A clean dog is a happy dog. You might not think it from the way your pet rolls in mud and dirt all the time, but a dog that’s freshly bathed will enjoy being clean. Their coats will stay shinier and their skin healthier if they’re washed from time to time. Unfortunately, unlike cats, dogs have neither the instinct nor the will to clean themselves up, so you have to do it for them! Bath time is a chore for many owners, but with the right equipment close to hand, it becomes easier to manage a slippery, soaped-up dog. Here, we will show you how to find the best dog bathtub for your pup, their features, and accessories, to help you take some of the difficulties out of your decision before buying.
The Best Bath Tub for Dogs
Our pick of the crop, Nymbl Brand’s Elevated Booster Bath in large size for pet bathing is light enough to be easily portable, so you can position it wherever is best for washing your dog. It comes in two pieces, the bath tub itself and snap-on legs, which raises the dog wash tub to a height that’s comfortable for owners to work on cleaning their dogs without too much bending. The snap-on legs are also fitted with rubber feet to avoid slippage while your dog is getting into or out of the bath, or while it is in use.
Because the bath is free-standing, you can have full access to your dog from all sides, making it easy to ensure you don’t miss a bit. There’s a three-point restraint included which allows you to make sure your pet doesn’t abandon ship mid-bath. This features a quick-release removable collar, so there’s no fumbling around when bath time is at an end. A non-slip mat is fitted to prevent your dog losing his footing or slipping and hurting himself while in the water; and you can keep everything you need close to hand with the included shampoo caddy.
Dimensions: 45” x 21.25” x 15”
Max Weight of Product: 16lbs
Max Weight of Dog: 125lbs
Fixed Unit or Self-Assembly? Self-Assembly, Snap-on Legs
Material(s): Plastic
Color: Teal
- Brand: Booster Bath
- Model: Large
- Weight: 16 pounds
Suitable for medium and small sized pets, this dog bath tub supports weights of up to 150 pounds. Check the measurements closely to ensure that your pooch fits well within. Sturdy and durable, it has been very highly ranked by previous customers. The basin has been crafted using heavy-duty plastic, while the legs are made of stainless steel.
One of the top features is the 360-degree access, which allows you to bathe your pet from any angle. You can adjust the legs for uneven flooring, and the whole tub is lightweight and easy to move around from place to place as needed.
Easy access from all angles
Suitable for both medium and small pets
Elevated design to prevent back strain
Lightweight and portable
- Brand: Flying Pig Grooming
- Model: FP2020 White
- Weight: 20.1 pounds
The Flying Pig Stainless Steel Professional Pet Dog Grooming Bath Tub is certainly the most expensive on our list. However, it contains a whole host of features that mark it out as a great product for owners who are serious about their dogs or individuals who carry out dog grooming for a living. Constructed out of 16 gauge 304 type Stainless Steel, which is rust resistant, this product is built to last and is sturdy enough to withstand a lifetime’s worth of doggie bath times. As well as being easy to clean, all joints are fully sealed to prevent leakage while in use, including the door; which is easy to operate and securely locked while closed.
The unit has a ramp for allowing dogs to enter without owners having to do any heavy lifting. The floor panels of the bath tub are height-adjustable, so smaller dogs can be raised higher up to avoid their humans having to suffer back pain from reaching down for long periods.
Splash panels to the side and rear of the unit are removable, if desired, to allow 360o access to the dog while bathing. A stainless steel rack for shampoo and other tools is included, as is a drain kit for emptying the water out when bath-time is done. Additionally, there’s a hair trap for the plug hole to avoid that becoming clogged with loose dog hair.
Dimensions: 50” x 27” x 58”
Max Weight of Product: 197 lbs
Max Weight of Dog: 220lbs
Fixed Unit or Self-Assembly? Self-Assembly
Material(s): Stainless Steel
Color: Stainless Steel
- Brand: Flying Pig Grooming
- Model: FP701L
- Weight: 197 pounds
From the same manufacturer as the third bath on our list, this 38” stainless steel dog tub is ideal for washing and grooming smaller pets, up to 220lbs in weight. Like that bath, this one is constructed from 16 gauge 304, rust-resistant Stainless Steel and all joints and plates are securely sealed to be water-tight. The stainless steel surface also makes the unit easy to keep clean and guarantees longevity.
The dog wash sink itself is raised on stainless steel legs which are height-adjustable so you can position it at the perfect height for your own requirements, preventing backache. The legs can also be levelled if you position the bath on an uneven floor. Backsplash and side-splash panels can be removed if you want 360o access to your pet while washing him.
Dimensions: 26” x 38” x 57”
Max Weight of Product: 80lbs
Max Weight of Dog: 220lbs
Fixed Unit or Self-Assembly? Easy Self-Assembly
Material(s): Stainless Steel
Color: Stainless Steel
- Brand: Flying Pig Grooming
- Model: FP301-MTUB
- Weight: 80 pounds
If you struggle with your back when bending over to bath your smaller dog, then this cute looking bath station could well be your solution. Portable, lightweight yet stable when erected, the Furesh Wash Station can even fit inside your own bath or shower to give you easy access to both water and your pet. The elevated tub section raises your dog nicely, so you take away the strain from your back and knees. And you can secure your slippery pooch inside, thanks to the three-point leash restraint. There is no door access but as it is designed for smaller pooches (up to 40 pounds), lifting your dog inside should be stress free. And two convenient side pockets will help to keep all your bathing kit and shampoos easily close to hand.
What we like about the Furesh is the attached stretchable hose so you can drain away the water and the center handle which pulls up to collapse the whole bath station when your dog is done, for easy storage or transport. This wash station may not fit in all bathtubs, as it needs a flat surface for the feet to make a secure contact but for most households with smaller dogs this could well be your dog bathing solution.
Elevated wash station for dogs up to 40lbs
Basin dimensions: 32.3” x 17.8” x 11.1”
Max weight of product: 11 lbs
Max weight of dog: 40lbs
Fixed unit or self-assembly?
Material(s): aluminum
Color: gray
- Brand: Furesh
- Weight: 11 pounds
This Pet Gear dog bathing tub has been developed to cover many bases at bath time. They have included a shelved area that contains two storage tray spaces to allow you to keep your dog’s shampoo and other bathing supplies within reach. It’s common knowledge that a lot of dogs hate bath time, not unlike cats! Sometimes it’s the sound if you’re using the showerhead, sometimes it’s the feeling of being trapped inside a big tub of water. Having a smaller tub like this can help alleviate the stress of bathtime. Especially seeing as Pet Gear has designed this tub to have transparent sides, for a more open feel.
Another reason many dogs become anxious at bathtime is because of their inability to keep their footing, which triggers a fight or flight response at the prospect of falling beneath the water and drowning (even if the water is only a few inches deep). This tub has got a rubberized bottom on the interior to prevent them from slipping, long with two tethers to help keep them secure. Combined, these two elements should help your pup to feel much safer whilst you clean away the grime of the day.
Two storage trays for shampoo and other bath supplies.
Two tethers to keep the dog secure at bath time.
Rubberized bottom inside to prevent pup from slipping whilst bathing.
Translucent plastic allows dogs to feel less trapped – reducing stress.
Grippers on the underside prevent the tub from slipping on any surface.
- Brand: Pet Gear
- Model: PG2129OB
- Weight: 18.5 x 9.45 x 30.51 inches
If you’re looking for a dog tub with all the bells and whistles, this is pretty much the best you can get. PawBest has created a tub entirely design to match the specifications of professional grooming stations. With a faucet and sprayer included to hose down your dog quickly and easily. This tub also includes a ramp that leads up to the sliding door and can be tucked underneath the tub when not in use, as well as an anti-slip mat, and two tethering loops for extra security.
This would be the ideal purchase for dog owners with multiple dogs, or dog foster carers, as it is designed to suit all breeds and sizes. We do advise that you take into account the size of this setup before committing to purchase, as it is 15” deep and 50 inches wide, so you will need to ensure you have the correct space for installation. However, if you are able to install this top-of-the-line tub, you wouldn’t need anything else for bathing your puppy (except shampoo of course).
Built out of rust-resistant 16-gauge 304 type stainless steel.
Sliding door with a watertight seal and ramp included for easy access whilst avoiding leaks.
Compatible with 4”,6″,8” wall-mount faucet – sprayer and 6” faucet provided.
Equipped with overhead grooming arm with 2 tether loops, drain, anti-slip mat, hair trap, and 4 adjustable levelers.
- Brand: PawBest
- Weight: 185 Pounds
The Best Bath Tub Buying Guide & FAQ
Now you’ve seen some of the best dog bathtubs on the market, you need to decide which one is right for you. Here, we look at a few of the most frequently asked questions and some factors that might help inform your decision.
What to Consider When Buying Dog Bath Tubs
There are various factors to consider when shopping around for the right dog grooming bath.
- If your dog is heavy or if you suffer from back problems, an elevated bath is for you. While smaller baths could stand on a stable surface, this is not as good an option in terms of safety.
- Another question to ask yourself is where you will bathe your dog. If you’ll routinely do this outdoors, check if the unit contains features like a drainer to rid the dirty water.
- Additionally, another important factor to consider is if your dog bathtub has non-slip features. Make sure the bath’s surface and the legs or base that connect with the floor have non-slip features. This can prevent accidents and help make your dog feel more secure while in water.
- Cleaning the dog bathtub itself is another important factor: look for one that’s easy to keep clean.
- If storage is an issue, you want one that will break down into several pieces, or comes in one piece but folds down small.
- If you know for a fact that your dog hates baths with a passion, choose a bathing tub with a three-point restraint system for your own and your dog’s safety. You won’t then have to worry about them running away mid-wash!
The Purpose and Benefits of Using Dog Bath Tubs
While you can use your own dog bathtub at home, there’s much to be said for having a separate one for your dog. In terms of hygiene, many owners prefer to keep a dog bathtub specifically for their canine friend, saving the one in the bathroom for the humans in the household!
As well as that, if your dog’s bathtub belongs to your dog and he learns that then he’ll come to associate that with the routine and respond with good behavior accordingly.
A dog grooming tub is also an essential accessory if you’re thinking of starting your own dog grooming business; if this is the case, then you’ll want a flexible, highly durable, and sturdy unit as you’ll no doubt be accommodating a wide range of dogs of all sizes.
Check out More Dog Grooming Guides:
- Best Puppy Shampoos
- Best Dog Shampoo for Dandruff
- Best Dog Whitening Shampoo
- Best Dog Shower Heads
- Best Dog Nail Clippers & Grinders
- Best Dog Tear Stain Removers
- Best Dog Paw Washer
- Best Brushes For German Shepherds
- Best Brushes for Short Hair Dogs
Best Dog Bath Tubs FAQ:
Q: What is a dog bathtub?
A: Dog bathtubs come in all shapes and sizes. The majority of dog bathtubs are made of easy-clean materials. This covers everything from the simple paddling pool type, similar to the sort you use for your kids to play in during the summer, to professional dog groomers’ equipment that comes fully equipped with all you need to bathe your dog quickly and efficiently. These latter ones tend to be rust-resistant for long-term use and have their own faucets, spray hoses, storage slots for your dog shampoo, brushes, and so on.
In between, there are mid-range fixed units, often on legs, that have some features making bath time easier, such as raising your dog to a comfortable height for you to work on cleaning him.
Q: Where should I put my dog bathing tub?
A: One of the first things to take into account is whether your dog loves or loathes bath time. If it hates the very idea, then outdoors might not be the right location. At least indoors, they’ll be in a more confined space, where you can monitor them more easily. More than that, he can’t roll around on the grass or in mud to get the water off him.
If he’s not averse to the odd soaking, then outdoors can be great – you can use a hose to rinse him off in warm weather, if he’ll tolerate it, and the water won’t ruin your interior furnishings. You could also try keeping him on a leash so he can’t disappear on you halfway through!
Wherever you choose, make sure the floor surface is as non-slip as possible. It’s likely to get wet and you or your dog could have a nasty fall if taken by surprise. If you’re using your dog bathtub on a tiled surface indoors, place non-slip mats or towels underneath the bath and the area beside it where you and any helpers will be standing or kneeling.
Q: How can I get my dog in its bathtub?
A: This is a case of training and acclimatization. While it’s a process best started with a young dog, most pets can be trained to get in the tub, given time and patience. Start off with a dry tub. Encourage him to jump in by using treats. Praise him when he gets in.
Next time, use a command, like ‘Get In!’. Offer treats when he does as he’s told. There’s no need to reward him for getting out again, but reward him if he’ll ‘sit’ and ‘stay’ in the tub on command.
Then, try adding a little water, then spraying him gently with a hose. If he’ll tolerate that (and it may take a few tries), then add more and more water till you reach the ideal level.
Praise good behavior and stay calm at all times, and with patience, your dog will come to view bath time with equanimity – or even better still, enjoy it!
Q: What size dog bathtub do I need?
A: You need a size that’s appropriate for your dog. It’s potentially dangerous for them to be crammed into a confined space that’s too small for them. They will not enjoy feeling cramped and they can risk hurting themselves if they panic as a result. If your pet can move around a little and stretch out, it will be easier to clean them.
Likewise, you don’t want a bath that’s too big for your dog as you need to be able to keep them under control while in the water. Choose a dog bathtub that’s recommended for the size, weight, and/or breed of dog you own for best results.
Q: Should I clean the dog bathtub after every use?
A: You’ll be bathing your dog when he’s dirty and so it stands to reason that the water will be filthy when it’s time for him to get out. Dirt and bacteria are likely to build up fast in a pet bath that’s never cleaned. As well as the smell while it’s in storage between uses, you’ll be bathing your pet in water that’s dirty from the outset, which doesn’t make sense. It’s unsanitary; so yes, it’s best to clean out the tub after every use.
Q: How often should I bathe my dog?
A: The answer varies from breed to breed, depending on factors such as the type of coat they have, what their daily lifestyle is like, and even whether they have any allergies or skin conditions.
As a general rule, experts recommend bathing your dog every one to three months, or more frequently if he’s the type to roll around in the dirt or swim in the sea on a regular basis. In fact, dogs with longer coats may need bathing anything from weekly to every month or so. Additionally, over-bathing can strip essential oils from a pet’s skin though and/ or cause aggravation, so always check with experts, from your vet to online specialist dog websites, for advice on your own dog’s requirements.
Q: Can I use my dog bathtub for animals other than a dog or cat?
A: If noted by the manufacturer, then yes, of course; although some animals – like cats! – maybe less keen than others. Several of the collapsible pools on our list above, for instance, are great for ducks!
Our Top Pick
All the above have their own merits, but in our opinion, the best dog bathtub for all-around use is the Booster Bath Elevated Pet Bathing large size. Light and portable, it’s easy to assemble, but can be stored or left in the yard when not in use. Because it’s freestanding, you have 360o access to your dog at all times; and he can’t run away either because it comes fitted with a three-point harness. All these features and more, in conjunction with an affordable price tag, make this our best buy when it comes to dog bathtubs.
