Help! My Dog Hates Baths
Q: How do I get my dog to stop biting when I try to give her a bath? It’s like she becomes a ferocious attack dog. – Jason S.
Practice having her in the tub, if that is her bathing spot, with no water running at first. Running water can be scary for dogs, especially with a high-pressure faucet.
Put down an inexpensive rubber bath mat so she doesn’t slip (slipping can add to her nervousness).
Have her on leash and have a helper gently hold her as you let her lick from a sterilized bone (such as those made by Gimborn) stuffed with a creamy food like cream cheese or peanut butter. Gently brush her as she works on the bone.
Keep practicing this in short sessions until she is calm.
Once your dog is calm in the tub, introduce water by taking a container of warm water gently pouring it on one of your dog’s feet.
Gradually increase the length of time in the tub and the amount of water used until you can give her a full bath.