Make it a Positive Experience!

•     Get into a grooming routine – dogs respond well to schedules and routines. This will make it easier each time you want to bathe your dog. Also, bathing a dog can be easier if the proper equipment is available or the dog is in the habit of bathing. This ensures a quality washing and rinsing job.

•     Keep a positive attitude yourself – dogs love the attention from their owners, but they are quick to pick up on their owner’s mood, epspecially fear, stress and anger. Keep your tone light, and playful but firm throughout the whole procedure. Most important -- Don't yell! That will only frighten your dog and make it harder to wash him the next time. This should be as fun an experience as possible for your dog, to make the next time easier.

•     Avoid anything that causes pain – it only takes one bad experience to make your dog change his mind about bathing

•     Most importantly - don't forget to reward your dog's good behavior in the bathing process with treats and plenty of loving kindness. Give your dog lots of praise, pets, or a special treat or toy when you are through.

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