To bathe a dog at home, brush out loose hair and tangles first, use lukewarm water, wet the coat completely, lather with a shampoo made for dogs while avoiding the eyes and ears, rinse until the water runs clear, then towel and dry your dog fully before it goes outside in cold weather. Most dogs only need a bath every few weeks or when they are dirty.
Bath time does not have to be stressful. With a bit of preparation and the right products, it can be quick and calm for you and your dog.
How often should you bathe a dog?
It depends on the coat, skin and lifestyle. Many dogs do well with a bath every four to eight weeks, plus quick cleanups in between. Bathing too often can dry the skin. Dogs with skin conditions may need a schedule set by their vet.
What do you need?
- A shampoo made for dogs: a gentle 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner for most dogs, a puppy shampoo for young dogs, or a pH-balanced shampoo for sensitive skin
- A brush for before the bath, such as a self-cleaning slicker brush
- A silicone bath brush to spread shampoo and massage the coat
- Two or three towels and a non-slip mat for the tub
- Treats, or a lick mat stuck to the tub wall
Do not use human shampoo: it is made for human skin, which has a different pH.
Step by step: bathing your dog
- Brush first. Water makes tangles and mats tighter, so remove them before the bath.
- Prepare the area. Put a non-slip mat in the tub, have everything within reach and close the bathroom door.
- Check the water. It should feel lukewarm on the inside of your wrist.
- Wet the coat from the neck down to the tail and legs, keeping water out of the ears and eyes.
- Shampoo. Lather gently, paying attention to the belly, legs and paws. Use a damp cloth for the face.
- Rinse well. Leftover shampoo can irritate the skin, so rinse until the water runs clear.
- Dry. Squeeze water out with your hands, then towel dry. If you use a hair dryer, keep it on a low, cool setting and away from the face.
- Reward. Finish with a treat and a calm moment.
Bathing in a Canadian winter
Make sure your dog is completely dry before going outside, especially for dogs with thick coats, where the undercoat can stay damp for hours. Plan baths for the evening, after the last long walk. Between baths, a waterless option such as no-rinse dry shampoo foam or waterless paw cleaner helps with small messes and salted paws.
How to help a dog that hates baths
- Practise short "fake baths" with no water: step in the tub, get a treat, step out.
- Keep the water low and the sessions short.
- Use a lick mat to keep your dog busy.
- Stay calm and never force or punish your dog.
Brush after the coat is dry to remove loose hair: see how to reduce dog shedding at home. Find all our shampoos and brushes in the dog and cat grooming tools collection. Every order ships free across Canada.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bathe a puppy?
Yes, with a gentle puppy shampoo and lukewarm water. Keep baths short and dry the puppy well. Ask your vet about very young puppies.
Should I clean my dog's ears during the bath?
Keep water out of the ears during the bath and clean them separately: see how to clean your dog's ears at home.
Is it okay to bathe a dog in cold weather?
Yes, indoors, as long as you dry your dog completely and keep it warm until the coat is dry.
Written by Hicham, Zootly. This article is general information and does not replace advice from your veterinarian or groomer.