Games 4 Dogs

Teaching your dog to stay calm during bath time can be a rewarding experience that strengthens your relationship with your pet. After being a professional dog trainer who has trained more than 500 puppies, I have created this guide with some expert tips to help you and your dog enjoy a stress-free bath time.

1. Prepare the Environment

Create a Calm Atmosphere:

Quiet Space: Choose a quiet, low-traffic area for bath time to minimize distractions and anxiety.

Warm Water: Ensure the water is at a comfortable temperature (not too hot or too cold).

Non-slip Mat: Use a non-slip mat in the tub to prevent slipping and make your dog feel secure.

Gather Supplies Before Bath time Begins:

Dog-specific Shampoo: Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo to avoid skin irritation.

Towels: Have several towels ready for drying.

Treats and Toys:  Keep a supply of treats and a favorite toy to reward and distract your dog.

2. Introduce Bath Time Gradually

Socialize Your Dog in the Bathroom:

Short Visits: Start with short visits to the bathroom or bath area without the intention of giving a bath. You can even feed your dog their meals in the bathroom! Allow your dog to explore and sniff around.

Create Waterless Positive Associations First: Give treats and praise during these visits to create positive associations with the bath area. You can even bring their favourite dog into in and play with them in the bathroom!

·     Slow Introduction to Water:

Gradually introduce your dog to water. Start by letting them stand in an empty tub and reward them. Slowly add a small amount of water and let them get used to it.

·     Desensitization: Use a cup or a gentle spray to wet their paws and legs, gradually working up to their body over several sessions.

3. Make Bath Time Enjoyable - Use Positive Reinforcement:

Treats and Praise: Reward your dog with treats and praise for staying calm and cooperative. This reinforces the idea that bath time is a positive experience.

Interactive Toys: Give your dog a favourite toy or a treat-dispensing toy to keep them occupied and distracted during the bath. A quick Google or YouTube search will reveal a variety of DIY tricks, tools and toys like lick mats made for this purpose

Stay Calm and Patient:

Gentle Handling Handle your dog gently and speak in a soothing tone to keep them relaxed.

Short Sessions: Keep initial bath sessions short to prevent overwhelming your dog.

4. Establish a Routine

Consistent Bath Schedule:

Regular Baths: Establish a regular bath schedule so your dog knows what to expect. Consistency helps reduce anxiety.

Pre-Bath Exercise:

Tire Them Out: A tired dog is often a calmer dog. Give your dog a good walk or play session before bath time to expend excess energy.

5. Post-Bath Rewards

Reward and Play: eDuring or after the bath, reward your dog with treats and lots of affection. Engage in a fun activity or play session to further reinforce the positive experience.

5 Games to Make Baths Fun

1. Splash and Fetch

How To Play:  Start in a shallow pool or at the edge of a calm lake. Ensure the water is only a few inches deep. Throw a water-safe toy a short distance into the shallow water. Encourage your dog to fetch the toy, and reward them with treats and praise when they bring it back.

2. Water Treasure Hunt

**How to Play: Fill a shallow paddling pool with water and place some floating toys or treats into the water. Toss the toys and treats into the water and encourage your pup to enter the shallow pool to get them.

3. Chase the Hose

How To Play:  Use a garden hose with a gentle spray nozzle. Start by spraying the ground and let your dog investigate. DO NOT SPRAY YOUR DOG IN THE FACE! Instead, move the spray around and encourage your dog to chase the water stream. Reward your dog with treats and praise for engaging with the water.

4. Bobbing for Treats

How To Play: Use a large water bowl or shallow tub filled with water. Throw some kibble or treats that sink. Encourage your dog to use their nose or paws to retrieve the treats.

5. Water Obstacle Course

How To Play: Create a simple obstacle course that involves a shallow pool, or sprinkler or a shallow section of a lake. Use floating toys, small inflatable obstacles, or even pool noodles.

Guide, encourage and/or lead your dog through the obstacle course, encouraging them to navigate around, and through the obstacles. Praise and Reward: Offer treats and praise as your dog successfully completes each part of the course.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Fear of Water:

Add More Desensitization: Continue gradual exposure to water, always associating it with positive experiences. The more often you desensitize them to water, the better! 

Add More Interactive Distractions: Use a treat-dispensing toy or smear some dog-safe peanut butter on the side of the tub to keep them occupied.

Restlessness in the Tub:

Bathtub Exposure: Your pup needs more exposure to tub (without water). Feed them in the tub or give them a special treat while they are in the tub. 

Remember, teaching your dog to stay calm during bath time is a journey that requires patience, consistency, and lots of love. Every positive experience will strengthen the bond between you and your best furry friend. So, enjoy the process, celebrate the small victories, and soon enough, bath time will be a stress-free and even enjoyable routine for both of you. Happy bathing!