The Do’s and Don’ts of Bathing Your Dog
Keep your pup clean, calm, and comfortable in the tub!
Bathing your dog can either be a spa day success or a wet, wiggly disaster — but with a few simple tips, you can make it stress-free for both of you. Whether you’re washing at home or using our self-serve dog wash station at Bark & Luv, here’s your go-to guide on what to do (and what not to do) when it’s bath time.
✅ DO: Brush Your Dog Before the Bath
Mats and tangles get worse when wet, so take a few minutes to brush out your pup’s coat before turning on the water. It’ll make shampooing easier and leave their fur smoother after drying.
❌ DON’T: Use Human Shampoo
Human products — even baby shampoo — can disrupt your dog’s skin pH and cause irritation. Always use a dog-specific shampoo that’s gentle and formulated for their coat type.
✅ DO: Use Lukewarm Water
Just like Goldilocks, the water should be just right. Too hot or too cold can stress your pup out and even dry out their skin. Lukewarm is the sweet spot.
❌ DON’T: Get Water in Their Ears
Water in the ears can lead to infections. Try gently placing cotton balls in their ears during the bath and avoid spraying near their head. Instead, use a damp washcloth to clean their face.
✅ DO: Rinse Thoroughly
Leftover soap residue is one of the biggest causes of itchy skin after a bath. Rinse well — especially around the belly, armpits, and behind the ears — until the water runs totally clear.
❌ DON’T: Rush the Drying Process
Letting your dog run around sopping wet can lead to skin issues or mats in longer coats. Towel dry thoroughly, and if they tolerate it, use a low-heat blow dryer or our professional dryers at Bark & Luv.
✅ DO: Make It a Positive Experience
Treats, praise, and gentle handling go a long way. Help your dog associate baths with something good — not something to dread. Our self-serve stations come stocked with everything you need (plus treats on hand!).
❌ DON’T: Over-Bathe
Unless your vet says otherwise, dogs generally only need a bath every 4–6 weeks. Too much bathing can strip their coat of natural oils and cause dry, flaky skin.
Bonus Tip:
Try a Self-Serve Dog Wash!
If your home bathroom turns into a splash zone, check out our self-serve dog wash stations at Bark & Luv. We provide everything — shampoo, towels, brushes, dryers, and even a treat bar — so all you have to do is bring the dog (and maybe a change of clothes).
Final Woof:
A clean dog is a happy dog — and a happy dog makes for a happier home. Follow these simple do’s and don’ts and make bath time easier, healthier, and maybe even fun.