When you see people dog washing on Television and Netflix, most of the time it seems like both the dog and their parents are happy, and having a fun-filled time laughing and smiling. Unfortunately, washing your dog in real life isn’t always a pawsitive experience and has most people asking Alexa or Siri to call the best dog groomers near me.
Most Dog breeds like being dirty and stinky — in fact, the dirtier the better and many aren’t afraid to put up a fight if they think that it will help them get out of having a dog bath. Our Golden Retriever Lucy will run madly around the yard or house making you chase her as soon as she sees the dog shampoo come out. Contrary to popular belief, watching someone on television chase a dog around at bath time may be funny but doing it yourself – not so much!
Here are our top recommendations on how to make animal grooming fun that will take a little of the stress off you and your puppy and won’t take a big bite out of your wallet!
“Anybody who doesn’t know what soap tastes like, never washed a dog.” — Franklin P. Jones
Start when they’re puppies
If you have a puppy, start bathing him or her as soon as possible. They will be more open to the experience when they are younger because quite honestly, they don’t know any better yet. By getting them used to water and baths early on, you will have less trouble later. Start by getting them used to hopping into an empty tub and just spending time there while you give them treats or toys, and work your way up to adding nice lukewarm water.
Have Positive Energy
Dogs are very good at reading people’s energy level. If you are nervous, your dog will sense that and think they should be nervous too. If you are happy, they are happy, if you are in control, they feel safe. Dogs in many ways are more in-tune with your emotions than even you are. Be calm, have good energy and your dog will feel comfortable.
Be Towel Ready
“Nothing in the world is friendlier than a wet dog.”
First off – let your dog have a good shake in a shake friendly area! This helps them get all the loose water off and be ready with the towels to give them a good dry off after. It usually takes us three towels to give our dogs ears, undercarriage and back a good rub.
Golden Retriever Lucy shaking water off after a dog bath
Give your Dog a good Brush
Use a good dog brush. Brushing your dog not only helps keep your dogs coat shiny, they love the massage the brush gives them as well. Our favorite dog grooming tool is the Furminator which you can find at many pet stores including PetSmart. Brushing your dog not only allows you to spend quality time with your puppy, they love the massage and soothing feeling when you gently brush their fur! A handy tip especially for dogs that have long hair – make sure they are dry first before you brush!
Be Proactive
Give your Dog a quick Rinse off after a walk or play at the beach. There are not many mobile dog grooming equipment systems available that are portable and easy to use however we use the K9 Clean Portable Dog Shower for our dog. It allows you to fill it with warm water and with its simple design, gives you a great option to gently wash your dog’s dirty paws after a muddy walk or play at the beach. It’s also great to use in the winter months to wash the road salt, dirt and grime off their paws!
Portable Dog Wash System
If your dog still has a hard time enjoying his baths, try to give him a toy or a special treat during grooming time. We found a cool toy called the K9 Bath Buddy which helps keep your dog occupied and gives them a special treat at the same time! Grooming your pet once about every four to six weeks, whether at home or with a professional dog groomer, will keep your pet happy and healthy. Be sure to check them regularly for ticks, fleas and dry patches or problems with nails, ears and eyes.
