Simple Tricks to Dry Your Dog and Save Money!

I know this seems a bit simplistic. How on earth can you save money when you dry your dog? But it’s true! I do it with my dog, Henry. Basically, properly drying your dog’s ears, privates, paws, and joints, can keep your pup healthy and reduce your vet bill. Not only that but you can also keep your pup smelling good. Did I pique your interest? Good! Today, we’re going to dig, dry off, and discover how you can save big when you dry your dog. 

A cute wet dog is covered in a towel drying after her dog parents learned about simple ways to dry your dog.
disclaimer note
Budget tip:

Some things you do for your dog are so simple. As a result, they may not cross your mind as being a budget-saver. But when you skip them, you can get hit with big bills. This is true when it comes to drying your wet dog. It can keep your pup healthy and your vet bills lower. It truly is a simple and easy win-win for your dog's health and your wallet!

When do I need to dry my dog?

Your pup may get wet many times and in ways. These include:

  • Rainy weather
  • Snowy days
  • Bath time
  • Swimming
  • Playing in the sprinklers

Do you know how to give your dog a bath and not kill your back? In this article, I share tips I got from my physical therapist.

Can I let my dog air dry?

That kind of depends. Most importantly you’ll always want to dry your dog’s ears to prevent infections. Additionally drying paws, legs, and privates is always a good idea. However, I would also recommend an overall towel dry so that the there aren’t skin problems. 

Can I use a hair dryer on my dog?

I’ve used a hair dryer on Henry to melt snow and dry him quickly after bath time. However, I never put it on high. Additionally, I never turn it on and start drying him. I always let Henry get used to the noise before I move the dryer over his fur. Even though Henry is used to grooming and dryers, this method seems like the kindest way to dry your pup. Moreover, I keep the hair dryer at least 12ā€ or more from his body. In addition to this, I am constantly moving the dryer. This method keeps him comfortable, avoids burns, and speeds along the drying process

Have you ever wished you could have your dog groomer come to you? In this article, I share everything you need to know about a mobile groomer.

Is there a quicker way to dry my wet dog?

There are a at least four ways that help in the drying process of your dog. These include:

1. A microfiber towel soaks up the water more easily, like this one

2. Microfiber towel robe, like this super cute shark dog robe.

3. Dog dryer, which can be pricey, but also may be a great investment, like this one.

How do I dry my dog after bath time?

Of course, your dog will be shaking to help disperse the water from his/her fur. That is always very helpful. In fact, I encourage Henry to shake as much as possible after his baths. 

After those initial shakes, I grab a clean dry towel (a microfiber towel is best) and start drying him very strategically. Here’s my process:

  • Head and ears
  • Body
  • Legs
  • Paw pads, including between toes
  • Privates

Although, if it’s a warm sunny day, I’ll take Henry to the porch and let him air dry a bit. 

However, if it’s a colder day or Henry starts shivering because he’s cold, I dry him with my hair dryer. Someday, I may get a dog blow dryer. But for now mine works and it’s definitely cheaper.

Honestly, the drying time for Henry is rather quick. While he has a thick coat, his fur is curly and seems to dry rather quickly. Of course, his ears take the longest to dry. 

Interestingly, Henry LOVES the warm air on his ears despite the fact they are healthy without any infections. Thus, I will spend more time drying his ears, which he enjoys and helps to get him completely dry and ready for his trim. 

TIP: Always brush your dog thoroughly before bath time to remove loose hair and dirt. Additionally, brushing your dog, like I do with Henry, helps to reduce mats.

Wish you could find a great dog groomer? In this article, I share some tips for finding the best groomer for you and your pup.

How do groomers dry dogs quickly?

Mostly groomers will use a microfiber drying towel and a dog dry. However, some groomers will use a dog drying bag. These bags can speed up the drying process. If you’ve ever sat under a dryer at the hair salon, then you’ll know what a dog drying bag does for your pup. 

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Henry a very wet dog swimming
Photo by Cathleen Allison/Nevada Momentum

Can I use a hair dryer or dog hair dryer with a dog drying bag?

Yes! These bags are rated for normal household hair dryers. All you do is connect the flexible hose to your dryer and let the bag (with your dog inside) get warm. However, never leave your dog unattended while in a drying bag. 

Learn about online vets and how to get questions answered for free!

How can I save money by properly drying my dog?

This is always the fun part of an article for me. While you may not think that ordinary things such as drying your dog can save money, it can! As an illustration, consider the possible expenses below. 

Possible IssueCost
Skin infections$118
Paw infections$110+
Ear infections$850
Skin irritation$300 – 2,500
Professional removal of fur mats$15+

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Summary of: Save Big When You Dry Your Dog!

I love the idea of doing simple things for my dog and getting a big payoff. This includes reducing my vet bill. So, every time Henry is wet, whether from rain, snow, or a bath, and I’m drying him, I know that I’m keeping him healthy and my wallet happy. 

YouTube video
MGM Singin’ In The Rain. Who doesn’t love Gene Kelly’s song and dance?

Thus, remember to always properly dry your dog for great healthy pup cost savings. That’s a good one, isn’t it? It almost makes you want to recreate Gene Kelley’s famous ā€œSinging In The Rainā€ song and danceā€ Or is that just me? 

A husky is swimming in a pool. His dog has learned how to properly dry your dog.

Did you know that simply drying your dog saves money? Will you dry your dog more carefully now?

About Terri Rodefer

Terri Rodefer is the founder of Tail Wag Wisdom, a blog focused on affordable pet care. She likes to say helping pet parents afford and love their animals even more, makes her tail wag.Ā As a lifelong lover of all animals with a background in economics, biology, and marketing, allows Terri to bring a unique spin to pet care.Ā 

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