Does your dog panic when he hears the dreaded B-word? If so, Fido isn’t alone. The great majority of dogs dislike bathing. Have you ever wondered about this? A local Jensen Beach, FL veterinarian provides some insight on this below.
Is It Normal for Dogs to Hate Baths?
We can’t exactly survey our canine patients on this one, but if we could, well, let’s just say it’s probably safe to say that the vast majority would be less than thrilled with baths. So, yes, it is quite normal.
Is It Cruel To Bathe Dogs?
Not at all. In reality, it is cruel not to. Despite Fido’s antics, it’s vital to remember that dogs require beauty care and maintenance. Otherwise, they’ll get dust, filth, and dander throughout their fur. That is not only unpleasant, but it also interferes with your dog’s fur’s insulating properties, making it more difficult for him to stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Dirty dogs are also more susceptible to parasites and/or skin problems. Long-haired pooches are also more likely to get mats, which can become exceedingly uncomfortable. If they get bad enough, they may even make it difficult for your pet to walk or stand correctly. (Another bonus: Fido will smell much better after.)
How Often Should I Bathe My Dog?
This will vary greatly. A dog with short, sleek fur won’t need as many baths as one with fluffy fur that is prone to mats and tangles.
If your pet has short, smooth fur, you may only need to bathe him once every one to three months. Obviously, there is some variance here. If Fido loves rolling around in mud puddles, he will probably need more baths than that, as will dogs with medium or long fur and, from the other end of the spectrum, hairless pups.
Get some specialized guidance from your veterinarian or breeder. Just don’t take Fido’s word on it … he’d probably prefer to skip most of those baths!
Do Dogs Really Feel Better After A Bath?
We all like the salon-fresh feeling. So does Fido! We all feel better when we are clean and well-groomed. With dogs, the issue is usually the process of being bathed, not the result.
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:
- Fear Of Confinement: Fido’s distaste of baths may also be due to the fact that he has few options about the issue. 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.
- The Unknown: Dogs are frequently suspicious of unfamiliar objects or experiences. 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 bathing Fido is a hassle, you also may not be a fan of the practice yourself. After all, you may have to cajole your reluctant pet into the tub. Then, you may end up getting drenched … before having to clean up the mess. Fido may be responding to subtle cues that you aren’t exactly having fun, which will do nothing to enhance his perspective.
- Prior Experiences: Unfortunately, some of our canine patients have had very difficult times in the past. Some were rescued from horrible owners and/or surroundings. If your pet has been yelled at, rough-handled, or, worse, struck, during baths he may be experiencing doggy PTSD as a result of the incident.
However, that poor association did not have to be caused by something completely horrible. Smaller occurrences can also do it. Some examples of that include things like water in the nose, soap in the eyes, slips (even without falls), heavily perfumed shampoos, hot water scalds (even very minor), strong odors, and removal of Fido’s natural fragrances.
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 look at you with that cute head tilt that pups do. Instead, you’ll have to focus on improving his outlook on the situation. First and foremost? Be cheerful!
Here are some tips:
- Avoid getting soap in your dog’s eyes!
- Rinse with a teapot or pitcher.
- Avoid soaps and shampoos with high perfume content. They can be too strong for Fido’s delicate nose!
- Maintain a regular bathing schedule.
- 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.
- Consider seeing a groomer. Their stations may be safer for your dog, especially if he is a senior or a large breed.
Ask your Jen sen Beach, FL veterinarian for further information about bathing your pet.
Book An Appointment At Our Jensen Beach, FL Pet Clinic
Do you have any questions about your pet’s rooming requirements? Contact your Jensen Beach, FL pet hospital today!