BATHTIME

THE BATH

Dogs want to feel safe and secure and if your dog is afraid of bath time, there are some things you can do to help them work through their fears. In short sessions ahead of time (not on days you’re actually giving a bath) tun the water with your dog next to you. It’s best to not use a lot of words, and just keep your energy calm and relaxed. This gives them the opportunity to hear the sound, but not associate it with anything they think might be scary. It may take a few sessions for your dog to learn that running water = a rewarding & relaxing time, but they’ll make that association with a little patience. Feel free to offer a treat but ONLY if your dog is calm.

You can prepare your dog in the same way with the sound of the hair dryer – letting them be with you in short sessions, while the dryer is on. (A leash can be helpful so they don’t run off and hide.) The point of these practice sessions is to learn that nothing bad will happen. Likewise, you can get your dog used to getting brushed with short sessions, ending at a point when they’re not shaking or trying to run off. Words aren’t even necessary and always keep your energy calm and relaxed.

THE DOs and DON'Ts DURING BATHTIME

POSITIVE ACTIONS

DO use a non-slip mat.
DO remove any objects that might fall and startle them.
DO have shampoo, towel, and a glass or pitcher ready and available.
DO play soft, soothing music, if you’d like. It might be nice for both of you.
DO keep yourself calm and relaxed. They will feel your energy.
DO use fewer words in a calm, reassuring tone.
DO be sure the water temperature is warm but not hot, before you begin.
DO be sure the water pressure is good for your dog, and consider using a glass or pitcher.
DO start with your dog’s legs and move up to their body.
DO soap them calmly.
DO wash their face with a damp cloth if they aren’t ready for water on their head.
DO dry them thoroughly with a towel.
DO keep their first few baths short and let them get used to the new experience.
DO give them praise and massage as they learn to relax and enjoy the process.

ACTIONS TO AVOID

DO NOT pet a dog if he or she is trembling and don’t attempt to soothe in ways that we’d typically try to soothe a human child. Dog’s respond differently from humans and petting a dog makes them think that you actually want them to do more of whatever he/she is doing. Petting is a reward, and in their brain, getting a reward for a behavior tells them that we like whatever it is that they’re doing. You’d think that it would be reassuring to comfort a dog when they’re stressed (like it is to a human child), but instead, it solidifies the behavior.
DO NOT try to offer a treat when they are stressed. They’ll likely not take a treat when stressed anyway, and that’s an indicator that they’re working through their fears. It’s a good practice to only offer treats when your dog is calm & behaving in the way you want.
DO NOT start running the water abruptly, and avoid spraying the water very hard – especially if they’re showing signs of stress.
DO NOT end bath time when they’re fully stressed or trying to jump out. Try to end each experience on a good note.