise. This way they’re going to be in a position to identify what you’re expecting of them.