Gentle Ways to Keep Your Dog Warm and Comfortable After a Bath

7 min readOct 23, 2023

Bathing your beloved dog is an essential part of their grooming routine. However, it’s not uncommon for dogs to shiver after a bath, leaving pet owners concerned about their furry friend’s well-being. In most cases, a little shivering is normal as dogs try to regulate their body temperature. But if your dog shivers excessively or shows signs of discomfort, it’s essential to take steps to keep them warm and comfortable. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore gentle methods to help your dog stay cozy and relaxed after their bath.

Understanding Why Dogs Shiver After a Bath

Before we delve into the strategies for warming up your dog, let’s explore why they shiver in the first place. There are several common reasons why dogs shiver after a bath:

1. Natural Response to Wet Fur

Dogs have a natural instinct to shake and shiver after getting wet. This behavior helps them remove excess water from their fur and aids in drying off. Shivering also helps dogs regulate their body temperature by generating heat through muscle contractions. It’s important to note that mild shivering is usually normal and should subside within a few minutes.

2. Temperature of the Bath Water

The temperature of the bath water plays a crucial role in how your dog responds to a bath. Just like humans, dogs prefer lukewarm water. Water that is too hot or too cold can cause discomfort and lead to shivering. Ensuring the water temperature is just right is essential for your dog’s comfort during and after the bath.

3. Anxiety and Stress

Some dogs may experience anxiety or stress when it comes to bath time. The unfamiliar environment, the sound of running water, or previous negative experiences can trigger fear and shivering. It’s important to create a calm and soothing atmosphere during bath time to help alleviate any anxiety your dog may have.

4. Room Temperature

The temperature of the room where you bathe your dog can also impact their shivering. If the room is too cold, your dog may struggle to stay warm after being wet. It’s crucial to ensure the room is adequately heated or consider using additional methods to provide warmth for your dog during and after the bath.

Now that we understand why dogs shiver after a bath, let’s explore some gentle methods to keep them warm and comfortable.

Tips to Warm Up Your Dog After a Bath

1. Check the Water Temperature

Before you begin the bathing process, check the temperature of the water to ensure it’s neither too hot nor too cold. Lukewarm water, similar to your dog’s body temperature, is ideal for a comfortable bath experience. Avoid sudden temperature changes, as they can contribute to shivering.

PRO TIP: FILL THE BATH WITH WATER BEFORE BRINGING YOUR DOG IN, ENSURING THE WATER IS AT THE RIGHT TEMPERATURE. THIS WILL PREVENT YOUR DOG FROM STANDING IN AN EMPTY TUB WHILE YOU ADJUST THE WATER TEMPERATURE, WHICH CAN BE DISTRESSING AND CONTRIBUTE TO SHIVERING.

2. Create a Calm and Relaxing Environment

Bathing can be a stressful experience for some dogs. Create a calm and relaxing atmosphere to help your dog feel more at ease. Use a gentle and reassuring voice, offer treats as positive reinforcement, and provide plenty of praise throughout the bath. This will help your dog associate bath time with positive experiences and reduce anxiety-related shivering.

PRO TIP: CONSIDER USING CALMING SPRAYS OR ESSENTIAL OILS, SUCH AS LAVENDER, KNOWN FOR THEIR SOOTHING PROPERTIES. THESE CAN HELP CREATE A SERENE ENVIRONMENT AND PROMOTE RELAXATION DURING BATH TIME.

3. Dry Your Dog Thoroughly

Drying your dog properly is essential to prevent excessive shivering. Start by using a towel to gently remove excess water from their fur. It’s helpful to have multiple towels on hand to ensure thorough drying. Begin with a towel to absorb most of the moisture, then switch to a second towel to continue the drying process.

PRO TIP: TO SPEED UP THE DRYING PROCESS, YOU CAN USE A HAIRDRYER ON A LOW HEAT SETTING. HOWEVER, MAKE SURE TO KEEP THE HAIRDRYER AT A SAFE DISTANCE FROM YOUR DOG’S SKIN AND AVOID USING IT NEAR SENSITIVE AREAS, SUCH AS THE FACE OR EARS. ALWAYS MONITOR YOUR DOG’S COMFORT LEVEL AND STOP IF THEY SHOW SIGNS OF DISTRESS.

4. Provide Warm and Cozy Bedding

After your dog is mostly dry, provide them with warm and cozy bedding to help them stay comfortable. A freshly cleaned and dry blanket or dog bed can provide insulation and keep your dog warm as they continue to dry off. Place the bedding in a warm and draft-free area to create the perfect snuggle spot for your furry friend.

PRO TIP: IF YOUR DOG IS PARTICULARLY PRONE TO SHIVERING OR GETS COLD EASILY, CONSIDER USING A HEATED DOG BED OR A MICROWAVABLE HEATING PAD DESIGNED FOR PETS. THESE CAN PROVIDE EXTRA WARMTH AND COMFORT, ESPECIALLY DURING COLDER MONTHS.

5. Monitor and Comfort Your Dog

Keep a close eye on your dog after their bath to ensure they continue to warm up and show no signs of distress. If your dog is still shivering excessively or struggling to get warm, it’s important to seek veterinary advice. They can rule out any underlying health issues and provide further guidance on how to keep your dog comfortable.

PRO TIP: STAY WITH YOUR DOG FOR A WHILE AFTER THE BATH, OFFERING REASSURANCE AND COMFORT. PATTING, STROKING, OR CUDDLING YOUR DOG CAN HELP THEM FEEL SECURE AND EASE ANY RESIDUAL ANXIETY.

6. Adjust the Room Temperature

Before and after bath time, ensure that the room temperature is comfortable for your dog. In colder months, consider turning up the heat or using a space heater to warm up the space before the bath. This will help minimize the temperature difference between the bath area and the rest of the room, reducing the chance of shivering.

PRO TIP: IF YOU’RE CONCERNED ABOUT THE ROOM TEMPERATURE, YOU CAN DRESS YOUR DOG IN A WARM DOGGY ROBE OR SWEATER AFTER THEIR BATH. THIS EXTRA LAYER OF CLOTHING CAN PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INSULATION AND HELP THEM RETAIN BODY HEAT.

7. Avoid Bathing Late at Night

Bathing your dog late at night, especially during colder seasons, may not be ideal. The drop in temperature during the night can make it challenging for your dog to warm up after their bath. Whenever possible, schedule bath time earlier in the day when the temperature is milder.

8. Use Pet-Friendly Shampoo and Conditioner

Choosing the right shampoo and conditioner for your dog is essential for their comfort and skin health. Opt for pet-friendly products that are gentle and moisturizing, as harsh chemicals can strip away essential oils and contribute to dry skin, which can lead to shivering. Consult with your veterinarian to find the best products for your dog’s specific needs.

9. Consider Alternative Cleaning Methods

If your dog despises baths and shivering is a recurring issue, consider alternative cleaning methods. Dog wipes, refreshing sprays, or dry shampoos can be effective in between baths to keep your dog clean and fresh without the need for a full bath. These methods can be less stressful for your dog and help reduce the chances of shivering.

10. Seek Professional Grooming Assistance

If you find that your dog consistently shivers after baths and you’re struggling to keep them warm and comfortable, consider seeking professional grooming assistance. Professional groomers have the expertise and experience to handle dogs of all temperaments and can ensure a stress-free bathing experience for your furry friend.

In conclusion, while it’s normal for dogs to shiver after a bath, excessive shivering or prolonged discomfort should not be ignored. By following these gentle methods, you can help your dog stay warm, comfortable, and relaxed after their bath. Remember to create a calming environment, use appropriate water temperature, dry your dog thoroughly, and provide warm bedding. Monitoring your dog’s well-being and seeking veterinary advice if necessary will ensure their continued comfort and happiness throughout the bathing process.

Now, go ahead and give your dog a bath with confidence, knowing that you have the knowledge and tools to keep them warm and cozy afterward.