How to Wash a Big Dog at Home

If your dog is a large breed, you might remember the days when you put your fluffy little pup in the bathtub and bathed him. Life was easy then when you could pick him up, lift him into the tub, wash, and rinse him with swift movements, dry him, and lift him back out of the bath. But then he grew up and now getting him into the tub is impossible. 

You can still keep your big dog clean while at home. You may have to get creative and give up the idea of using the bathtub, though. Summer months might allow for outdoor baths using the hose and some refreshing cool water. Inside you can consider putting your large dog in the shower with you, so he doesn't have to maneuver his massive body over the side of the bathtub, and you don't have to handle him as much as you did when you used the tub.

If your large dog remembers his time in a bathtub when he was small, he might not quite understand why you're bathing him the way you are now. Just remember positive rewards for positive behaviors keep him in check, and encourage him to continue being a good boy while you're getting him clean.

• Always prepare the bathing or showering area for your large dog before you bring the dog in.
• Brushing your big bud before bathing will help loosen tangles and rid the coat of knots.
• Your large dog will shake a few times during his bath. Prepare yourself for getting wet while bathing him.
• An extra towel on hand to hold up between you and your furry friend will help keep you dry as he shakes excess water out of his fur.
• This dog bath shake he will do will remove a lot of water once he’s been rinsed well. This will help to dry him better than a towel alone.
• A handheld shower or hose is great for rinsing your large dog. Cups and bowls are great for rinsing, but won’t hold enough water to rinse a large dog quickly.
• Be sure to rinse your dog well and do not allow shampoo to dry on the skin as it may cause dryness and itching.
• Close the doors to your bathroom to keep your wet dog from running away before he’s dry.
• If you wash your large guy outside, consider a leash attached to a stable surface to keep him in place while bathing.