Washing your dog outside can be a fun summer activity for both you and your pup. It allows your dog to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air while getting clean. However, there are some important steps to follow when bathing your dog outdoors to make sure the process goes smoothly. Proper preparation and using the right supplies will ensure your dog gets a thorough cleansing while having an enjoyable time.
In this article, we will go over everything you need to know about washing your dog outside including:
Page Contents
What Supplies You’ll Need
Before getting started, you’ll want to gather all the necessary bathing supplies. Trying to wash a dog without the proper tools close at hand will make the process much more difficult.
Some of the essential items for washing a dog outdoors are:
– Dog shampoo – Choose a high-quality dog shampoo that is gentle enough for regular use. Do not use human shampoo which can dry out a dog’s skin.
– Towels – Have several absorbent towels on hand to wet down your dog and dry him off afterwards. The towels should be old ones you don’t mind getting dirty.
– Brush – Use a brush suited for your dog’s coat type to help loosen dirt and distribute the shampoo.
– Water hose – This will provide a consistent flow of water to rinse all the shampoo off your dog’s coat. Make sure it can reach your entire washing area.
– Treats – Bring along some small treats to reward your dog and keep him motivated during the bath.
You may also want to have on hand:
– Dog hair catcher – This can help trap all the loose hair that will come off when washing.
– Old washcloth – To help scrub your dog’s face.
– Dog ear cleaner – To carefully clean inside the ears after bathing.
Picking the Right Outdoor Location
When deciding where to bathe your dog outside, you’ll need to find a spot that meets certain criteria. The location should:
– Be easily accessible with a hose.
– Have a non-slip surface for your dog to stand on. Grass or concrete may get too slick when wet. Consider a textured patio or deck area.
– Provide shade. Direct sunlight will dry out your dog’s skin and make him hot. Work in a shaded region for comfort.
– Be private and quiet. Choose an area away from busy streets or neighbor activity. Your dog may become startled if unfamiliar people or noises approach.
– Have good drainage. You’ll need an area where the rinse water can flow away quickly and not pool up. Soggy ground can lead to muddy paws.
If you have a fenced-in yard, this is often an ideal place. Just be sure to survey the area for sharp sticks or rocks that could hurt your dog’s paws. Also remove any lawn chemicals or fertilizer before bathing.
If you live in an apartment or don’t have a suitable outdoor space, you may want to visit a self-serve dog wash. These facilities allow you to bathe your dog in a controlled environment for a small fee.
How to Prep Your Dog
Getting your dog ready before the bath will make the process go much more smoothly. Here are some tips for pre-bath prep:
– Brush your dog thoroughly. This will remove dead hair and knots. Pay close attention to mats which can trap dirt and moisture against the skin. Removing mats before bathing prevents further matting when wet.
– Trim nails. Overgrown nails can scratch you or your dog during the bath. Use nail clippers to carefully trim them before getting started.
– Express anal glands. Full anal glands can release smelly fluid when the dog is bathed. Gently express your dog’s anal glands before washing to avoid this.
– Have treats ready. Use biscuits or small pieces of chicken to reward your dog and keep him engaged. However, don’t feed a full meal right before bathing as this can cause upset stomach.
– Set up your supplies. Place all your towels, brushes, shampoo, etc. within easy reach of the washing location.
– Test the water temperature. Mix some water in a bucket to make sure it’s lukewarm before wetting down your dog. Extreme temperatures can make bath time unpleasant.
Following these pre-wash tips will get your dog ready for a calm, stress-free bathing experience.
Washing Your Dog Step-By-Step
Once you have the supplies gathered and your dog is prepped, you’re ready to start washing. Follow these steps for hassle-free bath time:
Step 1 – Wet Down Your Dog
Use a hose with a nozzle or fill buckets of water to gradually get your dog’s coat wet. Avoid spraying directly in the face. Speak calmly and give treats to put your dog at ease. Thoroughly soak down the coat until the hair is completely saturated.
Step 2 – Apply Shampoo
Squirt a generous amount of dog shampoo down the back and sides. Use your hands or a brush to distribute it through the coat, creating a thick lather. Focus on dirty areas but cover the entire body. Avoid getting shampoo near the eyes. Reward your dog with treats for behaving during this process.
Step 3 – Let Shampoo Soak
Allow the shampoo to soak for 5-10 minutes so it has time to break down dirt, oils, and debris trapped in the coat. You can use a washcloth to gently clean the face during this time. Check for fleas and ticks which may rise to the surface.
Step 4 – Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse your dog off starting from the head back towards the rear. Use your hand or a washcloth to protect the eyes. Rinse until all traces of shampoo are gone. This may take several minutes. Be sure to rinse between the toes and other hidden areas where shampoo can collect.
Step 5 – Dry Your Dog
Use your prepared towels to soak up moisture from the coat. Gently rub in the direction of hair growth while speaking reassuringly. Avoid vigorous rubbing which can tangle the coat. Dry off each foot to remove wetness between the toes.
Step 6 – Finish Grooming
Use your brush to distribute natural oils through your dog’s coat and remove any remaining tangles. Trim fur around the feet for a neater appearance. Clean inside the ears with an ear wash and cotton ball if needed.
Step 7 – Reward and Relax
When the bath is finished, reward your dog with cheerful praise and a treat. Set out some fresh water so your dog can rehydrate. Keep your dog in a shaded area while the coat finishes air drying. The bathing experience will be more enjoyable next time if your dog associates it with rewards and relaxation afterwards.
Tips for a Stress-Free Bath Time
While most dogs need training to happily accept bathing, there are things you can do to make the process less stressful:
– Remain calm and upbeat. Your attitude can impact your dog’s behavior.
– Go slowly and give praise. Don’t rush through the steps.
– Use lukewarm water only. Temperature extremes are unpleasant.
– Avoid getting water in the ears and eyes. This can cause irritation or infection.
– Use a leash for restraint if needed. But don’t physically force your dog through the motions.
– Give treats liberally. Food motivated dogs will perform better when rewarded.
– Add toys and games. Bring floats or squirt toys to make it more playful.
– Practice between full baths. Get your dog used to the hose and shampoo in short sessions.
With your dog’s cooperation, washing them outside can be an easy and enjoyable routine. The rewards of a clean dog who loves bath time are well worth the effort!
FAQs About Washing Dogs Outside
Is it okay to use cold water to bathe my dog outside?
No, you should always use lukewarm water when bathing a dog. Cold water can cause shock or hypothermia. Warm to mildly cool water is ideal for dog bathing.
What if my dog hates baths?
With patience and positive reinforcement, you can help an anxious dog learn to accept bathing. Start slow with treats and praise. Gradually increase the length and involved steps as your dog builds confidence. Anti-anxiety pheromone collars can also help relax bath-hating dogs.
Can I use the same shampoo on all coat types?
Shampoo should be matched to your dog’s particular coat length and skin sensitivity. Thick or curly coats benefit from moisturizing formulas. Short-haired dogs need less conditioning. Read labels to find the right shampoo for your dog’s coat.
How often should you bathe a dog outside?
Most dogs only need full baths every 2-3 months. Bathing too frequently can dry out skin and coat oils. Spot clean in between full baths as needed. Dogs who play outside daily or have skin conditions may need to be bathed more often.
What if my dog tries to shake off during the bath?
Interrupt the behavior with a “wait” command. Move more slowly and use treats to maintain focus. Wrapping a towel loosely around your dog can also discourage shaking off. Stay calm and don’t get angry if your dog does shake – it’s a natural instinct.
| Supply | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Dog shampoo | Cleans dirt, oils, and odor from coat |
| Towels | Soak up water and dry dog |
| Brush | Loosens dirt and distributes shampoo |
| Water hose | Provides a consistent water source for rinsing |
| Treats | Rewards dog and keeps engaged |
Conclusion
Bathing your dog outside on a warm day can be an enjoyable experience for both of you. By following the proper steps and using the right supplies, you can get your dog sparkling clean while avoiding any unnecessary stress. Pay attention to your dog’s signals, go slowly, and offer lots of praise and rewards. With some practice bath time can become a fun summertime tradition you both look forward to. A clean, happy dog plus family bonding time makes washing outdoors well worth the effort!