Bathing your dog may not be the most fun chore to do, but I have a few tricks that will make it a little easier. When it comes to completing chores, I am all about making them easier!
Before you even think about rounding up your pup to give him a bath, be sure to get all your supplies ready. The first time you wash your dog without being prepared, you will never forget the towels again! Be sure to have shampoo and appropriate grooming tools, depending on the type of pooch you are bathing.
1- Use the kitchen sink
When we had a Cairn Terrier, he was spoiled and always had his baths in the kitchen sink. How I love to wash little dogs! No bending required! I fill up the sink with lukewarm water, get all my shampoo and towels ready. Then, since most dogs don’t willingly come to have a bath, put a leash on your pup and lead him to the kitchen. Depending on how they behave, I usually leave the collar on to wash the dog and take it off after to clean it. Be sure to utilize the sink sprayer to get under your pup. Just watch out for the inevitable water shake off. I usually clean off the whole kitchen counter, especially if there are clean dishes nearby.
2- Get a professional dog grooming tub that won’t break your back or your bank
Depending on your need, especially if you own a dog that needs to be groomed frequently, buying a grooming tub from a pet supply company may be worth it financially and physically. Another option is to put a wash tub or kiddie pool up off the ground onto a platform or Saw horses.
3- Big dogs need big space- use the bed of your pick up truck
I learned about this genius trick just by being in the right place at the right time. My son and I were taking a walk with our Border Collie and one of our neighbors had his German Shepherd in the back of the pick up truck. It took me a few minutes to figure out that his dog was getting a bath. The pick up truck was just the right height for the owner and the dog so there was no bending involved. Of course, this is a great way to bathe your dog in spring and summer, but up in New England, that would only work all year long if you parked your truck in a headed garage and had warm water hose hookup. Not only does your dog get clean, the bed of your pick up truck does too!
Have you found some great ways to give you dog a bath? I’d love to hear them!
Happy Bathing!
