Care

Why Does My Dog Get In the Shower With Me? (+What to Do!)

Wondering “why does my dog get in the shower with me?” or thinking about showering with your dog and wondering if it’s okay? While it may seem strange, it’s not as uncommon as you might think. Dogs have various reasons for wanting to be close to their owners, even in the shower.

We’ll explore why your dog jumps in the shower with you or chooses to sit outside the shower door. Plus, we’ll tackle the concept of showering with your dog, including whether it’s safe or a good idea to bathe together. If you’re trying to keep your dog calm while you shower or considering making them part of your shower routine, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading!

Why Does My Dog Get In the Shower With Me?

Why Does My Dog Get In the Shower With Me?

Your dog gets in the shower with you for several reasons, including curiosity, a desire for companionship, or because they find the water intriguing or comforting. Dogs often follow their owners to stay close and partake in activities together, viewing this as an opportunity for bonding or simply because they enjoy the warmth and humidity of the shower environment.

Why Does My Dog Jump in the Shower With Me?

Your dog jumps in the shower with you due to curiosity or the desire to be close to you. The sound of running water can also be enticing for some dogs, leading them to investigate and join in. Additionally, if your dog enjoys water, jumping in the shower might be a natural extension of this preference.

Why Does My Dog Sit Outside the Shower?

Your dog sits outside the shower typically because of a combination of loyalty and protective instinct, with separation anxiety also being possible. They may want to be close to you even if they’re not fond of water or are waiting patiently for you to finish.

How to Keep Dog Calm While I Shower

To keep your dog calm while you shower, consider providing a comfortable bed or mat in the bathroom where they can wait. You can also offer a special toy or treat to keep them occupied. Train your dog to understand to go to this spot for short periods, and that doing so and staying calm will be rewarded. Be consistent and patient.

Dogs get in the shower with you for a variety of reasons, ranging from simple curiosity or anxiety, to a deep-seated need to be close and protect. These steps will help will keep them calm, but it’s important to remember that any underlying behavioral issues (separation anxiety, overprotectiveness, etc.) that were causing all of this to begin with will still be present.

And until you address those, any positive changes you see will only be temporary.

“Well, how do I make these changes last?”

By getting your dog to truly choose to follow your direction, that’s how. I tried many times to write out how you can do that before deciding it made more sense to just link you to the free video series that explains it better than I’d ever be able to.

The series is by a man named Dan who is one of the world’s leading dog obedience trainers. In it, he teaches you how to put an end to things like your dog jumping in the shower with you and all other misbehavior using his fast and easy-to-follow methods.

In the first video, Dan will reveal to you why the two most common methods of dog training only doom you to failure. You can watch the video now by clicking here. Follow the proven system he’ll show you in his series and you’ll never have to spend another second worrying about your dog getting in the shower with you ever again!

Showering With Your Dog

Showering With Your Dog

Showering with your dog may seem unusual to some, but for others, it’s a practical and rewarding bonding experience. Deciding whether to shower with your dog depends on various factors including the dog’s size, temperament, and the cleanliness aspect. It’s important to approach this activity with safety and comfort in mind for both you and your pet.

Can I Shower With My Dog?

Yes, you can shower with your dog, but it’s important to consider a few factors first. Ensure that the water temperature is comfortable for your pet (dogs typically prefer lukewarm) and that you use a dog-friendly shampoo. Keep the shower sessions short to prevent your dog from becoming anxious or stressed.

Additionally, consider your dog’s size and whether your shower space is adequate to accommodate both of you safely. If you decided to keep them outside while you shower, go back to the first section now for tips on keeping them calm.

Is It Weird to Shower With Your Dog?

Whether it’s weird to shower with your dog is subjective and varies between different cultures and personal preferences. For some, it’s a practical solution for keeping their dog clean, especially if the dog enjoys water or just because it makes bath time easier. However, it’s important to ensure that the experience is positive and stress-free for your dog.

Can I Bathe Puppy in Shower With Me?

Bathing a puppy in the shower with you can be done, but with caution. Puppies are more sensitive to temperature and may find the shower frightening or overwhelming. If you choose to do this, introduce your puppy to the shower gradually, use lukewarm water, and ensure you have a non-slip mat to prevent accidents.

Always use a shampoo formulated for puppies, and never leave your puppy unattended in the shower. Many puppies get very energized by all of this, so be prepared for some zoomies after the bath is finished!

In conclusion, showering with your dog can be a bonding experience if done safely and with your pet’s comfort in mind. Whether you’re considering showering with a large dog or bathing a puppy, it’s important to approach the process with care, ensuring the shower is a positive space for your pet.

I’m sure you’re ready to begin now that you have all of your questions about your dog jumping in the shower with you answered, so I’ll let you get started on things. Best wishes, and thank you for taking a look at our article “Why Does My Dog Get In the Shower With Me? (+What to Do!)”.

The Author

KB Williams

KB Williams

Hey there! I'm a dog behavior expert and lover of travel. Since 2016, I've been sharing my knowledge of dog training and behavior while exploring the Pacific Northwest with my two rescues.