Slowly Introduce Bath Routine To Dog
Question: My 1-year-old Norwegian elkhound hates getting a bath. When it's bath time, he runs. If I try to lead him into the bathtub with his leash, he freaks out.
Answer: Try putting the leash on him and just walk him around the house, not near the bathroom. If all goes well, give him a treat, reward and release him. Get him used to having the leash not be associated with the tub.
Next, using just his collar, lead him into the bathroom, and close the door. Sit on the floor, play with the pup and then calmly get up and leave. Do this for a few weeks. Then one day just pick him up and put him in the tub. Make sure you have a rubber mat in the tub so he won't scramble.
Once in the tub, hold him there for a few seconds. If you notice he relaxes, give him a treat and take him out. After a few sessions, try turning on the water, but don't get him wet.
Eventually, you should be able to convince him that bathing isn't the big deal he thinks it is, especially if he's rewarded for good behavior.
