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How old should my puppy be before I give her very first bath?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | unspayed | 1 month old | 2 lbs

When can I give my puppy her first bath? She is about 13 days old

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on July 1st, 2017

I would never recommend bathing a puppy until it is at least 6 or 7 weeks old. Getting fully wet can make them very cold and interfere with their smell, that can annoy mum. There is no need to bathe such a young pup. If it is dirty use a damp flannel o gently rub it, but usually mum will lick them.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 5th, 2019

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I would wait to bathe a puppy until it is 8 weeks old. The worry is they can’t regulate their body temperature and can get too cold if not properly dried. If you have to bathe sooner, make sure to use a puppy shampoo and thoroughly dry them after. Kisses to Avenger!

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