Let's face it: Dogs are filthy creatures! Even the most poised and sophisticated-looking canine is bound to get into some messes. There's nothing wrong with a little filth now and again. A dirty dog is usually a happy one!
But to experience domesticated bliss with your furry friend, you'll need to provide baths regularly. No one wants to deal with a stinky pup that tracks mud wherever they go!
Plus, regular bathing and grooming are pivotal for your dog's overall health.
Trips to a professional groomer can add up over time. Instead of paying an arm and a leg for grooming services, why not do the job yourself with a dog bath tub?
The best dog bath tubs provide you with a professional grooming experience from the comfort of your own home. With loads of convenient features, these tubs simplify the process tenfold. They keep the mess contained while also putting all the tools and products you need within reach.
Not only that, but it makes the grooming process much easier on your dog. In a comfortable environment surrounded by familiar faces, dog baths become less of a nightmare and more enjoyable.
Ready to check out some of the best dog bath tubs on the market? Here are some of our favorite picks.
5 Best Dog Bath Tubs for Professional Grooming at Home
1. Flying Pig Grooming Dog Bath Tub
The Flying Pig grooming tub is a cute accessory that's modeled after a porcelain fixture. It features the same signature shape. However, this tub is made of thick, UV-protected plastic. The material holds up well outdoors and is light enough for easy transport. It even has a separate drain, which you can attach to a hose for greater wastewater control.
The tub sits on top of a durable stainless steel frame. While not adjustable, the stand does put the tub about three feet above the ground. That's waist-height for most, making it a super-comfortable choice for you.
The legs are stabilizing and easy to level for safety. For some extra peace of mind, the dub also has a three-point lead system. You can secure your pup's leash from three sides, preventing any movement that puts them in danger.
2. Booster Bath Elevated Dog Bathing and Grooming Center
Check out this all-in-one dog washing station from Booster Bath. It's a feature-rich option available in three sizes that comes with everything you need to get started.
The tub and legs are made of thick plastic. The legs are angled, which offers greater stability. The tub itself is tall and features a non-slip mat. There's also a U-shaped opening on the back, which you can attach a set of stairs or a ramp.
With the tub, you get a three-point restraint system, a collar, and a little tool caddy. It comes with a five-foot drainage hose and a handheld showerhead as well. The coolest part of the Booster Bath system is that everything stows away nicely. You can put the legs and accessories in the tub for easy storage.
3. Master Equipment Bathe & Go Dog Grooming Tub
The Master Equipment tub is another simple unit that looks like a porcelain fixture. Of course, this tub is made of plastic. If you look closely, you'll notice that it features an embossed pawprint pattern as well. The embossing adds a bit of traction for safety.
The tub is about 11 inches deep. However, it sits on top of a sturdy steel frame. It provides enough height to prevent back-breaking work.
Inside the tub, you'll see three harness points for stability. There's also a sizable drain and an innovative storage system in the back. A couple of built-in cubbies hold onto your shampoo and conditioner for easy access.
Professional Pet Grooming Tub
4. MiMu Pet Bath Grooming Tub Dog Washing Station from Home with Back Splash and Faucet Assembly
With 16-gauge stainless steel walls, the grooming tub from MiMU is built to last! It's a heavy-duty tub that caters to professionals. However, the average home groomer can take advantage of its many features, too.
This is designed to be a permanent fixture in your home. It features dedicated plumbing. You have a long drainage tube and connections for both hot and cold water supply lines. Inside the tub, you have a handheld shower, a holder to keep it stable, and a basket for your accessories.
The tub also comes with a non-slip mat. It's easy to remove, making cleanup and maintenance a breeze. The entire unit sits on sturdy steel legs, which have rubber feet for additional security.
Best Budget Option
5. Pet Gear Dog Bathing Tub, Ocean Blu
You can still get the tub grooming experience without breaking the bank. The Pet Gear tub is on the smaller side, measuring about 30 inches long and 18 inches wide. It's best for smaller dogs.
The tub is molded out of sturdy plastic. On the bottom, it has grippers for stability. It comes with a mat as well to prevent accidental slipping.
On the long sides, you'll find a couple of tethers. Attach them to your dog's collar to keep them stable. Then, use the built-in product tray to keep shampoos and other grooming products nearby. When you finish, use the bottom drain to rid the tub of water and dry it out.
The Benefits of Using Grooming Tubs
Chances are, you already have a tub and a hose that you can use to bathe your dog. So, why go the extra mile and pick up a dog bath tub? While it may seem over the top at first, these accessories can make a world of difference come bath time.
They offer several benefits that change the game and turn an otherwise dreaded task into something enjoyable.
A Dedicated and Familiar Grooming Area
The most significant benefit a tub offers is comfort and peace of mind. Have you ever wondered what visiting a groomer is like for your precious pooch? It's probably a scary experience for them!
It's a brand-new environment with cold appliances, terrifying machines, and a myriad of barking dogs. Even if your dog manages to keep their cool throughout the session, it's likely not something they look forward to.
When you bathe your dog at home in a tub, you're creating a comforting and familiar environment. The tub turns into a full-on dog washing station!
Your dog will grow to enjoy the experience. That's because you'll be the one doing the grooming! Your pooch will enjoy the one-on-one time they get to spend with you. Think of it as a bubbly bonding session.
Grooming Tub as a Training Tool
If you invest in a grooming tub early on, it can also become a valuable training tool. No young puppy wants to get a bath. As they get older, their experiences with grooming will make or break their attitude towards it.
Shove them feet-first into an uncomfortable grooming experience, and they'll hate bath time every time it comes up!
But if you use proper bathing techniques in a tub, they won't have any problem with it! Again, the tub acts as a comfortable and familiar spot. As long as you continue to use it, that tub will be something they adore.
Related: How to Win the Trust of a Scared Dog
Mess Containment
Who wants to deal with pet hair in their own shower or tub?
Unless you want to pick loose fur out of the same drain that you pull loose hair out of, it's better to have a separate tub for your dog! It keeps everything separated, which ultimately improves hygiene.
Furthermore, dog tubs do a better job of containing messes. Most traditional showers or human tubs are far too large to keep moisture and dirt in one place after a vigorous shake. Grooming tubs, however, will.
They have taller sides and are proportionate to your dog's size. Instead of far-flung mud and that wretched wet dog smell getting everywhere, you can keep dog baths contained to one space.
Convenience and Comfort
We're not talking about the comfort and convenience the tubs provide to your dogs here. This is all about you!
If you've ever bathed your dog without a tub, you know about discomfort all too well! Bathing and grooming require you to get down on all fours or hunch your back over.
Even with large dogs, it can be a real hassle on your back. If you're taking care of a small dog, you'll have to bend over even further.
It might not seem like a huge deal, but it can be back-breaking work.
Many grooming tubs on the market today are height adjustable. You can quickly raise or lower the tub to waist-level. That way, you can work without the pain!
Safety and Security
Finally, tubs are a lot safer than the alternatives.
In a traditional shower or tub, your dog is going to slip and slide all around. They could end up hurting themselves. Not only that, but the expensive finish on your tiles and fixtures could get damaged.
The same goes for typical outdoor environments. When you bathe your dog outside, you will end up flooding your yard. It turns into a slippery and muddy mess.
Once again, dog washing stations come to the rescue! These gadgets keep all the mess contained and create a safer environment. Most have non-slip mats and texturized materials to keep slipping to a minimum.
Things to Look for in a Dog Bath Tub
Dog bath tubs are highly specialized pieces of equipment. They only serve one purpose. Most are fine-tuned with features to make grooming more enjoyable for you and your dog. But like all canine products, there's a lot of variety out there, too.
To ensure that you're getting a tub that works for your needs, here are some of the most important things to look for.
Materials and Overall Durability
There's no right or wrong choice when it comes to material. The product that's suitable for you will depend entirely on your needs.
If you have a single dog, plastic dog washing stations are the way to go. Plastic light enough to stow away when not in use. You can move it anywhere and keep it out of sight when you're not using it.
Plastic is also pretty durable. It's not indestructible by any means, but it can certainly hold up well to years of use with a single dog.
Now, if you have a house full of canines to groom, metal may be a better option. Metal tubs are ultra-durable. They're robust enough to withstand pretty much anything!
Plus, most metal tubs are easy to clean and maintain. They're not as portable as plastic alternatives, but if durability is a priority, you can't go wrong with metal.
Don't just pay attention to the tub itself. Look into the legs and any accessories, too! Sturdy legs are a must, so don't forget to check those details before commit.
Size
This should go without saying, but you need to choose a tub that fits!
Your tub should be large enough to fit your dog comfortably. They need to have a little bit of room to move around. That extra space will come in handy when you need to get to those hard-to-reach cleaning spots, such as the belly.
However, you don't want it to be so large that it becomes cumbersome. Find a nice balance. You can use your dog's bed or kennel as a good reference point for sizing.
Also, consider how your dog will grow. If you have a young puppy, plan for the average adult size for their breed.
Access Method
Have you considered how your dog will get in? If you have a pocket-sized pooch, you don't really need a dedicated access point. You can simply lift your dog and place them in. But with large or medium-sized dogs, it's a different story.
Most grooming tubs have a door on the back. To access the door, they will either have a ramp or a step ladder.
Ramps take up more room than steps. However, they are much easier on the joints. If you have an older dog or one that's recovering from an injury, ramps are the more manageable and practical choice.
Otherwise, standard steps will do.
Pay close attention to how the steps or ramp attach. Do they fold down? Are they lightweight? The answers to those questions can make all the difference.
Height Options
Height adjustability is another thing to consider. Fixed height tubs are fine if you're in a pinch. But if you want to remain as comfortable as possible, choose one that adapts to you.
The right height will prevent you from excessively bending over. Additionally, a taller height may deter dogs from trying to leap out.
Non-Slip Bottom
Non-slip floors are a must! As we mentioned earlier, some texture at the bottom of the tub will help make it safer. Non-slip mats come in handy for any dog. But they're handy if you have a canine companion that doesn't like dog baths.
Dogs that attempt to flee from the tub are putting themselves in danger. The flight or fight response is strong, sending some dogs into a tizzy. If they try to escape in a slippery tub, disaster will surely follow.
A slip-resistant mat isn't going to stop your dog's escape attempts. But, it will help reduce the chances of injury. It'll keep things calm and prevent injuries from ruining bath time even more.
Tethers and Ties
Simple hooks are standard on professional grooming tubs. They help to keep dogs stationary, stifling escape attempts and preventing injuries.
Having a tiedown on your at-home dog washing station is essential, too. Even if you don't think that your dog will try to run away, they add that extra layer of protection.
Dogs are vulnerable when bathing. All it takes is one spook to send them running! The leash will stop those escape attempts in their tracks.
Bathing Tools and Accessories
Accessories and tools are vital for the overall functionality of a grooming tub. But, they can make a pretty big difference when it comes to convenience and versatility. Hoses and multiple shower heads turn the tub into an all-in-one dog washing station.
Many feature dedicated hoses. Just plug your standard water hose into the inlet and use the handheld showerhead for bathing your dog.
You might also see hose holders, places to put your shampoo and conditioner, and a floor drain. Some even come with things like splash guards or flexible arms.
The accessories that come with your tub will impact efficiency and convenience. Grooming is usually a one-person job, so why not have some extras to help you get the job done a bit easier.
Conclusion
Dog baths are a cinch when you have a professional-quality tub to use! These accessories might seem excessive or unnecessary at first. But once you use one, you'll never look back!
They make the grooming process so much more enjoyable for you and your dog. It turns a chaotic situation into a loving bonding session. Pair that with all the functional safety and efficiency benefits, and you have a must-have tool you'll be glad you bought!
Also Read: How to Deal with Matted Dog Hair
