Does your canine pal try to run off and hide when he hears the dreaded B-word? If so, he isn’t alone. Many pooches are not exactly fans of bathing. We can’t exactly survey our canine patients on this one, but we suspect that if we could, most would report being less than thrilled with being given baths. What’s that all about? A local Hobe Sound, FL veterinarian provides some insight on this below.
Why Do Dogs Hate Baths?
Because each dog is unique, there can never be a single universal solution to this question. However, there are a few typical possibilities:
Negative Associations
One thing to understand about dogs is that they do not think in the same manner that humans do. They obviously do not consider things in terms of good and evil, nor do they understand punishment. They typically generate memories that connect certain stimuli or locations to the feelings or experiences linked with them. If your pet has been yelled at, rough-handled, or, worse, struck in a bath, he may be experiencing doggy PTSD as a result of the incident.
That poor association did not have to be horrible. Smaller everyday occurrences can do it, too!
Some of these include the following:
- Hot Water Scald
- Strong Odors
- Water In The Nose
- Soap In The Eyes
- Slips
- Removal Of Fido’s Natural Fragrances
Ask your Hobe Sound, FL vet for more information on Fido’s pet peeves.
Fear Of Being Trapped
Fido’s distaste of baths may also be due to the fact that he has few options in the matter. Being pulled up and/or shoved into the tub may make Fido feel nervous. Feeling coerced into anything can put Man’s Best Friend on edge. He’ll remember that next time around.
Uncertainty
Dogs are frequently suspicious of unfamiliar objects. Puppies who have never been bathed before will be nervous about the experience, simply because it is new and strange. This is why we recommend beginning to bathe tiny Fido when he is still young.
Bad Vibes
Dogs are highly intuitive and can read our moods and signals. If your pet dislikes showers, or even if your previous dog disliked baths, you’re probably not a fan of the practice. After all, you may have to cajole your reluctant pet into the tub, get saturated, and then clean up the mess. Fido may be responding to subtle cues that you aren’t enjoying the process, which will do nothing to enhance his perspective.
What Should I Do If My Dog Hates Baths?
You will not be able to resolve this issue by talking to your pet. Fido will probably just gaze at you with that super cute, confused head tilt that pups do. Instead, you’ll have to focus on improving your pet’s outlook on the situation.
First and foremost, remain cool and encouraging. Simply speaking with Fido in a soothing tone can help! Timing may also be important here. Try not to bathe your dog when you’re anxious, unhappy, or angry.
Our next suggestion? Make it fun! What is one item that can make Fido think positively about the bathroom? Food, of course! Call him into the bathroom, then coax him into the tub. When he goes in, give him a reward. This should be a high-value treat, comparable to a piece of steak. Then, simply let your dog go.
- Avoid soaps and shampoos with high perfume content. They can be too strong for Fido’s delicate (and adorable) nose!
- Maintain a regular schedule. If you take proper care of your pet’s coat, baths may not take long at all. The longer you wait, the longer the bath.
- Don’t overdo it! That may strip your pet’s fur.
- Keep the water at a reasonable temperature.
- Prepare everything before you bring your dog into the bathtub.
- Be careful not to get soap in your dog’s eyes!
- Rinse with a teapot or pitcher.
- Reward your puppy! After bathtime, reward Fido with a new toy or treat, such a chew.
- Take it outside. In the summer, your dog may enjoy a bath in a kiddie pool or with a hose. Just make sure you clean him well!
Ask your Hobe Sound, FL veterinarian for further information about bathing your pet.
Is It Cruel To Bathe Dogs?
Not at all. Despite Fido’s antics, he needs some beauty care. Otherwise, he’ll get dust, filth, and dander all over his fur. That is not only uncomfortable, but also interferes with your dog’s fur’s insulating properties, making it hard for him to stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Our canine pals are also more susceptible to parasites and/or skin problems if they are dirty. Long-haired dogs are also more likely to get mats. These can become exceedingly uncomfortable, and may make it difficult for your pet to walk or even stand correctly.
How Frequently Should I Bathe My Canine Buddy?
It depends! A dog with short, sleek fur will need fewer baths than one with fluffy fur that is prone to mats and tangles.
If your pet has short, smooth fur, bathe him once every one to three months. Obviously, there is some variance here. If your dog is prone to rolling around in mud puddles, he will require more regular baths than one who … doesn’t. Dogs with medium or long fur must be bathed more frequently. Hairless puppies also require frequent bathing. On the other end of the spectrum, pooches with thick, double coats can typically go longer between baths than some pups.
Of course, you’ll want to get specialized guidance from your veterinarian or breeder.
Do Dogs Really Feel Better After A Bath?
We all like the salon-fresh feel, and dogs are no exception! In fact, most of our canine buddies clearly like feeling salon-fresh and clean. They just aren’t fond of the process that gets them there.
Book An Appointment At Our Hobe Sound, FL Pet Clinic
Do you have any questions about your pet’s rooming requirements? Contact your Hobe Sound, FL pet hospital today!
