How to Bathe a Pregnant Dog

Pregnant dogs need grooming and baths just like any other dog to keep their coats tangle-free and clean, and to remove debris, oils, and dirt. Also, keeping your dog clean will make her more hygienic when the puppies are born; washing off debris and dead hair will make it easier for the puppies to safely nurse in a clean environment. 

There are a few things that need to be considered when bathing a pregnant dog. How you handle and pick up your expectant mother is important; you don't want to put any undue pressure on the abdominal area. You'll also want to make sure there is no chance of your dog slipping or falling when being bathed, and that you don't cause her undue stress if she doesn't like water and baths. 

One more thing to think about is the kind of shampoo you use. Most anti-parasitic or flea shampoos are not appropriate for pregnant dogs, as some ingredients can be absorbed through the skin and be toxic to puppies. Residue left on the hair and skin can also contaminate nursing puppies. Be sure to check the ingredients of your dog shampoo to see if it's suitable for pregnant dogs. 

Your pregnant dog may or may not be too fussy about being handled and bathed. Some dogs love baths, and are not stressed or phased by baths when pregnant. However, a dog who doesn't like baths in the first place and isn't used to being handled or picked up may be even more reluctant when pregnant. 

Remember that due to hormone fluctuations and increasing size, your momma dog may experience personality changes and can be irritated or even aggressive when handled for a bath. When bathing your pregnant dog, go slow, move at her pace, see what is and isn't comfortable for her, and adjust accordingly.

If you'd rather leave it to the experts, you can treat your dog to a professional grooming session as long as she's not yet due soon and is used to being handled. Book a Grooming service with a Pet Caregiver near you to get your dog cleaned up before delivery.

• Make sure you handle and pick up your pregnant dog carefully to avoid putting pressure on the abdomen.
  
• Do not use shampoo or other bathing products with pesticides or chemicals.
  
• Make sure your dog is not in danger of slipping or falling.
  
• Go slow and avoid stressing your pregnant dog; adapt the bathing process as necessary to avoid upsetting her.
  
• Have everything ready so you don't have to reach away from your dog, which could result in her slipping, and so that bath time doesn't last longer than necessary.
  
• Watch for signs of discomfort when bathing your pregnant dog and stop doing anything that appears to be distressing.
  

Momma dogs want to look nice too!  Your pregnant dog also wants to be clean and comfortable when her puppies come. Although mother dogs will groom themselves, regular bathing during pregnancy to keep their skin and coats debris- and bacteria-free is recommended in most cases. Just be careful, use the right products, and adjust as necessary for your expectant mom's comfort.

Need a pro to help you out? Book a Grooming service with a Pet Caregiver near you, as long as mama dog doesn't mind being handled and is not yet due soon.