Does your canine partner flee when he hears the terrible B-word? If so, he’s not alone. The vast majority of dogs do not enjoy baths, to put it mildly. This is probably not a big surprise. But it can be puzzling, especially since many dogs enjoy swimming! A local Cedar City, UT vet provides some insight below.

Is It Normal For Dogs To Dislike Baths?

We can’t exactly poll our canine patients on this one, but if we could, it’s probably reasonable to say that the vast majority of them would be less than enthusiastic about bath time. However, some dogs are only minimally irritated and will tolerate being cleaned without much fuss. Others behave as if they are being murdered.

Why Do Dogs Dislike Baths?

One thing you should know about dogs is that they do not think in the same manner that we do. They don’t understand right and wrong, and they definitely do not understand punishment. They simply create links in their memories between specific stimuli or locations and the feelings or experiences connected with them.

It doesn’t take much to create negative connections with bathtime. 

Here are a few options:

Fear of Being Trapped: Fido’s hatred of baths may also be due to the fact that he has little choice in the matter. Feeling coerced into anything can definitely get Man’s Best Friend on edge.

Uncertainty: Dogs are frequently afraid of unfamiliar situations. Puppies who have never been bathed before will be very nervous about the process because it is new and unfamiliar. (This is why we recommend that you start bathing Fido when he is young.)

Bad Vibes: Dogs are incredibly smart and can read our moods and signals. If your pet dislikes baths, or even if your previous dog disliked baths, you are likely to dislike the practice as well. After all, you might have to deal with enticing your reluctant pet into the bathtub, getting saturated, and then cleaning up the mess. Fido may be reacting to subtle cues that you aren’t enjoying the procedure, which will do nothing to change his opinion.

Prior Experiences: Unfortunately, some of our canine patients have been through difficult circumstances in the past. Some, particularly those that were rescued from abusive owners and/or conditions, may simply be nervous about anything and everything. If your pet has been yelled at, rough-handled, or worse, struck, he may be experiencing doggy PTSD as a result of the experience.

That unfavorable association does not always have to be something horrific, though. Even small everyday happenings can cause this bad connotation. Small things like water in the nose, soap in the eyes, slips, hot water scalding, strong odors, and even erasure of Fido’s natural fragrance can leave a bad taste in your pet’s mouth.

What Should I Do if My Dog Hates Baths?

You won’t be able to resolve this issue by talking with your pet. Fido will most likely just gaze at you and tilt his head in that adorable way. Instead, you want to give him a more positive outlook on the situation.

• Be Cheerful! First and first, be calm and encouraging. Simply chatting to Fido in a soothing tone can help! Timing may also be a factor here. Try not to bathe your dog if you are upset, unhappy, or furious.
• Make It Fun. What is one thing that can really help? Make Fido feel good about the restroom! Call him into the bathroom, then place him in the bathtub. Give him a treat once he gets in. This should be a high-value treat, such as a piece of steak. Then just let him go. This can go a long way towards creating better vibes.
• Be Gentle. Small changes, such as keeping the water at a pleasant temperature, can also help. We recommend preparing everything before bringing your dog into the bathtub.
• Avoid getting soap in your dog’s eyes! Rinse with a teapot or pitcher. 
• Avoid using excessively perfumed soaps and shampoos. They can be rather overwhelming for Fido’s cute and delicate nose.
• Maintain a consistent bathing schedule: If your pet’s coat is well-maintained, baths can be quick and easy.
• Give your pooch a reward! After bathtime, reward Fido with a new toy or special treat, such as a chew. 
• Take it outdoors. In the summer, your dog may choose to take a bath in a kiddie pool or with a hose. Just be careful to fully rinse him!

For further information about bathing your canine companion, consult your veterinarian.

Schedule an Appointment at Our Cedar City, UT Pet Clinic

Do you have any concerns about your pet’s grooming requirements? Contact your Cedar City, UT pet hospital now!