I believe it's important to make baths as pleasant as possible, and there are many ways to do this. I think Joey actually enjoys the whole experience, but it didn't start out that way. I put several layers of towels on the counter and bath him in a plastic dishpan in the sink. I make sure the water is the proper temperature by checking it with my forearm. Error on the side of coolness because puppies are extremely sensitive to hot. I fold his earflaps down over his ears when rinsing his back. I'm very careful when washing his face and save this for last and don't make a big to-do out of it. I heat his towel in the microwave and wrap him the warm towel after his bath. He lies very still on the padded counter for several minutes afterwards covered with this towel; it's actually funny to see him lying so still. When they are puppies, it's not as important to get every nook and cranny clean, but to make the grooming process pleasant so that as they get older they aren't afraid of the whole thing. Joey breeders said don't use a reassuring voice, but use a matter of fact voice. |