THE BATH

Baths can be a terrifying experience for a young puppy. The new environment, the sound of the water, and the feeling of being wet can be overwhelming.

Here's a step-by-step approach to make bath time a positive experience:

• Start with a non-slip surface. Place a rubber mat at the bottom of your tub or sink. This prevents your puppy from slipping and makes them feel more secure.

• Use a gentle flow of lukewarm water. Avoid a strong, loud stream from the faucet or shower head, which can be scary. Instead, use a cup or a sprayer on a gentle setting to slowly wet your puppy.

• Use a puppy-safe shampoo. Never use human shampoo, as it can be harsh on their sensitive skin.

• Don't force it. If your puppy seems stressed or panicky, stop the bath. You can try again another day, but forcing them through a traumatic experience can create a lifelong fear of baths.

Once they're comfortable with bathing, you can introduce the hair dryer. Start by turning it on a low, cool setting in the background during a calm activity, like when they're eating or playing with a toy. Gradually, you can begin to use it on them for short bursts, always rewarding their calm behaviour with treats and praise. Remember, patience is key. The goal is to build a positive association with the experience, not to rush through it.