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Dog of the Day: Rupert!
Meme of the day: It could be worse!
Shake, Shake, Shake It Off!
If you’ve ever given your dog a bath, you’ve likely witnessed the post-bath shake—a vigorous, full-body movement that sends water scattering in every direction. It’s almost like an instinctual dance of freedom. But why do dogs do this? Is it just a quirky habit, or is there science behind it?
Let’s explore the fascinating causes of your dog’s post-bath shake and discuss how you can make bath time more comfortable for your furry friend.
The Science of Shaking Off Water
Dogs instinctively shake off excess water to dry themselves quickly. Unlike humans, who can simply towel off or use a blow dryer, dogs rely on their natural shaking mechanism. Research has shown that a dog’s shake can remove about 70% of the water from their fur in just a few seconds!
The reason? Wet fur is heavy and can make your pup feel uncomfortable. Plus, if a dog stays wet for too long, it can lower their body temperature, leading to chills—especially in smaller or short-haired breeds.
Shaking to Reduce Stress
For some dogs, bath time is not their favorite activity. The water, the scrubbing, and even the smell of shampoo can feel overwhelming. After the bath, shaking isn’t just about drying off—it’s also a way for dogs to release tension and regain a sense of normalcy.
Have you ever noticed your dog shaking after a vet visit or when it is startled? It’s the same concept—shaking helps your dog reset emotionally.
Getting Rid of the “Weird” Smell
Dogs have an incredibly strong sense of smell—about 40 times stronger than ours! So, while we may love the fresh, clean scent of dog shampoo, your pup might think otherwise. Many dogs shake after a bath simply because they want to get rid of the unfamiliar scent and return to their natural smell.
Water Feels Strange on Their Skin
Even though some dogs love swimming, standing still in a bath with water dripping down their body can feel different. Unlike in a lake or pool, where they can move freely, the sensation of water clinging to their fur might be uncomfortable, prompting them to shake it off as soon as possible.
How to Help Your Dog Dry Off Faster
While shaking is a natural and effective way for dogs to dry off, you can help speed up the process and minimize the mess:
🛁 Use an absorbent towel – Gently pat and rub your dog with a soft, absorbent towel immediately after the bath—even before exiting is a good way to reduce water flying.
🛁 Bathe your dog in a warm room – This prevents them from getting too chilly, reducing the urgency of shaking to warm up.
🛁 Give them a post-bath treat – Rewarding your pup can help turn bath time into a more positive experience.
Family Photo of the Day: Benji Magoo!
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Sources:
Dog of the day: IG rupert_the_bear_and_friends
Meme of the day: IG riley_theminidachshund