How to Spa Bathe a Dog

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How to Spa Bathe a Dog

Medium

15 - 30 Minutes

1 Month

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Introduction

You know, you treat yourself to a day at the spa once a month, so why wouldn't you do the same for Lady? She deserves a good spa bath once a month just as much as you do. But have you looked at the cost of taking her in for a day at the spa? Depending on where you live, the prices can range from crazy all the way up to ludicrous! The alternative is for you to learn how to give Lady a spa bath at home. You can make a day of it, go for a walk, have a nice bath, trim those nails, and end the day with a movie and treats. A luxurious bath like this can have her feeling fantastic and can also get her nice and clean, ready to relax with you for the rest of the day.

Dog's Perspective

Lady may not realize that she deserves a spa bath unless, of course, you have been taking her to the spa. In which case, when you first stop, you might notice her acting a bit upset with you. But as long as you play the game just right and create a spa environment, she will forgive you! Give her some good time and attention to really give her the luxury that she deserves.

The Total Spa Method

Effective

0 Votes

Slicker Brush

Shampoo

Pin Brush

Dryer

Step

Start with a warm tub

Start out by placing a safety mat in the tub and filling it to chest high with baby bath warm water. You can add a little bit of shampoo to the water and then add one Lady to the mix. Take your time in getting her used to the water if she doesn't take frequent baths.

Step

The first shampoo

Most good spas will wash each dog twice. So using a spa quality shampoo, soak her coat with water from a detachable shower head or a pitcher, and then scrub every inch of her body. This is a great time to massage her muscles, helping them to relax. Rinse the shampoo out thoroughly. Use your fingertips rather than your nails when scrubbing to prevent any rough treatment.

Step

The second shampoo

Using the same shampoo and techniques, wash her entire body once again. This time use a washcloth and a little bit of shampoo to wash her face and head. Rinse thoroughly, making sure you get every bit of the shampoo out of her coat. Any residue left behind can cause skin irritation.

Step

Add a leave-in conditioner

Using a leave in conditioner, massage it thoroughly into her coat. Try not to use too much, as this can cause buildup, while too little won't make much of a difference. The key is choosing the right amount.

Step

Blow dry and add the finishing touch

Using a pet-safe blow dryer, dry her coat completely. Brush it out and spritz her with a little of her favorite puppy scent. Grooming salons may have a variety of scents for you to choose from, so pick one that makes her feel and smell great.

The Full Meal Deal Method

Effective

0 Votes

Slicker Brush

Shampoo

Pin Brush

Deshedder

Dematter

Comb

Dryer

Step

Work up a sweat

Start out with a nice walk that will help relax her, giving her time to go potty, and tire her out at bit. You may also choose to do a heavier activity such as running or swimming, if you'd like. Any type of exercise will ensure that she is ready to relax later on.

Step

Set up the spa

Start with adding a rubber safety mat to the tub. Run Lady a nice, warm bath. Keep the water at approximately the same temperature you would use to bathe a baby. Slide Lady into the tub and give her a few minutes to soak and relax. Follow this with a nice deep massage. Work those muscles and tendons, as doing so is very good for her circulation and overall health. Plus, it will help her become even more relaxed.

Step

Scrub time

Using a vet-approved shampoo that is higher quality that you would find in a fancy grooming salon, scrub every inch of Lady from head to toe. Start at her neck and work from front to back. Scrub the shampoo in gently, continuing to work those muscles.

Step

Rinse and condition

Using the shower head or a pitcher of clean, warm water, rinse all traces of the shampoo out of her coat. Using your hands, squeegee the excess water out of her coat. Apply a leave in-conditioner and take her out of the tub.

Step

Puppy blow out

Using a pet-safe, vet-approved hair dryer, blow dry her hair thoroughly. Brush it out completely to remove any tangles and then add the finishing touch. Most spas use an inexpensive perfume spritz or scented powder to finish up and have your dog smelling her best.

Caution & Considerations

Be sure all products you use are vet-approved as being safe for use on dogs. Products made for use on humans or other animals such as cats can contain ingredients that have been found to be toxic to dogs.
Always rinse the shampoo out of her hair completely as residue can cause skin damage. You may want to have more than one rinse to ensure that you've removed all of it.
Use a pet-safe hair dryer, as dryers that are made for humans can get far too hot and cause injuries such as burns to your dog's skin.
Use your spa time to check Lady's body for things like fleas, ticks, mites, injury, or infection. It can be a good opportunity to identify any problems to bring up to your veterinarian later on.
Spa time is also a good time to trim her nails. If your dog is hesitant with clippers, you can try using a file or a dremel, if you have experience with one.
Make sure to wash her face and other sensitive areas like the rear with a washcloth rather than pouring water onto these areas, as this can be uncomfortable for her.

Conclusion

The idea behind a good spa bath is that it is a great way to let your dog know how much you love her! Take your time and make every aspect of the bath fun. When you are all done, kick back together and settle with a good movie and some treats for both of you. If you make the experience one to remember, Lady will be much more likely to enjoy bath time in the future.

How to Spa Bathe a Dog

Introduction

Dog's Perspective

The Total Spa Method

The Full Meal Deal Method

Caution & Considerations

Conclusion

Success Stories and Grooming Questions

More Dog Grooming Guides