How to Bathe a Dog After She's Given Birth

Reviewed by a licensed veterinary professional: Dr. Linda Simon, MVB MRCVS

Grooming your pregnant pup is essential for her hygiene and comfort. But what's the best time to bathe a dog who's just given birth? And how should you go about it to keep Mama comfy and safe?

Here are some quick tips on how to bathe a dog who's just given birth:

• Preparation is key. Trimming the fur on your dog's belly and back before she gives birth is a good way to prevent blood and amniotic fluid from building up in the fur.
• Don't bathe her right away. It's best to wait 2 to 5 days after your dog gives birth before bathing her — this gives Mama a chance to recover from the labor and delivery, not to mention bond with her new babies.
• Spot-clean and replace soiled bedding as needed. This will help keep your fur-family comfortable and the birthing area smelling fresh.
  

Mama is tired after giving birth, and the safety of her puppies is her top priority. If you remove her to bathe her, she could become anxious. Plus, newborn puppies chill very easily — they need their mom's care, milk, and body heat in the first few days. 

Also, immediately after giving birth, your dog and her puppies will bond with each others' scent. A bath can disrupt this vital process. Your dog is likely more concerned about her pups' safety than her own cleanliness. She'll also likely groom herself after giving birth. While this may not get her entirely clean, it will certainly help!

Within a few days of giving birth, most moms will appreciate a bath. Wait at least 2 to 5 days to bathe your dog after she gives birth, and limit her time away from the pups to as short a period as possible. It may help to bring the puppies into the bathroom with you so Mama can keep an eye on them.

Want to leave bathing your dog to an experienced groomer? Book a Grooming service with a Pet Caregiver near you today.

• Avoid using medicated shampoos or harsh detergents, which can make pups sick if residue on mom's fur is ingested during nursing.
  
• Pups can chill easily — be sure to keep them warm while Mom is away.
• Bathe your mama dog as quickly as you can without causing her any additional stress.
• Dry Mom thoroughly before returning her to her pups.
  
• Choose your bath time carefully. Wait until pups have just finished nursing so the mammary glands are empty and don't leak during bathing. Nursing also makes puppies more likely to sleep.
  
• Figure out what makes Mom least anxious about leaving her pups. Close the bathroom door if "out of sight, out of mind" works best. Or, place the pups nearby where your dog can see them if that makes her more comfortable.
  
• Use a non-slip bath mat to avoid slips and falls.
  
• Avoid putting pressure on your dog's abdomen and mammaries.
  

Mama dogs have a lot to worry about, but they're pretty efficient at caring for themselves after giving birth. Still, your dog may need a helping paw with her bathing and house cleaning duties.

Preparing for your dog's delivery is essential. Trim the fur on her belly and back before she goes into labor. Add clean, dry bedding to her whelping box or space, and

Shortly after she gives birth, carefully clean her with a damp cloth, paying special attention to her body language. Remember, avoid giving Mom a full bath until 2 to 5 days after the delivery.

When giving your dog her first bath after puppies, pick a time when the puppies have full bellies and Mom's mammary glands are empty. Handle your new mom carefully and use a gentle shampoo. Rinse and dry her thoroughly to keep her puppies safe, warm, and cozy.

If you need help giving your mama dog her first bath after giving birth, book a Grooming service with a Pet Caregiver near you today.