Bath time can be a last minute and crazy event when it comes to your dog. Half the time, it is an unscheduled event that throws your day for a loop because your furbaby decided to roll in something rather unpleasant. The other half of the time, you think you are prepared, but something inevitably happens to trigger a bathroom dripping in water, a dog splashing everywhere, or a bath-time cut short for one reason or another. Our guide will have your wash station ready for every bath, no matter your time restraint. 

Items to Have Stocked and In Arms Reach

High-Quality Dog Shampoo: Human shampoo is not created for animals. It has a different pH balance than what your dog’s skin needs to be cleaned with, even the baby shampoos shouldn’t be used on your pet. Talk to your groomer about the best products to choose from and take some home after your next appointment. If your dog has skin problems, you'll likely need a therapeutic shampoo that will address his condition. 

Bath Tool: Some bath tools reduce shedding by loosening ready-to-drop fur in the tub, and take your shampoo further by working it deep into the coat. They also give your dog a relaxing massage! 

Dog Brush: Even after using a bath tool, run the dog brush through your pup’s coat quick. 

Cotton Balls and Bland Eye Ointment: Prevent soap and water from getting in your dog’s ears and eyes with these simple groomer tricks. Cotton balls for the ears, and drops for the eyes can make bath time easier on everyone.

Steel Wool: Using steel wool as a drain stopper will let the water drain, but keep the dog hair from clogging the pipes.

Towels: Follow a three-towel-trick, keeping a towel on the ground to prevent slipping, one to be thrown over your dog’s back to prevent shaking in between the wash and the rinse, and a final towel used for drying. 

Treats: Reward your pup throughout his bath.

Leash: If at any time you need to gain better control, having a leash next to you will help.

Wall Hook: Consider installing a hook on the wall to link your dog’s leash to if bath time is a struggle. This will contain your dog and give you a bit more freedom to bathe him the best you can.

A Contained Area to Get Dry: Most dogs bolt all over the house (or directly outside) after a bath. You can try to limit the smell of wet dog from being spread to every surface of your house by containing your pup to a small area until he is dry.