Calm baths at home: our 7-step routine
By Luis Herrera · 8 min read
Between grooms, a good home bath keeps coats healthy and appointments shorter. This is the same sequence we use in the studio, scaled down for your tub.
1. Brush first, always
Water tightens existing tangles into mats. Five minutes with a slicker brush before the bath saves thirty minutes of de-matting later.
2. Lukewarm, never hot
Aim for body temperature — what feels barely warm on your inner wrist. Hot water dries skin and makes dogs pant and panic.
3. Dilute the shampoo
Mix one part pet shampoo with five parts water in a squeeze bottle. It spreads evenly, rinses faster, and one bottle lasts months.
4. Cotton balls in the ears
A loose cotton ball in each ear keeps water out of the canal — the number-one cause of post-bath head shaking and infections.
5. Wash twice, rinse three times
The first wash lifts dirt; the second actually cleans. Rinse until the water runs completely clear and the coat squeaks.
6. Towel, then low heat
Press — don't rub — with a microfiber towel, then finish with a dryer on low, held six inches away and always moving.
7. End with the fun part
A brush-through, a treat, and a short walk. Dogs remember endings: finish happy and the next bath starts easier.
Rather leave it to us?
Bath & tidy appointments take under an hour and include nails and ears.