How to bath dog
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Any tips for persuading a dog that bath time can be fun? New owner, chihuahua, he's very scared of the water, about 2 yrs old.
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There is not a lot you can do to a dog that is adverse to water; they will always be, to some extent, adverse to water. You may want to consider shelling out the $40 to have a professional groomer bathe him/her.
That said, you should practice having him/her in the tub or sink that is, if that is their bathing spot, with no water running at first. Running water can be scary for dogs, especially with a high-pressure faucet. Try putting down an inexpensive rubber bath mat so they don’t slip (slipping can add to nervousness). While she is engrossed in working on a bone stuffed with peanut butter, gently massage and brush him/her as if they were being bathed so he/she is used to the feeling. Keep practicing this in short sessions until they are calm.
Once your dog is calm in the sink/tub, introduce water by taking a container of warm water gently pouring it on one of your dog’s feet.
Gradually increase the length of time in the tub and the amount of water used until you can give a full bath. -
If your kitchen sink is big enough, then you might want to do it there.
Slippery surfaces are bad as they scare the dog. Think how you feel walking on very slippery ice, then add a bath to it.
Warm water, don't want to burn or freeze the dog.
Talk to your dog the whole time. In a calm, loving voice.
Hold your dog the entire time. Only use a light touch as this is comforting. Plus, studies have shown they are less likely to jump out of the bath while they are being touched.
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Take care with the ears. Mine got an infection because i let water in, the rest is like a humam shower, whater and soap.
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Pour some distilled vinegar in your dog's ears after his/her bath. It helps clean them, but also helps prevent water based ear infections.
