5 Simple Tips For Washing Your Dog In The Winter

Wouldn't it be great if you never had to wash your dog in the winter? If you could somehow encase your pup in until spring to keep it looking pristine and smelling fresh, you probably would. Alas, winter can be a messy time of year, and pops up the question ”Can I bathe my dog in cold water in this chilly weather?”. With rain and melting snow creating puddles and mud, it's reasonable to assume that your pup will need at least one bath before spring arrives. Unfortunately, cleaning dogs during the winter isn't as simple as it is in the summer when you can just rinse them with a hose.

To make wintertime baths a little easier, we have compiled these 5 simple tips:

1. Take Your Dog for a Potty Break Before Its Bath

Exposing a wet dog to cold temperatures can put it at risk of hypothermia. Take your dog for a bathroom break before washing it. Another reason to take your pup out before its bath: It's not uncommon for a dog to suddenly get seemingly boundless energy and run like a shot out of a cannon (known as “the zoomies”) after it's washed. As you're probably aware, when a dog runs on a full bladder or stomach, it's likely to have an accident.

2. Create a Warm Environment

Before bathing dogs in winter, turn up the heat in your house by a degree or two. That way, your dog won't get chilled after its bath. Be sure that the water used for your dog's bath is nice and warm, as well.

3. Use the Right Type of Towel When Washing

While you may be tempted to use a regular bath towel to dry your pup, it's not a good idea. Those large towels can tangle your pet's hair and will get heavy and be hard to handle when wet. Instead, use a lightweight towel that has been created specifically for drying dogs and is preferred by many professional groomers. 

The Absorber  has a sponge-like construction that will draw water away from your pet's fur, which will allow it to dry quicker than if you were to use an old bath towel. The Absorber also has a smooth surface, so it won't tangle your pet's fur. In addition, you can run The Absorber under warm water to create a heated towel for your pup.

4. Don't Use Human Shampoo

Can you bathe a dog in the winter using human shampoo? Probably not a good idea. Human shampoo is too acidic for dogs and can irritate their skin. If your pooch has sensitive skin, try using a moisturizing shampoo or just plain water to bathe your dog during the winter months.

5. Go to a Self-Serve Dog Wash

Winter dog grooming is not easy. For example, it can be just about impossible to get a large dog, such as a Great Dane, in and out of a bathtub or to fit comfortably inside a conventional shower stall. If you own a large dog, your best bet is to take it to a self-serve wash facility.

Most facilities have step-in baths, so your dog can get in and out by itself. Many of these also have tubs that are set at waist level. You won't have to bend over and strain your back while washing your pup. Even better, you won't have to mess up your tub or worry about dog hair clogging your drains. If you wonder how often you should bathe your dog in winter, then the answer is once a month. 

Want another bonus to washing your dogs during the winter? Your house is bound to smell less like a dog to visitors if you keep your pets clean. Remember, bathing your dog doesn’t have to be cumbersome, follow the tips above and you can make it through winter with a clean and happy pup.