Does your dog love water, but hate having a bath? Or maybe they just hate water and baths together 😬 It’s funny how some dogs love playing in the water, but bath time is feared.
Common Reasons Dogs Fear Baths
We can only assume why a lot of dogs don’t like baths, some potential reasons include;
- Confined space – either in a bath, tub, hydrobath and/or on a lead so they can’t escape or get away, there is a lack of choice/escape route
- Slippery surface (tub/shower) can be scary
- Temp and feel of the water – e.g. the pressure
- The smell of the shampoo/rinse
- The sound of running water particularly in a tub or hydrobath can echo. Hydrobaths can be loud due to the pump.
- The feeling of being ‘shampooed’ or any type of rigorous rubbing, some dogs can be more sensitive to that type of touch
It may be a combination of things that have led to a dog not liking baths. A single bad experience can have a lifetime effect!
Helping Your Dog Learn to Enjoy Bath Time
How do we make it easier for our dogs (or puppies) to learn to eventually like having a bath?
- Go slowly!
- Use a sponge/cloth and bucket rather than a hose or bathtub. Introduce a sponge with water small amounts at a time, pair with something nice. Often just running a wet cloth over a dog while pairing with treats or a lickimat can be a good start.
- Gradually increase the amount of water on the cloth at each session.
- If using a bath, tub or hydro bath, get them used to it by gradually introducing it, pairing it with super high value food. Your dog should willingly move/jump in and out of the area. Do this before water or products are introduced.
- Avoid ‘making’ your dog. Choice is valuable to create good experiences.
- Use lick mats, smear food onto tiles, use a spoon coated in something, anything to create a positive association for your dog.
- While you are spending time gradually desensitising your dog to a bath area, water or product, you can get dry shampoos and dog wipes until they are more comfortable having a bath.
If you need further help, contact a qualified trainer for a specific plan.