Creating a Positive Bath Time Experience: The 'Start Button' Approach

When I teach my new dogs, both adults and puppies, to accept baths and nail clipping, I use something called a "start button." In this post, I will explain how you can make bath time a pleasant experience controlled by the dog.

I begin by placing a towel, appropriately sized for my dog to sit on with some extra space, on the shower floor. The idea is to expose the dog to water only when it sits/stands on the towel. As soon as the dog steps off the towel, I stop the water.

Initially, I start by rinsing next to the dog with a very gentle stream, reward, and take a break. If the dog stays on the towel, I resume rinsing a bit closer, reward, and take a short break.

Eventually, I rinse a little on the paws. If the dog doesn't want to sit on the towel in the shower, you may need to start by placing the dog on the towel outside the shower. Use a bucket of water, dip your hand in, and stroke the dog as long as it stays on the towel. Reward every time the dog stays put when the water comes! Never scold the dog if it leaves the towel.

The Start Button works very well for nail clipping and other necessary tasks we must perform with our dogs. In conclusion, this training can prevent the dog from developing a negative association with baths, making it perfectly okay for the dog to be showered in the future.

/Mirabelle Wesden