Tricks for Grooming a Dog Who Hates to Be Groomed
Pet bathing and grooming is just part of any pet owner’s life. That doesn’t mean your dog will like it, though. Many dogs couldn’t care less about being clean and pretty; they’d rather be muddy and dirty than sit through another bath. Thankfully, there are some ways to make bath time and grooming easier for you and your pup.
1. Bathe Less Often~
While some dogs need a bath every week, others can go up to a month before getting smelly. If your dog is especially active, you may be out of luck. But if your dog mostly stays indoors and doesn’t get smelly too often, consider stretching bath time to every three or four weeks.
2. Use a Bath Mat or Towel~
If your dog’s feet slide around the bottom of the tub, you may need to invest in a bath mat – or at least put down a towel first. Dogs may become anxious if the tub is too slippery, and this is an easy and inexpensive way to help them stay calm during bath time. (As a side note, a slippery tub can be a safety hazard for you, too!)
3. Don’t Fill the Tub too Full~
While humans prefer full tubs of water, dogs feel more comfortable with a lot less. Only fill the tub with six inches or less of water, and make sure it’s not too hot for your dog’s delicate skin. A lukewarm temperature is usually best.
4. Use a Hair Dryer~
Dogs often hate being wet after a bath. If your dog doesn’t get too anxious from the noise, try using a hair dryer to dry him quickly after his bath. Make sure you use the lowest heat setting and avoid pointing the dryer directly at your dog. This helps prevent burns and keeps your dog calmer, too.
5. Distract your Dog with a Toy or Food~
If your dog is especially timid or scared during bath time, try using a distraction. You can use a squeaky bath toy to keep your pup’s mind off the current situation. Better yet, try adding a dab of peanut butter to the shower wall. Your dog will lick the peanut butter and forget all about bath time!
6. Brush your Dog Often~
Tangled hair often catches debris, making bath time more of a pain than ever. If your dog’s baths are especially difficult because the hair is hard to wash, consider brushing more often. Long-haired coats often need daily brushings, while short-haired coats may benefit from weekly ones.
7. Find the Best Brush~
There are different types of brushes available for different breeds of dogs. If your dog balks at one type of brush (or the brush is less than effective on your dog’s coat), try using a different brand or type of brush. With a little luck and perseverance, you’ll find the perfect one for your pup. As a general rule of thumb, though, slicker brushes are used for tangles and bristle brushes are used to keep hair smooth.
8. Be Consistent~
Of all the tips above, the best advice for a dog who hates grooming is to be consistent. It may be difficult to brush and bathe a dog who tries to run every time you come near, but it’s just as important as flea prevention. (Side note: If your dog struggles with pills, try switching to Bravecto Chewable Tablets.) And don’t for get your pooch’s nails! You must only use the best dog nail grinders.
Eventually, grooming tasks will get easier over time. Your dog will become adjusted to your grooming routine, and eventually, he may even enjoy it!
Lannie, writer for Allivet. Allivet provides affordable pet supplies and pet medications, all of which can be purchased online. Listed below are some helpful resources referenced in the article that can provide some guidance for those looking for helpful information on pet supplies & medication: https://www.allivet.com/p-5778-bravecto-chewable-tablet.aspx
