Washing Your Dog from Ear to Paw: Eight Supplies to Make It Easy

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.

Supply Bucket

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).

Brush or Comb

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.

Tub

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.

Plastic Hair Trap

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.

Sprayer

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.

Soap

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.

Towel

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.

Oils

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.