How to Bathe a Dog: Step-by-Step Tips

How to Bathe a Dog: Step-by-Step Tips

Bathing your dog is one of the important aspects of dog grooming. Some dogs feel happy to get bathed with lukewarm water and a mild shampoo while some dogs create a lot of trouble. Knowing how to wash a dog is always good to avoid making bathing time a stressful activity.

You never know when your Fido will roll over a muddy field or catch some parasites or dirt on him or don't know when your pet will face any circumstances that need pet grooming. 

Irrespective of the breed, size, or length of the hairs of the dogs, each dog needs occasional bathing that keeps them fresh, clean, and healthy.

Let us know in this article, how to make a stressful bathing time an enjoyable one.

How To Prepare Your Dog For Bathing?

Before turning on the tap, make sure that your dog is comfortable and ready to get bathed and enjoy the experience positively. Don't let your dog spread the water all around the yard or shower room.

Prepare your dog positively to make him feel less anxious and stress-free during bathing. You also need to brush your dog's coat so that the bathing process may not become uncomfortable for him.

Where To Bathe Your Dog?

First thing is to determine the right place to bathe your dog. Consider the size and breed of your dog to make sure that you have enough space and decide you want to bathe your dog indoors or outdoors or in the back yards.

  • The Kitchen Sink:

When you have a small breeded dog, you can think of bathing him in the kitchen sink as it puts him right at your level. You need to cover the drain.

  • The Bathtub Or Shower:

If you have a larger breed of dog and want him to bathe him indoors, you can opt for using a dog’s bathtub or shower. But if your dog sheds a lot, the drain may get clogged and you have to use a hair catcher or a strainer.

  • In The Yard:

You can wash your dogs outside, if there is plenty of space outside. But they need to be secured so that they don't run away here and there. Tie them with a leash.

  • Dog Bathing Stations:

You can opt for car washes and grooming salons that have self-service dog bathing stations. They have everything for washing and drying your dog and you are not left with any mess to clean up.

How to Bathe a Dog: Step-by-Step Instructions:

First make sure that you have all the bathing supplies handy. Follow the steps mentioned below to know how to bathe your dog in a stress-free way.

  • Brush Your Dog To Remove Mats:

If your dog has a medium to long fur coat, brush him before bathing as it removes mats and tangles.

  • Secure Your Dog (If Bathing Him Outdoors):

Your dog may run away during a bath. So use a leash, tie-out stake or grooming loop to secure them.

You can now brush the teeth of your dog. Brushing his teeth will make him healthy.

  • Place Cotton in Your Dog’s Ears: 

Put cotton balls on your dog’s ear while bathing him. The main cause of ear infection in dogs is due to the moisture in the ear canal. It affects dogs with floppy ears more than those with perky ears. 

  • Wet Your Dog:

Clean your dog’s rear with lukewarm water. Dog's skin is too sensitive, and water that is very hot or cold can dry it. Also make sure that he should not get soap into his eyes. 

  • Apply Dog Shampoo And Lather:

Before using the shampoo, read the instructions on the bottle. Start lathering at the tail area. Give extra attention to the dirtiest andsensitive areas like feet and genitals. Don't let the shampoo get into his face. It may irritate his sensitive nose or eyes. Use face wipes for dogs with short hairs. Wipe their face but take care of their eyes. If his face is too dirty, use a face shampoo, but avoid getting into eyes or nose.

  • Rinse Well: 

After using No rinse waterless shampoo on every part, rinse it off thoroughly including their face and paws. Don't just rinse once. Rinse them properly with some more water. Dog’s fur may hold the soap and may cause skin problems like irritation, flakiness, or infections. Pay attention to hidden areas.

  • Apply Conditioner And Rinse Well:

If your dog has long hair or dry skin, use a dog conditioner. It prevents tangles and soothes the skin. Apply it like a shampoo, avoid using near the eyes, and then rinse properly. For dogs with longer hair or dry skin. 

  • Remove the Cotton Balls:

Remove the cotton balls from his ears. Use an ear cleaner and take help of your vet to know how to do it. 


If your dog has a thick and long nails trim them after bathing and before drying as they become softer and easier to cut.

  • Apply Detangling Spray:

Use a detangling spray to add extra shine to your dog’s fur. Use it after bathing and before drying. 

  • Dry Your Dog:

Use thick towels to dry them properly. If you want to use a hairdryer, set it for a cool setting. Use a velocity drier for dogs that shed a lot.

How Often Should I Bathe a Dog?

Many dogs need a bath once or twice a month. Bathing your dog depends on various factors. 

Dogs with short hairs won't get dirty and few baths in a year is enough. If he sheds a lot, wash him once or twice a month.

Pups with medium to long hair need to be bathed every 4 to 6 weeks.

Washing him more often may dry out the skin. Use an extra gentle shampoo and conditioner.

Final Views: 

Bathing is essential for your dog as it keeps him clean and fresh. It removes dirt and parasites and makes him healthy. 

This article will let you learn about the steps to bathe your dog.

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