Bathing a dog can be an interesting experience and one that is often unlike how it is presented in TV shows and movies, where everyone is seemingly having a great time. While some breeds of dogs actually like to swim and don’t mind a bath, there are others that do not enjoy the experience at all, which can make bath time a hassle. In fact, most dogs don't like to be dirty, so having a bath is the last thing that they may enjoy.

However, instead of struggling to bathe your dog, here are five proven tips that will help make this chore much easier for both you and your pet. It's important to remember to start out slow, and the earlier you get your dog acclimated to to bathing and water, the better. However, even older dogs can learn to enjoy a bath, which is necessary to keep them clean and smelling great.

1. Puppy Love

When it comes to bathing dogs, a general rule of thumb is the younger, the better. Puppies generally do not have any ill association with warm water at this age, so it should be easier for them in general. The key is getting the puppy used to taking a bath so that it will be an experience they look forward to each time. Older dogs will require some more coaxing and persuasion.

2. Start Slowly & Be Positive

Dumping your dog in a big bucket of cold water is no way to get them to enjoy taking a bath. Instead, you should start with no water in the tub at all. Let them get used to the atmosphere of the empty tub while you play with them or provide a favorite toy or treat that they will enjoy. After this experience, you can put in a little bit of warm water - just enough to get their feet wet, and then go from there.

3. Use the Proper Products

You’ll want to use a shampoo that is formulated for a dog’s skin so that it does not itch or dry out. You can talk to your vet to see which type of shampoo works best. You may even be able to use baby shampoo, which is more afforable than dog shampoos and makes your pet clean and great smelling without irritating their skin.

4. Focus on the Neck Down

Think of the bath as for the body of the dog and not their head. Washing them from the neck down, where most of the dirt, debris, fleas, and ticks will be found, is much easier than starting from the head. You can use a sprayer if you want, but your hands will work nicely in rubbing in the soap and water starting with the neck area.

5. Keep Water & Soap Out of Their Ears

It is very important that the dog’s ears stay dry throughout the process of cleaning, not only because they find the water irritating, but it can also cause health issues. You may try to put cotton balls in their ears if they will let you, but the better move may be to simply avoid spraying any water or dipping their heads below the waterline so that their ears stay dry.

Afterwards, towel off the water from your dog and then get out of the way when they shake the rest off from their fur.

Five Tips on How to Bathe Your Shih Tzu

2. Start Slowly & Be Positive