Goldendoodles are known for being affectionate, playful, and loving. They can also be a bit of a challenge when it comes to bath time! Whether you’re a new Goldendoodle parent or an experienced one, this guide will provide tips and tricks on how to make bath time successful with your difficult canine.
Prepare the Bathroom – First things first, create a calming atmosphere in your bathroom before starting the bathing process. Make sure all your supplies are close by such as shampoo, towels, and treats. You may even want to play some calming music in the background or have someone else help you. This will ensure that your pup is comfortable and relaxed during the entire process.
Start with a Brush – Before getting into the tub, give your pup a good brush down with their favorite brush. This will help get rid of any excess fur or debris that could end up clogging the drain if it gets wet in the tub later on. Not only does brushing help keep your pup clean but it also helps build trust between you two as well!
Gently Desensitize – Once in the tub, talk to your pup calmly and pet them gently while slowly pouring warm water over their body starting from their head down towards their tail (the opposite direction of fur growth). Make sure to avoid their face at all costs—most Goldendoodles don’t like having water poured directly onto it—and instead pre-soak washcloths or use a sprayer attachment for cleaning around the face area.
Introduce Soap & Scrub – When lathering up, again be gentle and take your time so as not to startle or irritate your pooch! Use natural shampoos that are specifically formulated for dogs so as not to dry out their skin too much afterward (this goes for conditioners too). Be sure to rinse thoroughly after using soap or shampoo and then repeat if necessary until completely clean!
Bathing difficult Goldendoodles doesn’t have to be stressful or overwhelming; all it takes is patience, consistency, and lots of TLC! With these tips in mind, bath time should become much easier over time since both you and your pup will become more accustomed to one another throughout this process. So don't worry - soon enough you'll be mastering bathtime like a pro in no time!