Your Pup's First Bath

I was browsing the web to learn more about the first bath of a puppy. I'm not a first time dog owner but I wanted to learn more about this as I have recently added to my family a 2-month-old smooth coat Chihuahua, and having a tiny and fragile body, I'd like to learn more on when I can give him his first bath, and what nots.

At what age can you bathe a puppy?

Puppies at any age like to get dirty. But it is not smart to bathe your puppy when it is too young. You should only bathe puppies that are older than 12 weeks. Until they are old enough you might have to settle cleaning your puppy with a sponge bath. Before your dog is 12 weeks old the less water the better. Just spot clean your puppy with a damp cloth. Use a mild dog shampoo on the puppies sensitive skin and hair. Dry your puppy off right away


How To Bathe Your Puppy
Once your puppy is older than 12 weeks, you can give the dog a bath. Depending on the size of your puppy the sink or large bowl might be the easiest way to bathe. For larger pups use the bathtub.

• Before the bath starts brush your puppy well. This will remove excess dirt and hair. Brushing helps rid the dog of shedding hair. This will also prevent tangles or matted hair after the bath.
• Get the water ready!
• Make sure the temperature of the water is lukewarm. You do not want your puppy to be burned or to be too cold in the bath. Make sure the bath is comfortable for the dog.
• If you are using the bathtub or sink put a mat down to make it less slippery. A rubber bath mat under the dogs feet will make them comfortable. Sometimes the dogs can slip and hurt themselves during bath time.
• Next is the shampoo. You must select the correct shampoo for your dog. Use only puppy shampoo on your dog. These shampoos and conditioners are designed for your pup. Human shampoo and dish soap can be too strong for your delicate puppy.
• Use caution when lathering up your puppy and avoid getting soap in their mouth, nose and ears.
• Use warm water to rinse off your puppy. If you can use a hose or handheld sprayer, this will make the rinsing process easier. But make sure the flow of water is not too much for the little guy. Use a gentle spray or mist, but make sure they are well rinsed and no soap is left.
• After your puppy is rinsed clean, take them out of the bath.
• Use a soft towel to dry your pup off.If it is cold outside make sure the puppy is dried off completely before going out in cold weather.

source: Julia's Pet Portraits

Always remember, being the first bath that your 4-legged furry friend will be experiencing, make it as fun as possible. Don't forget to reward him with treats and always praise him if he does a good job.