Bathing

[moonshine]

I have two twelve week old girls and I'm looking for tips on bathing them so that they learn to behave in the bath! Any suggestions?

 

[MKAD]

No tips; just good luck!

 

[Althea]

Um, separately? We tie our guys to the tub (as I have a pug who HATES water) and wash them that way. Just try not to scare them with the water. My boxer has no issue, but some dogs really don't like bathing.

 

[Kilby'sMum]

Definitely separately!! It will help if you can teach the 'stand' command... you can practice before you get them in the bath. It's also okay to have treats on hand the first few times you bathe them so the experience is all positive.

 

[sriley]

If you don't already have one, I would highly recommend purchasing a rubber, non-slip bath mat for your bathtub or shower. My first Boxer hated baths and we found that he was more manageable with a rubber mat under him. I think the slippery surface really made him feel uneasy on his feet.

I'm fortunate that the two Boxers I now have really like the water. They don't mind baths, but we do bath them separately. And they love the hose! After our walk last night, I hosed the dogs down (partly because they were so warm and partly because they decided it was a good idea to go wading through the swamp). The hose is a big game for them. Chief actually rolled over on his side and then onto his back as I hosed down his belly. He was in heaven! If your girls are anything like my boys, perhaps an outdoor shower with the hose is your best bet. Good luck!