September 18, 24
A newborn puppy typically has their hygiene taken care of by their mom with loving (and kinda gross) tongue baths. But when can puppy parents take over bathing duties?
Pet parents should wait until their puppy is at least eight weeks old before embarking on puppy’s first bath. Puppies have gained the ability to regulate their body temperature by this age. Otherwise, a puppy bath runs the risk of causing overheating or hypothermia if you’re not extremely careful.
Depending on your puppy’s breed and fur type, puppy grooming may become a regular part of your pet care routine. If you plan to rely on professional groomers or public grooming facilities, wait until your puppy is completely vaccinated.
Being fully vaccinated means your puppy has completed the entire series of core puppy vaccines: multiple boosters of DAPP (distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza, parvovirus) and one rabies vaccine. Your vet may recommend additional vaccines, like Bordetella, before using shared DIY puppy washing stations.
If a young puppy is in need of cleaning before they are eight weeks old, you can provide a sponge bath. Gently cleanse the dirty parts of the puppy with a cloth dampened with warm water. Don’t use soap or water. Promptly and thoroughly towel dry the puppy and be sure to keep them in a warm environment. If a young puppy needs a bath because of persistent diarrhea or external parasites, consult a veterinarian.
How often you bathe your puppy depends on their hair coat type, fur length, and lifestyle, but plan for once a month or less. A long-haired dog that spends lots of time frolicking outside likely needs to be bathed more often than a short-haired dog that spends their time lounging inside.
Unless there’s a need for routine bathing to prevent matted fur or to maintain hygiene, bathing a puppy on an as-needed basis is totally fine. Bathing too frequently can strip off protective oils, leaving the skin and coat dry and flaky.
Occasionally, puppies may need more frequent bathing with medicated shampoos to address skin issues like bacterial infections and parasitic infestations. If your puppy has skin lesions, seek veterinary advice. If your vet prescribes a medicated shampoo, be sure to follow the directions closely.
Before giving your puppy their first bath, gather all the necessary puppy bathing supplies and have a plan to help your puppy feel at ease. Having everything within reach prevents the urge to leave your puppy unattended while you grab a forgotten item. It also lets you focus on easing any puppy anxiety and making bathing a safe, pleasant experience.
Safe location: Bathe your puppy in a place where you can have easy control of them and the water. A bathtub or large sink with a spray nozzle is ideal. Get a non-slip mat if needed.
Puppy shampoo: Be sure to use a shampoo that is made for dogs. Products formulated specifically for puppies are even better because they tend to be milder than adult dog shampoo.
Towels: Gather a couple soft, absorbent towels to promptly dry your puppy at the end of the bath.
Cotton balls: Cotton balls (not swabs) can be used to remove water from your puppy’s ears.
Treats
Washcloth
Puppy brush (optional)
Blow dryer (optional)