A self-serve dog wash takes most of the stress out of bath time, but a little preparation goes a long way toward making the visit smooth for both you and your pup.

Start by brushing your dog before you leave the house or right when you arrive. Removing loose fur and working out any mats ahead of time helps shampoo reach the skin more effectively and cuts down on the fur that ends up in the drain or the vacuum afterward. Bringing your dog’s own leash or harness also helps keep them secure and comfortable in the tub, since it is a familiar piece of gear in an unfamiliar space.

Take a moment to test the water temperature before your dog steps in, and choose a shampoo suited to their coat and skin, whether that means something extra gentle for sensitive skin or a deeper cleaning formula for a dog that spends a lot of time outdoors. If your dog seems anxious, slow down and give them breaks rather than rushing through the process. A calm, patient approach usually leads to a much easier bath overall.

Once the bath is done, towel off as much water as you can before switching to the blow dryer, which speeds up drying time and keeps your dog more comfortable. A treat at the end helps build a positive association with the whole experience. And if your pup rode along in the car, it is worth giving the seats and floor mats a quick vacuum too, since a little wet fur has a way of finding every corner.