It’s finally Spring. That means more time outside, more fresh air, more rain, more mud. And let’s be real, what dog doesn’t love the squish of mud between his toes? Okay, maybe your dog doesn’t, but being set up to give your dog a scrub when he does get dirty is never a bad thing.

Even if you’re team-groomers to scrub and groom your pup, there may be a time when you can’t get in right away and need to wash your dog at-home. If that’s the case, we’ve got some tips to help make bathtime go a little smoother for both of you.

First, get your supplies ready, that should include: a leash for leading your dog to the bathroom and maybe to use as a tie back, a brush, maybe a comb, dog safe shampoo, dog safe conditioner for long fur, a wash cloth for your dog’s face or dog face wipes (yes, this is a thing), a non-slip mat or towel for your dog to stand on in the tub/shower, a cup/bowl for rinsing if you don’t have a handheld spray attachment, and lots of towels. Optional tools that you may want to have on hand, a drain cover or steel wool to keep fur from clogging up your drain, a blowdryer if your dog is okay with it, a lick mat to stick on the side of the tub to keep your pup occupied and happy.

Second, make sure you close the door once you and your dog are in the bathroom. A wet, soapy dog is not fun to chase down the hall and try to get back into the tub/shower. Do yourself a favor and get your supplies in the bathroom first, then get your dog and close that door.

Now on to the scrubbing, well, not quite yet. Before you get your dog wet, be sure to brush and comb her. Get as much shedding and matted fur off your dog as possible before starting to scrub. Once that is done, you are ready for water. But please don’t spray or pour water over your dog’s head. That’s what the washcloth or wipes are for, to clean her sensitive face and to avoid getting water in her ears.

Turn on the water, wet your dog down and start scrubbing. Work down from the neck/shoulder area and be sure to get your dog’s belly, legs and paws. Now rinse, rinse again and one more time. Again, start at the neck/shoulders and work down. It is very important that you get all the soap out of your dog’s fur so that there is no skin irritation. So, check carefully and thoroughly before moving on. If you’re unsure, rinse again.

Now that you and your dog are both wet, grab those towels and start drying. You may find yourself amazed at how much water your dog’s fur will hold on to. So make sure you have several towels on hand, 3 to 5 depending on your dog’s size, and start drying. If your dog is okay with a blowdryer, now is the time to use it. Be sure to keep the dryer on a low heat setting to keep your dog’s skin happy.

While we don’t offer grooming services, if you need help recalling your dog away from the muddy puddle or help with leash pulling through the long wet grass, we’ve got you covered. Just reach out and let us know how we can help.

Canine Sports Dog Training