A good home bath is mostly preparation and drying, with the washing in between. Done right, it leaves your dog clean, comfortable and happy to do it again. Done in a rush, it leaves soap in the coat, water in the ears and a dog who hides when the tub fills. This step-by-step guide follows the same order professional groomers use.
Get your dog's personalized routine — take the free 2-min quizStart the Pawfile quiz →What you'll need
- A dog shampoo (human shampoo is formulated for a different skin pH)
- Conditioner for long, curly or dry coats
- A slicker brush and a metal comb
- Two or three absorbent towels
- A non-slip mat for the tub or shower
- A handheld shower head or a jug
- Cotton balls for the ears (optional)
- Treats or a lick mat
Step 1: Brush before the bath
This is the step most people skip and the one that matters most. Water tightens tangles into mats and locks loose undercoat in place. Brush the whole coat and comb through until it's tangle-free. If you find mats, work them out first with our guide on how to get mats out of dog hair.
Step 2: Set up
Put the non-slip mat down, lay towels nearby and test the water on your wrist. It should feel lukewarm, not hot. Have everything within reach so you never leave your dog alone in the tub.
Step 3: Wet the coat completely
Start at the neck and work back and down, keeping water away from the face. Thick and double coats take longer than you'd think to soak through; part the hair to check the water reaches the skin.
Step 4: Shampoo
Dilute the shampoo with a little water for easier spreading. Massage it in from neck to tail, including the legs, belly, armpits and paws. Clean the face last with a damp washcloth instead of shampoo, avoiding the eyes.
Step 5: Rinse, then rinse again
Leftover shampoo is a top cause of itching and flaky skin after baths. Rinse until the water runs clear and the coat feels squeaky, then rinse once more. Apply conditioner if you use one, and rinse thoroughly again.
Step 6: Towel and dry
Squeeze water out with your hands, then press towels into the coat rather than rubbing, which causes tangles. Short coats can often air dry indoors. Long, curly and double coats need a blow dryer on a cool or low-warm setting, held at a distance and kept moving, while you brush. Damp undercoat that stays wet near the skin can lead to hot spots, especially in humid climates.
Step 7: Finish
Brush and comb again once dry, wipe inside the ear flaps with a dry cotton ball, and check nails. End with a treat so the next bath is easier.
How often should you bathe your dog?
Most dogs do well with a bath every 4 to 8 weeks, adjusted for coat type and lifestyle. Over-bathing strips natural oils. Our guide on how often to bathe a dog breaks it down by coat.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Bathing without brushing first
- Using human shampoo or dish soap
- Water that is too hot
- Getting water deep in the ears
- Not rinsing enough
- Letting thick coats air dry slowly
For a bath schedule made for your dog's exact coat, take the free Pawfile quiz.
Get your dog's personalized routine — take the free 2-min quizStart the Pawfile quiz →Home dog bath FAQ
Can I use baby shampoo on my dog?
It's better than adult human shampoo but still not designed for dog skin. A gentle dog shampoo is the safer choice.
Should I bathe my dog in warm or cold water?
Lukewarm. Hot water irritates skin and cold water makes most dogs anxious.
How do I keep water out of my dog's ears?
Keep the head tilted down while rinsing, wash the face with a washcloth, and use cotton balls in the outer ear if your dog tolerates them.
Can I let my dog air dry?
Short coats can air dry indoors. Long, curly and double coats should be blow dried to avoid mats and damp skin.
How do I bathe a dog that hates baths?
Keep sessions short, use a non-slip mat, lukewarm water and a lick mat with a treat spread on it, and stay calm.
This guide offers general grooming information. For skin, ear, dental or coat problems that don't improve, talk to your veterinarian. More Pawfile guides.