How to Wash Your Dog Outside

Advantages and Disadvantages

Bathing your dog outside has its perks. As soon as you finish bathing your dog, it can freely shake off the excess water outside and you don’t have to worry about cleaning up the bath area as you would indoors. 

A big problem encountered when bathing your dog outside is the distraction. Playing children, loud noises, passing animals or cars can distract your little friend. It may be a challenge to keep your dog in the tub.

In addition, you never know what Mother Nature has in store; the weather may not be on your side when it’s time to give your pooch a good wash down.  You can’t exactly bathe them while it’s raining outside, snowing or when it’s windy. 

Therefore, setting up a permanent area outside your house to bathe your pet dog may not be such a good idea.  If you prefer to wash your dog outside, we recommend that you buy one of those collapsible and portable grooming tub, and elect another area (commonly the bathroom tub) inside the house. Then you can have the best of both worlds.

Instructions on How To Wash Your Dog Outside

When it comes to the actual dog baths, the procedure is the same regardless whether you are inside or outside of the house. Check out our definite guide to washing your dog.

How cold is too cold to bathe your dog outside?

You should bathe your dog outside only if the weather permits it.  Bathe your dog inside your house, if the weather is too cold outside. Keep your dog away from drafts, at least till your dog is thoroughly dry. Dogs don’t mind bathing outside, but keep your temperature above 90°F or 32°C. If you go below the recommended temperature, it may be too cold for them and they won’t be as cooperative.

Conclusion

Learning how to wash your dog properly takes practice. The first time is always the hardest, but after some time and experience, things will get a lot easier and faster. It will take some time for your dog to get comfortable with dog baths, so you need to be patient.

Do some research or get more information from your veterinarian about bathing your dog.  There are many breeds of dogs out there and some need special requirements when it comes to grooming. Dogs with smoother coats may not require too many baths, but outdoor dogs are prone to dirt and dust, so bathing will be inevitably frequent.  Corded breed dogs, can be a challenge, given their massive coat. If you do not know how wash your dog efficiently, this would be a difficult task.