How to Properly Dry Your Dog After a Bath

Drying your dog properly after a bath is just as important as the bath itself. Improper drying can lead to skin issues, matting, and discomfort.

Why Proper Drying Matters

Skin Health

• Trapped moisture causes bacterial and yeast growth
• Can lead to hot spots
• Causes skin irritation
• Creates unpleasant odor

Coat Health

• Wet fur mats more easily
• Air drying can cause tangles
• Curly coats especially vulnerable
• Proper drying maintains coat texture

Drying Methods

Towel Drying

Best for: Starting the drying process, short-coated breeds

Technique:

• Use absorbent microfiber towels
• Press and squeeze—don’t rub
• Rubbing causes tangles and breaks hair
• Change towels when saturated
• Focus on getting excess water out

Air Drying

Best for: Short-coated breeds in warm weather only

Cautions:

• Never for thick or long coats
• Can cause matting in curly coats
• Keep dog warm until dry
• Not recommended in cold weather

Blow Dryer

Best for: Most dogs, essential for thick and long coats

Types:

• Human hair dryers: Use on cool or low heat only
• High-velocity dryers: Professional tool, no heat needed
• Pet-specific dryers: Designed for dog coats

Step-by-Step Drying Guide

1. Remove Excess Water

• Squeeze water from fur
• Use absorbent towels
• Work from head to tail

2. Protect Ears

• Dry ears thoroughly
• Use cotton balls to absorb moisture
• Prevents ear infections

3. Start Drying

• Work in sections
• Keep dryer moving
• Maintain safe distance
• Check temperature on your hand

4. Brush While Drying

• Helps prevent tangles
• Speeds up drying
• Ensures thorough drying
• Results in fluffy, smooth coat

5. Check Trouble Spots

• Under ears
• Belly
• Armpits
• Between toes
• Under tail

Safety Tips

Avoid Burns

• Never use high heat
• Keep dryer moving
• Test temperature frequently
• Watch for signs of discomfort

Reduce Stress

• Introduce dryer gradually
• Use treats and praise
• Keep sessions short initially
• Consider a dryer with low noise

Common Drying Mistakes

1. Rubbing with towels - causes tangles
2. Using high heat - burns skin
3. Not drying completely - causes skin issues
4. Skipping hard-to-reach areas - leads to problems
5. Air drying long coats - causes matting

By Coat Type

Short Coats

• Towel dry thoroughly
• Air dry may be acceptable
• Quick brush when dry

Double Coats

• Towel dry well
• Use blow dryer on cool
• Dry undercoat completely
• Brush while drying

Long/Silky Coats

• Gentle towel pressing
• Blow dry on low heat
• Brush continuously while drying
• Use conditioning spray

Curly Coats

• Towel press gently
• Blow dry on cool
• Brush while drying (crucial!)
• Air drying causes severe matting

Professional groomers have the tools for perfect drying every time. Book an appointment!