What to Bring to a Self-Serve Dog Wash (Checklist)
Most self-serve dog washes give you the basics: a tub, warm water, a sprayer and shampoo. What else they include varies a lot. A staffed wash inside a pet store might hand you towels, an apron, brushes and ear wipes. A coin-operated bay at a car wash might give you water, soap and a dryer, and nothing else.
Here is what to pack so you are covered either way.
What most stations provide
| Usually included | Sometimes included | Rarely included |
|---|---|---|
| Raised tub with ramp or steps | Towels | Nail clippers |
| Tether to keep your dog in the tub | Apron for you | Specialty or medicated shampoo |
| Warm water and sprayer | Brushes and combs | Treats |
| Basic shampoo | Conditioner | |
| Dryer | Ear cleaner and wipes |
If you are not sure, call. It takes one minute and saves you showing up without towels.
The checklist
Always bring
- Towels. Bring two for a small dog and three or four for a large or fluffy one, even if the station provides some. Stations with towels sometimes limit you to one or two.
- Your dog's leash and a flat collar or harness. The tub tether clips to it. Don't use a choke or prong collar on the tether.
- Treats. Small, soft ones you can hand out quickly. They help get your dog up the ramp and keep them still in the tub.
- A way to pay. Coin-operated units may only take cash or quarters. Card readers at car washes aren't always working.
Bring if it applies
- Your own shampoo, if your vet recommended a specific one or your dog has sensitive skin. Ask the staff before using it. Most places are fine with it.
- A brush suited to your dog's coat, if the station doesn't have one. A slicker brush works for most coats, and an undercoat rake helps with double coats.
- A washcloth for cleaning the face without spraying it.
- Cotton balls, to keep water out of the ears of dogs prone to ear problems. Ask your vet first if your dog has a history of ear infections.
- A lick mat with some peanut butter (xylitol-free) or plain yogurt, for dogs who get anxious. Many tubs have a smooth wall it can stick to.
- A dry towel or blanket for the car, because your dog won't be 100% dry.
For you
- Clothes you don't mind getting wet, or the station's apron.
- Closed-toe shoes with grip. Wash floors get slippery.
- A hair tie, if you need one. The dryer blows everything around.
Before you leave home
- Brush out loose fur and mats. Mats get tighter when wet, and loose undercoat clogs the drain. A few minutes of brushing at home saves paid time in the tub.
- Walk your dog. Dogs stand still better after a potty break and some exercise.
- Check the hours. Pet store washes often stop taking dogs 30 minutes or so before closing.
Leave these at home
- People shampoo. Human products aren't made for dogs' skin. Stick with a dog shampoo.
- A choke or prong collar as the tub attachment.
- A sick or flea-covered dog. Most washes don't allow dogs with fleas, skin infections or open wounds, out of fairness to the next dog in the tub.
Quick printable list
- [ ] 2 to 4 towels
- [ ] Leash and flat collar or harness
- [ ] Treats
- [ ] Cash or card
- [ ] Shampoo (if needed)
- [ ] Brush
- [ ] Washcloth
- [ ] Car towel or blanket
- [ ] Clothes you can get wet
New to this? Read how to use a self-serve dog wash, step by step, then find a station near you.
Find a self-serve dog wash near you
to see the closest washes.