Chrissie Klinger
|July 18, 2016
Many pet parents dread giving their dog a bath, especially if they're new to pet parenting. With the right dog-washing supplies, however, bath time can be a rewarding experience for both of you. Here's a handy checklist of things to have when washing your dog at home.
A supply bucket serves two purposes: First, it gives you a place to keep your supplies for quick and easy access in case your dog gets into a muddy mess outside. And second, you can fill the bucket with clean, warm rinse water if you don't have access to a sprayer–which can be harsh on small dogs and make it difficult to contain the water in the tub (assuming you're inside).
If your dog is dirty from an outing, you may need to skip this part and get right to the grooming. If it's a routine bath, comb or brush your dog before bathing to remove excess hair and check for fleas and ticks.
Whether you decide to use your bathtub, an outdoor tub, or go to a dog-washing station, be sure to choose a tub that gives your dog some room to move around–but not too much. You want to be sure the tub affords you comfort and control while washing him. Many online pet stores offer unique tubs made specifically for bathing dogs at home.
These are perfect for older dogs or large breeds because most tub options allow him to walk into the tub, instead of jump in with a splash. The tub can easily connect to an existing water supply and be used inside or outside. For smaller dogs, or those that get dirty while out and about, consider taking your supply bucket to a dog-washing station; more and more of these are popping up next to self-serve car washes.
These awesome items allow water to empty down the drain without hair or fur going with it. By trapping it for easy removal, you avoid clogged drains! Be sure to get one that properly fits the type of drain you have in your tub. Plastic may be easier to extract dog hair from than metal, depending on the hair's thickness.
This isn't a crucial item for home dog-washing supplies, but it can make bathing way more enjoyable. Be sure to find one that is long and can make it around your dog to rinse all areas thoroughly. In this case, sprayers are especially nice for the under-the-tail and back-leg areas, where soap can sometimes sit unrinsed and lead to dry skin.
If your dog has sensitive skin, be sure to stick with an all-natural dog shampoo that's free of dyes and perfumes. Some pups with dry skin issues do well with honey and oatmeal shampoos. If you're feeling a little adventurous, according to PetHelpful, you can make your own dog shampoo using simple ingredients you may already have at home. Honey, oats, rosemary, and baking soda are just a few of the simple items you can use to make a dog shampoo that is safe and soothing at the same time.
Having a few old towels nearby during bath time can make cleanup much easier. You'll place towels on the floor, but have one or two within quick reach of the tub as well, so when your dog gets out you can absorb as much water as possible. Keep in mind dogs love to shake after being in water, so it's okay to hold the towel in front of you as a splash guard while your dog does some after-bath drying.
After you've dried off your dog with a towel, consider some essential oils to help your dog smell nice and prevent pests from climbing back on. Geranium rose oil repels ticks and lemongrass, whereas Pet360 suggests peppermint can repel fleas systemically. You should apply just a few drops along their back, and only use on dogs more than a year old.
Once you have all the proper dog-washing supplies for washing your dog at home, be patient with him the first few times. It's also a good idea to give your dog a treat after bath time to reward him for his patience. Eventually, you'll establish a bath time routine that becomes a great bonding opportunity for both of you.
Chrissie Klinger is an educator, writer and mother of two children, three dogs and three cats. Her dog Jake loves sitting on her lap every chance he gets! She enjoys living an active and eco-friendly lifestyle in rural Pennsylvania.
Supports energy & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, joints, heart & kidneys healthy
Tailored nutrition for Small & Mini dogs with our special antioxidant blend for lifelong immune support
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day one
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Fewer calories for less active large breed dogs
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small Paws dry dog food
Gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & supporting development in growing puppies
Chicken & Rice Stew with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Supports healthy joints, immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Chicken & Barley recipe with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to help your puppy build immunity and strong bones
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
18% lower calories vs. Science Diet Adult
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Large Breed dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat. In a delicious large bite size for large breed dogs.
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Learn helpful information about pancreatitis in dogs, including common symptoms, how it's diagnosed & treated, and long-term prognosis for dogs with it.
Discover if your dog is actually interested in watching TV, how to pick something you'll both like and the science behind some dogs' TV preferences.
Learn why dogs can be attracted to your cat's litter box, why it's important to keep them out of there and how to discourage them from this behavior.
Find out why crate training your puppy should be a necessary step in your home obedience teaching. Learn about all of the benefits of kennel training.
Learn the real reasons why your dog likes to chew on your stuff and some effective ways you can control his crazy chewing habits.
Cancer affects one out of three dogs in a variety of ways. Learn about the types of dog cancers, warning signs to look for, and treatments that can help.
Understand the importance of salt in your dog's diet, as well as the risks associated with excessive salt intake.
Learn if your dog sweats like you do, how hot dogs keep themselves cool and signs that your dog might be overheated.
Learn the basics about cardiomyopathy in dogs, including types of this condition, breeds affected, symptoms dogs might show and how veterinarians treat it.
Learn how reading & understanding your puppy's body language, barking, and whining can help with his obedience training.
Learn about the rules for house training your puppy, preventing your puppy from starting any bad habits, how to keep a schedule and rewarding good behavior.
Find out what causes some dogs' noses to turn pink in colder weather, which breeds experience snow nose most, and if it could indicate a health issue.
Learn important information about Leptospirosis in dogs, including what it is, how its diagnosed, common symptoms & treatments, and prevention tips.
Learn about megaesophagus in dogs, how it makes digestion difficult & impacts your dog's health, and tips for helping you manage this condition.
Explore some of the many small dog breeds that don't shed, why they can be better for people with allergies, and which breeds could fit your lifestyle.
Discover how common dental disease is in dogs and what you can do to help prevent it happening to your dog.
Wondering if a vegan dog diet would work for your pup? Learn the health implications of vegan food for him and how to handle his diet if you are a vegan.
Get helpful advice on basic care requirements to keep your aging dog healthy and happy in his golden years.
If your dog is behaving strangely and you suspect something is wrong, learn some common behaviors they may be exhibiting to show they're not feeling well.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
©2025 Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. As used herein, denotes registered trademark status in the U.S. only; registration status in other geographies may be different. Your use of this site is subject to the terms of our Legal Statement. About our Ads. Cookie Consent Tool