If you have ever seen your dog go from a calm and collected pup to an uncontrollable ball of energy after a bath, you may be wondering why this happens. It can be an overwhelming experience for your pup, and it can be difficult to know how to manage this sudden burst of energy. In this article, we will explore the reasons why your dog may go psycho after a bath and provide tips on how to help them stay calm.
Behavioural Changes After a Bath
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It’s not uncommon for dogs to become hyperactive after a bath. This behaviour is often referred to as ‘going psycho’. While it’s easy to dismiss this as a sign of a dog being excited, it can also indicate underlying behavioural issues. It’s important to understand why this happens so that you can help your pup feel more relaxed after bath time.
The Smell Is Different
One of the main reasons why dogs may go ‘psycho’ after a bath is because the smell of their coat is different. Dogs use their sense of smell to identify their environment, and a bath can alter their natural scent. This can be a bit disorienting for them, and can cause them to become more active or agitated.
Overstimulation
The sensation of water running over their skin can be quite stimulating for dogs. This can lead to an ‘adrenaline rush’, which can make them more active and excited. This is especially true if they are not used to being bathed, as they may not be familiar with the sensation of the water.
Fear and Anxiety
For some dogs, a bath can be a stressful experience. This may be due to a fear of water, or it could be caused by the fear of being restrained or held in place. If a dog is particularly anxious, they may become more active or agitated after a bath as a way to cope with their feelings.
Discomfort
Another potential reason why a dog may become hyperactive after a bath is because they are uncomfortable. The water can be too hot or too cold, or the shampoo may be irritating their skin. If this is the case, they may become more active in an attempt to escape the discomfort.
Seeking Attention
Finally, some dogs may become hyperactive after a bath because they are seeking attention. If a dog is used to getting a lot of attention and affection during a bath, they may become agitated when it ends. They may be trying to get you to keep petting and playing with them.
How to Help Your Dog Feel More Relaxed
If your dog is displaying signs of stress or discomfort after a bath, there are a few things you can do to help them relax. Firstly, make sure that the water is the right temperature and that you are using a gentle shampoo. You should also try to make bath time as stress-free as possible by talking to your pup in a soothing voice.
You can also give your pup some extra attention after the bath. This could include a few extra minutes of cuddling or playing. This will help them to feel calm and secure, and will make them less likely to become agitated.
Finally, you should try to make bath time more enjoyable for your pup. This could include offering them a treat during the bath, or playing a game with them afterwards. This will help to make the experience more positive, and will help to reduce any stress or anxiety they may be feeling.
Although it’s perfectly normal for dogs to become hyperactive after a bath, it’s important to pay attention to their behaviour and make sure that they are comfortable. If you can identify the cause of their agitation, you can take steps to make bath time a more positive and relaxed experience for your pup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my dog go psycho after a bath?
Answer: Many dogs become very excited or energetic after a bath because they enjoy the feeling of being clean and release a lot of pent-up energy. The sudden release of energy can often lead to a lot of jumping, running, and barking.
How can I make bath time more enjoyable for my dog?
Answer: Make sure to give your dog plenty of positive reinforcement during bath time. Praise your dog for good behavior and use treats or toys as rewards. You can also make the bath area more inviting by providing a comfortable spot to stand or lay in, adding some soft towels or a rubber mat, and playing some soothing music.
Conclusion
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Dogs may become hyperactive after a bath due to the altered smell of their coat, overstimulation, fear and anxiety, discomfort, or to seek attention. To help your pup relax after a bath, make sure the water is the right temperature, talk to them in a soothing voice, give them extra attention, and make the experience more enjoyable.
