Puppy Care Guide

🐶 When Should You Start Bathing?

It’s safe to begin full baths once your puppy is about 18–20 weeks old and the immune system is stronger. Before then, stick to warm-water wipe-downs for paws, muzzle, and bottom.

• Winter: every 5–6 weeks
• Summer: every 3–4 weeks
• Sensitive skin? Use a damp towel between full baths.

🩺 Tip: Over-bathing dries skin and removes protective oils. Adjust based on breed, coat type, and activity level.

🏡 Where Should the First Bath Take Place?

Begin at home in a quiet, calm area. Grooming salons can be stressful for first-timers. A home bath allows patience and reassurance — helping your puppy form positive memories.

• Pet-safe shampoo & conditioner (never human products)
• Soft towels + non-slip mat
• Lukewarm water ≈ 37 °C / 98 °F
• Treats for praise & calm behavior

PetGo Shop | First Bath Essentials

Make your puppy’s first bath gentle and stress-free with these vet-recommended care items — safe, soothing, and perfect for building positive grooming habits.

Burt's Bees Tearless 2-in-1 Shampoo & Conditioner

Seller: BURT'S BEES FOR PETS

Natural buttermilk and linseed oil formula — gently cleans and softens your puppy’s coat without irritation.

$9.99

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Earth Rated 3-in-1 Soothing Shampoo & Conditioner

Seller: Earth Rated (Canada)

Gentle oatmeal blend with white tea & basil scent — cleans, moisturizes, and deodorizes even the smelliest coats.

$19.99

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Bubble Hands Dog Shampoo Gloves

Seller: Bubble Hands

Silicone scrubbing gloves with built-in bristles — massage, clean, and remove loose hair effortlessly during bath time.

$17.99

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Veterinary Formula Gloss & Glide Detangler Spray

Seller: Veterinary Formula

Silk-protein shine builder detangles matted hair instantly — adds smoothness and healthy gloss after drying.

$14.19

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Bone Dry Microfiber Dog Bath Towel (44×27.5″)

Seller: Bone Dry

Quick-dry microfiber towel with cute paw print embroidery — absorbs water fast and keeps pups warm post-bath.

$16.85

View on Amazon >

Discover Full Essential Items for Bath

🧴 Step 1 – Preparation

• Brush out loose fur and tangles first.
• Ensure water is lukewarm, never hot.
• Wet gradually from paws upward; finish with the head last.
• Use a washcloth for the face — never pour water directly.

⚠️ Avoid spraying water into ears or eyes; wipe gently with a damp cloth instead.

🫧 Step 2 – Lathering & Washing

• Use a bath brush or silicone glove to massage shampoo into the coat.
• Short-coated pups can be washed gently by hand in circular motions.
• Rinse thoroughly — residue causes itching.
• Keep your tone calm; your voice sets the puppy’s mood.

🐾 Extra Tip: Keep water pleasantly warm throughout the bath to avoid chills.

🧼 Step 3 – Special Areas to Clean

1. Ears: Block water with your hand or cotton pads; wipe flaps afterward with pet ear cleanser.
2. Paws & Pads: Dry carefully and apply paw balm if cracked or dry.
3. Anal Glands: Normally self-expressed; ask a vet or groomer for safe cleaning if odor or swelling appears.

🧴 Step 4 – Rinsing & Finishing Touches

Rinse once more to remove all product. For extra shine, you can mix a few drops of pet-safe coat oil in warm water for the final rinse.

💡 Pro Tip: Use pet conditioner after shampooing to lock in moisture — especially for Poodles, Retrievers, or Shih Tzus.

🧺 Step 5 – Drying & Aftercare

• Pat dry with a towel — avoid vigorous rubbing.
• Use a low-heat dryer ≥ 20 cm (8 in) away while combing gently.
• Reward calmness with treats after drying.

⚠️ Ensure no water remains in the ears — moisture can trigger infections, especially in floppy-eared breeds.

🌤️ Bath Frequency & Seasonal Adjustments

• Winter: Every 5–6 weeks using moisturizing formulas.
• Summer: Every 3–4 weeks or after muddy play.
• Rinse with clean water after swimming even if skipping shampoo.
• Use a humidifier indoors during dry Canadian winters to prevent static and dry skin.