High-Velocity Dryers for Dogs: What They Do and How to Choose

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

If you have ever spent an hour trying to dry a Husky, you will understand the appeal of a high-velocity dryer. These tools can transform bath day, but they need to be chosen and used wisely.

What they are

High-velocity, or force, dryers blow large volumes of air at high speed, often with little or no heat. The air pushes water off the coat rather than evaporating it, so drying is faster and gentler on the skin. They also blow out loose undercoat. See how to dry a dog after a bath.

Who benefits

• Double-coated dogs, for deshedding and thorough drying. See double-coat grooming
• Long and thick coats
• Curly coats, to prepare for brushing. See curly-coat grooming
• Large dogs that take a long time to dry
• Owners who bathe often

Short-coated dogs usually do not need one.

Features to look for

• Adjustable speed. Start low for nervous dogs.
• Heat control. Low heat or unheated air is best.
• Flexible hose and good nozzles. Allow control and reach.
• Noise level. Quieter models are kinder to dogs and ears.
• Weight and portability. Choose what you can handle.
• Durability and warranty.

Safety

• Keep the nozzle at a distance of at least 15 to 20 centimetres
• Never point it into the eyes, ears or nose
• Keep it moving
• Check the temperature of the air on your hand
• Avoid overly strong airflow on thin, sensitive skin
• Do not use heat on dogs prone to overheating

Introducing the dryer

Many dogs find the noise and air frightening. Turn it on in another room, reward calm behavior and gradually bring it closer. Aim first at the legs, then the body. Keep sessions short. See how to groom an anxious dog.

Using it for deshedding

After a bath, work through the coat in sections, blowing in the direction of hair growth. Loose undercoat will fly off, so work outdoors. Follow with a brush. See best deshedding tools for dogs.

Hearing protection

These dryers are loud. Consider pet-safe ear covers or cotton balls placed gently in the outer ear, and keep sessions brief.

Alternatives

Towels, microfiber cloths and gentle pet dryers work for many dogs. See how to bathe a dog at home.

Maintenance

Clean filters and hoses, and check for cracks. Store in a dry place.

A sample drying routine

1. Towel dry as much water as you can.
2. Start the dryer on low in the distance and reward your dog.
3. Work from the back toward the head, holding the nozzle at an angle to lift water off the coat.
4. Use medium speed on thick areas, and watch your dog's body language.
5. Finish with a brush and comb, and check the skin.

Warning signs

Stop if your dog trembles, pants heavily or tries to escape. If the skin turns red, the airflow may be too strong, so lower the speed or increase the distance. Never use hot air on a dog that overheats easily, such as a flat-faced breed.

Noise and your home

High-velocity dryers can be heard through walls, so use them away from sleeping family members and other pets. Consider using the dryer in a bathroom or garage with the door closed, and make sure the area is easy to clean, because loose hair will fly everywhere.

The takeaway

High-velocity dryers speed up drying and shedding control for thick coats, but use them safely, introduce them gradually and choose quieter models if you can.