When you should start bathing your puppy ?

When it begins to move easily, the puppy wants to discover the world around him. Playing, rolling on the ground or even enjoying the garden are some of the playful activities for small canines. Whatever their breed, Yorkie, chihuahua, French bulldog or even golden retriever, our pets move and get dirty. But when can you wash a puppy for the first time ?

What is the ideal age to wash a puppy ?

Avoid the first bath for a puppy before 3 months ! Why ? With water and sometimes the cold, bathing can be potentially dangerous for puppies, as they are not yet able to regulate their temperature within 2 months. Bathing a small dog therefore risks weakening its immune system. Since the first wave of vaccination should take place within the 3rd month after the puppy is born, vets recommend waiting until the 12th week. In addition, if the puppy was not separated prematurely from its mother, it is she who takes care of its grooming during its first months of life.

How to wash a puppy ?

When is the right time to clean a puppy, it is best to follow certain hygiene and safety measures for a peaceful bath. Ideally, we bathe him in a large basin with water at 102,2 °F (like his body temperature). We start by soaping the head area then the rest of the body with light massages. On the other hand, we avoid the washing-up liquid or the shampoo for humans, because the pH of canines is different from ours. These products could cause redness or even itching. Better to opt for specific shampoos for puppies or for adult dogs. There are also dry canine shampoos available, ideal for use in cold weather.

Do not forget the dog bath toys (licking block, floating animals, etc.). They help distract from the toilet. The non-slip bath mat, on the other hand, keeps the puppy from slipping and stressing for that first contact with the foaming water. Once it is clean, it is dried using a suitable hair dryer to avoid any possible health complications. And the next one ? Vets recommend waiting four to six weeks, because washing a puppy too often can remove the oil film that naturally protects it. Obviously, if you come back from a muddy trip in the forest or if its smell becomes unbearable before the end of this period, you don't hesitate : take him the bath !