Bath Buddies: How to make bath time more fun!

For many dogs, the thought of a bath can be scary or stressful, but with the right approach and preparation, you can make bath time a positive and fun experience for both you and your dog. Here are some tips to help make bath time an enjoyable routine:

1. Introduce baths gradually : If your dog is afraid of water or isn't used to being bathed, it's important to introduce baths gradually and positively. Start by letting your dog explore the bathroom and tub without water in them, and reward them with treats and praise for being curious and calm.

2. Use the right temperature : Make sure the water is comfortably warm, not too hot and not too cold. Test the temperature with your hand before placing your dog in the bath and adjust if necessary.

3. Use dog-friendly products : Choose a mild and gentle dog shampoo that is specially formulated for your dog's skin and coat. Avoid using human shampoos as they can be too harsh and dry out your dog's skin. Personally, I use B&B Neutral Shampoo and Conditioner for Milo, who is a Bichon Havanese. I find that works really well,

4. Create a calming atmosphere : Play soft music or make soothing sounds to create a relaxing atmosphere during the bath. You can also use soothing scented candles or essential oils to promote relaxation and calm. It may seem silly, but for many dogs it can be a stress reliever!
   If you have a dog that absolutely does not like to bathe, you can also use a lick mat with a suction cup effect. Then you place the lick mat on the wall with something delicious smeared on it, and then wash your dog while he is busy licking the delicious snack off the lick mat.

5. Reward with treats and praise : During bath time, praise your dog and reward them with tasty treats to encourage positive behavior. This helps create a positive association with the bath and strengthens the trust between you and your dog.

6. Dry them well : After the bath, make sure to dry your dog thoroughly with a towel or a hair dryer on low heat. Avoid leaving them wet as this can lead to skin irritation and discomfort. Milo personally hates the blow dryer, so I invested in a hot air brush - the better buy by a long shot! Plus, he gets his boat coat on once he's dried. It doesn't get any easier!
   
   The brush with hot air: https://dogsandfriends.dk/products/borste-m-varm-luft?_pos=1&_psq=b%C3%B8rste+m&_ss=e&_v=1.0
   
   Bathrobe: https://dogsandfriends.dk/products/badekabe-til-hund?_pos=1&_sid=838d2ee81&_ss=r

With these tips and tricks, you can make bath time a fun and positive experience for your dog. Remember to be patient and loving, and reward your dog for their good behavior. With the right approach, bath time can become a pleasant routine that both you and your dog look forward to.