If you share your life with a dog, you know just how dirty dogs can get. But, bathing your pup at home can be a back-breaking experience. Not only do you need to spend time bent over a tub, but then you also need to clean up the mess once you are done. Let’s not forget about the possible clogged pipes from all that fur. But now, you have another option to clean your dog. That is going to a self serve dog wash station in Arlington, Texas.
Most self serve dog wash stations provide you with just about everything you need to wash your pup, including an elevated tub, shampoo and a dryer.
But, there are only a few DIY dog wash places in Arlington, Texas, so knowing where to look for one can be difficult. On top of that, dog wash stations might be only one of the many services available at the business.
To make life easier for you we have done the research to find the best self-serve dog washing stations in Arlington, Texas.
Information in this post is subject to change without notice. While we strive to insure accuracy on Happyoodles.com, accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Also, the mentioning of a business in this post should not be viewed as an endorsement.
How much does a self-serve dog wash station cost in Arlington, Texas?
The cost to use a self-serve dog wash in the Arlington, Texas Area is between $10 and $30. While many businesses charge a flat rate some places charge by time or by weight. In addition to the self-serve pet wash station, many places will offer add-on services like nail trimming and ear cleaning. Usually, add-on services come with an extra fee.
An alternative to going out to wash your dog is created a Dog Wash Station in your home. To learn more check out our post on Best Dog Wash Station Ideas for your Home with 75+ Photos
How often should you wash your Dog?
How often you should wash your dog depends on their fur type and activities. Long haired dogs require regular grooming and should be bathed and have their hair cut every 4 to 8 weeks. Medium and short haired dogs can go longer, unless they spend a lot of time outside or are prone to getting dirty.
Selecting a Self-Service Dog Wash Station in Arlington, Texas
While going to the nearest do-it-yourself dog wash may be convenient, you might be better off checking out a few places, then deciding which one is best. Self washing stations are not all alike and will differ from one business to the next.
When checking out the businesses make sure to leave your dog at home. This way you won’t be distracted by them.
Also, don’t forget to ask questions. Not only will you learn about what you can expect at the dog wash, but even a short conversion with the people that work there will give you a feel for how the place is run.
Here are a few suggestions on what to look for and ask about.
- Are the tubs cleaned in between use?
- Are there walls or dividers between the tubs? For friendly dogs not having a divider may not be an issue. But if you have a reactive dog, having some time of visual barrier will help the process go smoother.
- Are there any gates to keep a dog from running out of the store?
- Look for safely features like non-slip mats or flooring in the tub and on the floor outside of the tub
- How do dogs enter the tub? Is there a ramp or steps to get into the bath? If so, will your dog be able to use them safely? Ramps are easier for large and older dogs to use.
- Are there tub restraints?
- How much time do you get in the tub for the initial fee? Can you add extra time if you need it?
- What supplies are included with the price? Typically, shampoos are included, but not all places provide towels. Some places will allow you to add-on specialty shampoos for a fee.
- Do they allow walk-ins or do you need to make an appointment in advance? Check to see if they charge late fees or no-show fees.
- Do they offer other services? Some stores may offer services like nail trimming and ear cleaning for an extra fee.
- If you have a large dog like a Bernedoodle or Golden Retriever make sure the tub is big enough for them to comfortable turn around.
- What form of payment do they take?
How to Use a Self Serve Dog Wash Station in Arlington, Texas
After you have chosen the best place for you, it’s time to bring your dog to get washed. Here are some tips based on our own experiences. They may or may not apply to you. Please use your best judgment when using a dog wash.
Before you go
- If you are going later in the day check to see when the last wash time is available. Many businesses close the self wash stations early to give employees time to clean the tubs.
- Make sure to gather all your supplies before you go. Items that might not be included are; a dog brush, face wipes, preferred shampoos and conditioners.
- Thoroughly brush your dog’s coat before going to the dog wash. This is an important step if you have a long or curly haired dog, like a Mini Bernedoodle.
- If you can, take your dog for a walk or a romp in the dog park before going to the store. This will allow them to burn off excess energy before the wash.
Once you are there
- If you scheduled an appointment, arrive on time. Otherwise you may not have enough time to thoroughly clean your dog.
- Check in with the staff and pay.
- Select the tub that fits your dog the best.
- Use the provided tub restraints. Tub restraints are there to keep your dog from jumping out and getting hurt.
- Never leave your dog unattended in the tub
- Check the water temperature to ensure it’s not too hot or too cold for your dog.
- Start washing your pup. Begin by rinsing them. Make sure you don’t get water in their ears, as it may cause an infection.
- Next, apply shampoo and lather. I prefer to start at the base of the neck and move down towards their backside. Don’t forget to wash underneath.
- If your dog has a thick coat, a rubber dog bath brush will help you get down to their skin
- When you are done washing make sure to rinse them thoroughly. Any shampoo that is left behind may irritate their skin.
- If you choose to use a conditioner this is the time to apply it. Rinse it out if necessary.
- Now it’s time to dry your pup. Squeeze out as much water from their fur as you can. This will shorten the drying time.
- Next, if towels are available, towel dry them before using the air blower.
- Use the air dryer to completely dry them.
- The loud sound of the air dryer might frighten some dogs. If the dryer has multiple settings start out with the lowest setting and them move up as they become comfortable.
Self Serve Dog Wash in Arlington, Texas
In case you are new to the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Arlington, Texas sits right between the two larger cities of Dallas and Fort Worth. While it’s a large city on its own, it’s the smallest of the three main cities that make up the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. If you live on the outskirts of Arlington, you may find that dog wash stations in either Dallas or Fort Worth are closer to you.
1. Dog Wash
Our first self-serve dog wash business is aptly named “Dog Wash”. This simple name tells you all your need to know about this business. Well, sort of. The Dog Wash is a DIY Dog Grooming Center located in Arlington, TX.
But, it actually offers more than just a place to wash your own dog. The Dog Wash also offers a place for DIY grooming, classes to teach you how to groom your own dog, and professional grooming serves.
Plus, they have a doggy day care, provide boarding services and offer various veterinarian services that include a DIY drug store and a well pet clinic.
One of the things I like about Dog Wash, is that they list most of their prices on their website so you know what to expect before you get there.
And, they are open 7 days a week. It’s no surprise they won the Consumer’s Choice award in Arlington, Texas.
You can find Dog Wash at:
Address: 5759 S.W. Green Oaks (at I-20) Arlington, TX 76017
Phone: (817) 561-1801
Dog Wash provides you with most everything you need including:
- Elevated tubs
- Grooming tables
- Shampoo
- Brushes
- Combs
- Scissors
- Nail clippers
- Ear and gland care
- Towels
- Dryers
- Dental spray
- And even perfume.
2. Scrub A Pup
Next on our list is Scrub A Pup located in North Arlington. Scrub A Pup is a relatively new self-serve dog wash in the area. They offer multiple tubs in different sizes and also rent grooming equipment for an extra fee. The cost of a DIY dog wash is based on size.
One of the things that makes this place stand out is the access to the tubs. The tubs stretch out from the wall giving you an almost 360-degree access to the tub.
Why this is important you may ask. Because instead of moving your dog around to get to both sides, you can simply walk around the tub.
In addition to the DIY tubs and grooming, you can also book an appointment for a professional groom or doggy day spa.
You can find them at
- Address: 2321 N Davis Dr, Arlington, TX 76012
- Phone: (817) 617-2824
- Email: [email protected]
Cost of the self serve dog wash includes:
- Elevated tub
- Shampoo (shampoo can be upgraded for a fee)
- Conditioner
- Use of scrubbers
- Towels
- Air dryers
3. Petco
Petco is a large pet supply company with locations throughout the nation. In addition to pet products, Petco also offers full-service grooming and self-serve pet washing stations in select stores.
The only Petco location in Arlington that has a self-serve pet wash is the Park Row store:
- Address: 2717 W Park Row Dr, Arlington, Texas, 76013
- Phone: (817) 795-1873
You can also find a dog wash station in their nearby Grand Prairie location.
- Address: 3166 N. Hwy 161, Suite 105, Grand Prairie, Texas, 75052
- Phone: (214) 677-4926
Petco provides you with just about everything you may need to wash and dry your dog including:
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Combs
- Brushes
- Towels
- Blow-dryers
- Apron
4. Pet Supermarket #247
Pet Supermarket is another larger retailer that offers self wash stations along with full service grooming. But, their self wash stations are only located in a select few stores. One of which is their Arlington, TX store.
- Address: 1112 North Fielder Road Arlington, TX 76012
- Phone: 817-460-1994
Pet Supermarket offers three options for their DIY dog wash stations.
- Standard wash – This is their basic level which includes shampoo, conditioner, blow-drier, towels, and a treat.
- Standard wash with a Blueberry Facial
- Skout’s Honor Premium Wash – includes Skout’s Honor premium products and a Face Furst Blueberry Facial
