1. Mustee Dog Bathtub
Key Features
Heavy gauge steel legs
36-gallon capacity
Self-draining shelf
Looking somewhat sanitary with its strict, rectangular shape is the Utilatub from Mustee. This is a one-piece molded tub, made from polypropylene and heavy-gauge steel legs, which can be adjusted to suit any floor type. All-in-all this is a great indoor and outdoor dog bath that does well to resist mold, mildew and general staining.
Customers love the stability of the BigTub Utilatub and note that the straight edges make this an ideal dog bathtub to fit into a dedicate space around the home- ideal if you’re looking for a dog bath that can easily be plumbed into your garage or similar. A surprising number of reviews also mention that it doubles-up well as a great sink for their laundry room, as the tub is so large and so easy to clean.
2. Pet Gear Dog Bathtub
Key Features
Rubberized base
20lbs max weight
Two storage trays
With two quick-connect leash restraints attached to this Pup Tub from Pet Gear, this is a great option for those who have a new puppy, or own toy breeds. An ideal first step into the dog bathing world, this is a simple design that works well to gently encourage bath time with your dog.
With a non-slip matting and rubberized grippers on the base of the tub, this is a sturdy little dog bath that will help with any slips that might occur, as well as making it easier for your dog to get in and out of their new tub. It also comes with an easy-drain plug, although you’ll need to make allowances for picking up the bath or placing something underneath to catch the water as, unfortunately, this tub lacks any legs and therefore needs to be laid on the ground.
3. Flying Pig Grooming Professional Dog Bath Tub
Key Features
Commercial-grade dog bath
220lbs max weight
Rust-resistant stainless-steel material
As one of the best commercial-grade, pet grooming dog baths on the market, this professional, stainless-steel dog tub from Flying Pig Grooming is an ideal investment if you’re looking to set up your own business- or have a lot of heavy-duty dog cleaning to do at home. The adjustable floor grates allow for comfort, no matter what size dog you’re working with and the removable backsplash and side splashes allow for greater versatility while working, too.
This is easily the most expensive option on our list but comes with the greatest flexibility too. The materials are rust-resistant, and the dog grooming station comes with walk-in ramp, faucet with cold and hot water hose, sprayer with hose, overhead grooming arm, drain kit and hair trap, floor grates and Stainless steel shampoo rack. Making this the best all-in-one bath tub for commercial dog grooming.
4. Master Equipment Everyday Pro Tub for Dogs
Key Features
Colorful choices with zinc-plated, powder-coated steel
Max weight not given/ For small and medium dogs
Pre-drilled holes for easy plumbing
A brighter, quirky option from Master Equipment is the Everyday Pro Tub, which comes in a variety of eye-catching colors. Compared to other, commercial-grade dog baths, this is easily the most affordable, although some customers have complained that this can rust very quickly- so, be sure to dry your Pro Tub after every use to avoid this.
Nevertheless, this is still a quality option for those who are looking into setting up a business and want to check their potential before investing too heavily, or simply those who want the security of plumbed dog baths without the price tag.
5. Lilys Pet Portable Folding Bath Tub for Small Dogs
Key Features
Perfect for small pets
Max weight not given/For small dogs and puppies
Portable
A rather adorable puppy bathtub from LILY’S PET, this portable small dog bath tub is a great option for owners of toy breeds, puppies or simply those who want the ability to clean paws and tails, while on the go. The added storage pockets on each side allows you to bring along everything you need to wash your dog, on the go without worrying about jumping back and forth, too.
Designed to be taken anywhere and filled easily, this is easily the best portable dog bath tub on the market, today with an amazing price to match. Easy to use, quick to fill and able to fold down to an easily-portable size, this little wash tub for dogs is great for those who like to do a lot of travel with their dogs.
6. Flying Pig Grooming Stainless Steel Dog Bath Tub
Key Features
Great for domestic use
190lbs max weight
Removable backsplash and sidesplash
Our final choice is another option from Flying Pig Grooming, with this particular size being great for dogs up to 190lbs and around 38” long. Of course, the removable sides and backsplash do allow for some larger dogs and greater versatility in terms of how to clean your pup, too.
The leg levelers allow for adjustable heights to suit you and the easy plumbing system work for any and all water pipe configurations. Even better, this grooming station comes with a faucet (with hose), sprayer (with hose), shampoo rack, restraint eyelets and green rubber floor mat to ensure no clumsy slips and trips, as you work.
7. Furesh Elevated Folding Dog Bath Tub
Key Features
Basin made from marine grade PVC
Fold down frame for easy access
Supports pets up to 40 pounds
The Furesh aims to take the strain out of bathing your mucky pet, thanks to its elevated stand making it easier to reach and wash your dog. Made from easy to clean marine grade PVC, the basin is an ample size to fit small to medium sized dogs and includes a three-point restraint to prevent him from running off mid-bath. Designed for both portable bathing and also bath time at home, this is a versatile bathtub and pretty easy to use. You also get two handy side pockets to stash the shampoo and grooming tools, so they are easy to access.
The height of the stainless-steel tube stand – 36 inches – is also designed to ease the backache of leaning over the bath. Draining the Furesh is also quick and easy thanks to the built-in drain system, complete with a stopper and flexible hose. The only downside to this smart bathtub is that with the frame, it is on the large side, so may not fit inside all home bathtubs, but it does stand nice and stable on a solid floor.
Best Dog Bathtub Buying Guide & FAQ
What to Consider When Buying a Dog Bath Tub
- Domestic or Commercial
If you’re looking to set up a dog grooming business, or already have one on the go, then you’ll need a dog wash tub that can handle a range of dog sizes. Not only that, but the constant use can sometimes mean that domestic dog wash tubs will wear out sooner- so be sure to grab one that can easily withstand constant use.
Of course, if you just want a dog bath tub for your own pooch, you should get one that fits around you and your home. They don’t need to be as hard-wearing and you won’t have to worry about cleanliness as much, since you won’t be using the bathtub for multiple dogs in a day.
- Indoor or Outdoor
It might be easier for some to have their bathtub for dogs based outdoors, as you can make a bit more of a mess and even use your own hose- just make sure it’s warm enough for your dog to take a bath, without becoming ill through extreme weather temperatures.
Naturally, an indoor bath would be better for commercial purposes, since you’ll likely have a dedicated space to offer your dog bath. That said, if the bath is for your own dog, you can still use your new bathtub for dogs indoors, as long as you are aware of the potential splash zone.
- Size and height
This is important, not just for your dog(s) but for you, too. A dog wash tub that’s based on the ground means you’re likely to need to be bent over for a longer period, which can cause damage to your back if you’re cleaning your dog regularly. Of course, a lower tub can be better for dogs who suffer with joint pain and are averse to jumping into the tub. If you think you’re better with a higher tub, you can always invest in a dog ramp or simply lift the dogs into place. Head over to our review of dog stairs for more alternatives.
It’s also important that you get a tub that can handle the weight of a dog, plus the weight of water, as the tub fills and the dog’s fur will hold a lot of moisture. Pay attention to weight guides with your purchase and always give yourself a little extra room- especially if the dog bath is for a business.
- Features
One of the biggest selling points to any item is the number of features you’ll come across. In this case, the biggest features that can really make a difference include:
- An in-built dog ramp/steps: ideal for getting you dog in and out of their new bath, especially if they suffer from joint pain or are very nervous and so don’t wish to be picked up
- A three-point harness: can stop nervous dogs from moving around, while using the dog bath and causing themselves, or you harm
- A hose: Great for getting into all those tougher spots, such as between the legs. Hoses are also more accurate, so you’re less likely to get water in their ears or over their face with this.
- Storage: Easily the best way to get everything ready before you start, storage means you won’t be spending time away from your dog, while you jump back-and-forth to get your dog shampoo, etc.
Why You Should Use a Dog Bathtub
- Added height
We’ve discussed the benefits of adding a little height to your tub already but, just to reiterate, having a bathtub at the right height for both you and your dog will be so much easier on your back. Not only that, but you’ll be able to reach all the areas that need cleaning, much better.
- Dedicated space
Having a dedicated space to wash your dog means you’re less likely to leave everything lying around, since everything you need will be to hand. Not only that, but you’ll find that you dog will learn that heading toward this space means bath time. This, in turn, will lead to your dog being better behaved regarding their bath, as they love a good dose of routine- essentially, you’ll be training your dog to know how to behave when it’s time for a scrub!
- Easier cleaning
Having a dog wash tub means that it is so much easier to clean your dog than it would be in a standard bath- or outside with the hose, whichever your current preference is! You’ll also be less likely to bring mud into the house, since you won’t be taking your dog through the house and into the bathroom. Simply pop your dog bath somewhere that is easily accessible from outside- or use a shed, garage or similar to house your new bath.
Tips for Bathing Your Dog
It can be a pretty daunting task if you’ve never washed your dog before- especially if you don’t know how they’ll react to this new experience. The good news is that, over time, they become more comfortable with the idea of bathing and even become trained as to how to behave, when having their bath. In order to get to that point a little sooner, follow these tips:
- Brush your dog before starting: This will help get rid of any tough knots or tangles. It’ll also stop lots of loose hair getting into the drain and plugging-up your new dog bath! Find out more about dog shedding brush and dematting tools for dogs here.
- Always make this a fun experience for your dog: Dog’s react to positive reinforcement, so bring along plenty of treats and maybe a toy that they’re particularly fond of. Check out our guides on the best dog treats and best dog toys.
- Always remain calm: Dogs take their cue from their humans, so a nervous human will make a nervous dog and vice versa. Even if your dog looks a little stressed, use a happy, calm voice and maintain your course of action. For more options, check out our detailed review of calming supplements for dogs.
- Get everything ready: Your dog will immediately take the opportunity to jump out of their wash tub if you leave their side to go and grab something you need, so get all of your lotions and potions together before starting.
- Use warm water: Dogs have very sensitive skin and water can easily become too hot for them. Test the water on the inside of your wrist before using it on your dog. It should be lukewarm, but not hot or cold.
- Don’t over-compensate by stroking your dog too much: To you and I, some gentle touch can be very reassuring, but to some dogs, being stroked is another way or winding them up and getting them ready to pounce. A gentle ear scratch will do much more good than rigorous stroking!
- If your dog is scared or panicking, stop: Unless they are covered head-to-toe in something that you need to get off them, immediately, you should always stop if your dog is very averse to something. Forcing them to continue will only reinforce the fact that they do not like the bath and will cause them to preemptively panic, next time. Try using lots of treats and gentle encouragement, throughout the procedure, so that they know they are getting spoiled, instead.
Our Top Pick
A lightweight, easy-to-assemble and affordable option, the Booster Bath is easily our top pick as one of the most user-friendly dog bathtubs on the market, today. The minor assembly is as easy as snapping the legs into position and it’s just as easy to break down and stow away, when not in use.
Despite it’s simple build and light construction, the Booster Bath is sturdy enough to handle most dogs and the three-point harness is a great way of ensuring your dog doesn’t slip and slide everywhere as you scrub them down. Not only this, but it can handle up to 125lbs of canine- more than enough for most household pets!
