Have you ever found yourself running after your dog only to try to wrestle them into the bathtub?
If so, you aren’t alone.
Not all dogs love baths; well, most dogs don’t like baths, but some dogs hate baths.
Both Calvin & Ginger used to be in the bath-hating club, but I am very thankful they are no longer members.
Calvin detests water.
He even avoids puddles when we are out walking and hates going out when it’s raining.
Ginger used to be afraid of the water regardless of if it was a lake, ocean, or the equally scary bathtub.
Over time I was able to change Ginger’s association towards the water so that she was no longer afraid.
And Calvin, we just figured out ways to make bathtime a bit less detestable, enough so that he doesn’t keep trying to escape the tub.
Why Does Your Dog Hate Baths?
Dog’s feelings towards water come in a variety of forms and levels.
Some dogs are like Calvin and don’t love water. They aren’t afraid of it, but it’s just not their thing.
Other dogs, like Ginger, are fearful of water.
Their fear can manifest in several different forms, from shaking in the corner to aggression[1].
So, for the first step on how to get your water-hating dog smelling better, we first need to figure out why your dog doesn’t love baths.
Now, you’re wondering how to figure that out. “My dog doesn’t talk,” you say.
And likely they don’t, but dogs do attempt to communicate with us.
We need to be patient enough to decipher what they are saying. It’s all about reading their body language.
The reason it is essential to know why your dog is reacting the way they do towards bath time will aid in deciding this solution would fit best.
For example, sometimes it’s as simple as adjusting the bathwater temperature, providing a non-slip mat so they feel more secure in the tub, or sometimes it’s all about making a bathtub all about the treats.
Short-Term Fixes
There are some great easy non-water oriented ways to get your dog smelling better.
It will not replace a full-on bath, but until you can safely get your dog into the tub, these solutions will work well.
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Unless, of course, your dog encountered a skunk or rolled in dead fish or something.
I have not had to experience either of those things, but my dogs, especially Calvin, love to roll in deer droppings and dead animals.
Yep, dogs can be so gross!
Before using any of the products below, I suggest thoroughly brushing out your dog to help remove loose dead hair, dirt, and debris.
If your dog will allow it, lightly spray the brush with water to help decrease static, which can cause tangles.
And if their bed hasn’t been washed, well, your dog will get stinky again in no time!
Product Recommendations
Wahl Pet Friendly Waterless No-Rinse Shampoo
Not only does this shampoo smell fresh and amazing, but it also does a great job cleaning your dog’s coat.
Wahl Waterless No-Rinse Shampoo is like a mousse that you gently massage into your dog’s hair.
After you have finished, brush your dog out again, to aid in removing hair and dirt that was loosened up when you applied the shampoo.
If your dog is particularly nervous, try their lavender and chamomile version to help soothe your dog’s nerves.
Pros
- Easy to use and almost as good as a traditional bath
- Comes in a variety of scents
Cons
- Might be too much moisture for dogs opposed to water
Rufus & Coco Natural Dry Shampoo
This shampoo comes in a powder form and does not require any moisture.
This makes it ideal for dogs who find the mousse or sprays too much to handle.
Rufus & Coco dry shampoo absorbs dirt and oils, plus deodorizes all at the same time.
Pros
- Penetrates the coat and absorbs dirt and oils efficiently
Cons
- The powder can be a bit messy
Furbliss Pet Wipes
Furbliss pet wipes are great if your dog is opposed to the mousse and you don’t want the mess that can come with powdered shampoos.
Pros
- Easy no mess solution
Cons
- Doesn’t clean as thoroughly as shampoos applied directly to the coat
How to Keep Your Dog Calm
If your dog is nervous like Ginger, before bathing your dog, you may consider using something to help soothe their nerves.
However, if your dog is on prescription medications, check with your vet before giving your pup any supplements.
NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid
I used NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid chews for years for Sophie before her anxiety required prescription medication.
It is best to give them their chews 1/2 hour before bath time.
If you give these to your dog after they are upset, they don’t work as well.
Pros
- Easy to administer since they are flavored chews
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- They are not intended for dogs with severe anxiety
Bluecare Labs Hemp Calming Chews
If you have a dog that responds well to hemp-based products, Bluecare Hemp calming chews may help dogs with moderate anxiety levels.
Again, give it a 1/2 hour or so before you attempt to bathe your dog.
Pros
- Contains organic hemp seed oil, hemp protein, chamomile, and passion flower
Cons
- Not hypoallergenic
Adaptil Calming Spray
Pheromone scent therapy has been around for years and is endorsed by certified veterinarians[2].
I prefer the Adaptil calming spray.
It’s good for dogs who are nervous about car travel, too.
You have to spray it on an object 15 minutes before using it with your dog. Don’t spray it directly onto your puppy! Occasionally dogs will suffer from severe anxiety and may require prescription medication. Sophie and Ginger are both on anti-anxiety medications, not because of baths, but for other anxiety problems. At first, I was hesitant to use prescription medicine because I didn’t want a zombie dog, but Trazadone doesn’t knock them out, it just relaxes them. I have been asked several times about how to make bathtime less traumatic for all parties involved. Below are several simple adjustments that promote a more positive bath experience for everyone. Make bathtime a positive experience. At bathtime in our house, Ginger will now try and get into the bathtub because she knows there will be treats. Yes, it would be fine if she crawled into the tub on her own if she hadn’t already had her bath. Because first, it’s not a game, and no one is having fun. Plus, when you are chasing your dog around, you are adding to your level of frustration, and that’s never the right way to start any project. Also, it is quite likely your dog was already afraid of bathtime and chasing them while projecting frustration has only reinforced their fear. No judgment. We’ve all been there! Keyword: Calmly! The best thing you can do is keep their energy level low. I don’t know how many times people find it odd their dog doesn’t like baths when they are using freezing cold water. I know I wouldn’t like it. Often that is enough to make bathtime bearable. Again, would you like that? If your dog is particularly resistant to this, use a washcloth instead. Also, you can use a warm damp washcloth on their face to wipe down around their eyes and muzzle. They are not resisting you because they want to irritate you. They are uncomfortable with the bath and getting frustrated with them will only add to their discomfort. Extremely fearful dogs may require desensitization training. If so, seek a certified dog trainer who uses positive reinforcement tactics for help. Try putting them in the shower with you[3]. Sophie has horrible allergies and requires a bath every other week during flareups. One day I was running short on time and wondered how she would do in the shower. So, I jumped in the shower with her. It went by way faster and easier than bathing her. I think Sophie prefers showers to baths since they are faster. Not all dogs will be okay in a shower. Calvin and Ginger prefer the bathtub. Try and choose a time that the household is a bit quieter. Maybe after the kid’s bathtime when everyone is winding down. Draining some of your dog’s excess energy will also help decrease bath time drama. A tired dog can be more agreeable than one that has been sitting in their crate all day. A major game-changer was putting a bathmat into the tub for Calvin; it gave him a sense of security. Dogs have a hard time not slipping in porcelain bathtubs. There are several facilities that you can bring your dog and bathe them at their facility. The do-it-yourself grooming places are set up to make bathtime easier for both you and your dog. Sometimes, just having the right tools can make a big difference. Also, there are usually staff members that are happy to assist you if you need an extra hand. Bath time doesn’t have to be a nightmare for you and your pup. An important thing to keep in mind is that bathtime for a dog means licking their fur, not jumping into a tub. Bathing a dog is not a natural action for your dog so that it can be scary and uncomfortable, and even more so if your dog isn’t a fan of water. Do your best to make bathtime a positive and calm experience. You will both be happier for it!Pros
Cons
Prescription Medication
Pros
Cons
The Do’s and Don’ts of Bathtime
Other Tips
Shower
Create a Calm Environment
Go for a Long Walk
Bathmat
Do it Yourself Grooming
Conclusion
References
