Dog Shower Station

⭐ Introduction

A dog shower station is a dedicated plumbing fixture designed to make washing your dog at home easier, cleaner, and less stressful. It’s especially useful if your pet tends to get muddy or wet outdoors, or if you want to avoid the mess and awkwardness of washing them in a regular bath.

You might need a dog shower station if you have a large or very active dog, lack a garden hose or outdoor tap, or simply want a convenient indoor or covered outdoor setup with the right height, spray settings, and drainage.

🔧 What the job involves

Installing a dog shower station involves fitting taps, a hose, and spray head designed to gently rinse your pet. The station might take the form of a recessed or freestanding unit, often with an easy-to-clean base and good drainage.

Your plumber will:

• Connect the station to your existing cold and/or hot water supply.
• Install suitable mixer taps or lever taps for easy temperature control.
• Fit a flexible hose with a handheld spray head adjustable for different spray patterns.
• Ensure a suitable drainage system is in place to avoid water pooling (this could be a dedicated drain or connection to existing waste plumbing).
• Sometimes install additional features such as height-adjustable fittings or anti-slip flooring.
• Test water pressures and temperatures for safe and efficient use.

The work needs to comply with relevant Building Regulations around plumbing and drainage (Part G – Sanitation, hot water safety and water efficiency). If hot water is connected, it must be safely controlled to prevent scalding.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

1. Enquiry and initial discussion: Contact a qualified plumber to discuss your needs and the suitability of your property for a dog shower station.
2. Site survey and detailed quote: The plumber visits to assess your water supply, drainage options, space, and any modifications needed. They then provide a written quote.
3. Agreement and scheduling: Once you approve the quote, a date for installation is arranged.
4. Preparation day: Clear the area where the dog shower will go, and ensure easy access to water supply points.
5. Installation day: The plumber installs the shower station, connects all plumbing, fits drainage, and tests the system.
6. Customer walkthrough: The plumber explains how to use and maintain the unit and answers any questions.
7. Documentation and final payment: You receive any operational manuals, warranties, and a job completion receipt.

💷 Main costs to expect

• Labour: £150–£300 depending on complexity and plumber’s experience/time required.
• Materials and parts: £100–£350 including taps, hose, shower head, and drainage components.
• Additional plumbing work: If your hot water system needs extending or any pipe rerouting, expect £100+ extra.
• Flooring/drainage modifications: £50–£200 if non-standard work is needed to install a drain or non-slip surfaces.
• Disposal: Small fee if old fittings or floor materials need removal (typically £20–£50).
• Certification/documentation: Usually included, but if specialist certificates are needed, this can add costs.

Example itemisation (approximate):

Item	Cost
Labour	£200
Mixer taps and spray kit	£150
Drain installation	£100
Waste disposal	£30
Total estimated	£480

📊 What affects the price

• Access to existing water supply and drains (ease of plumbing).
• Whether hot water is available or needs extending.
• Size and complexity of the unit (freestanding vs. wall-mounted).
• Compliance with Building Regulations, including safe hot water temperature control.
• Additional waterproofing or flooring work required.
• Location of your property (urban or rural, travel costs).
• Urgency or timeline for installation.
• Complexity of drainage installation and connection.
• Need for any electrical work (usually not required here, but sometimes for heated drying features).

⏱ How long does it take?

• Simple replacement or installation: 2–4 hours.
• Complex installations with drainage work or floor modifications: Up to a full day.
• Additional hot water plumbing work: Can extend to 1–2 days if extensive pipework is required.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

While it may be tempting to install a dog shower yourself, it involves plumbing connections, potential drainage modifications, and compliance with water safety regulations. Incorrect installation risks leaks, water damage, and appliance failure.

Hot water supply connections especially should be left to professional plumbers registered with relevant schemes to ensure safe temperature control and compliance with Part G of the Building Regulations.

DIY might be possible for very simple cold-water feed and a basic hose attachment with garden taps, but for anything more complex or permanent, hiring a qualified plumber is strongly recommended.

💰 Typical UK price range

Costs typically range from around £350 to £700+ VAT, depending on the factors above. Larger or luxury units, custom installations, or extensive plumbing work can push prices higher.

VAT is currently 20% on most plumbing services and materials in the UK.

✅ Handy tips before you start

• Plan location carefully: Choose a spot with easy access to water supplies and drainage.
• Clear the area fully: Make space in advance for the plumber to work safely.
• Check existing water system: Know if you have a combi boiler or cylinder system to discuss with your plumber how hot water will be supplied.
• Ask about warranties: Confirm what’s covered on fittings and workmanship.
• Keep paperwork safe: Retain quotes, receipts, and any certifications in case of future problems or home sale.
• Regular servicing: Discuss maintenance needs with your plumber to keep your dog shower station in good working order.
• Consider drainage capacity: If outdoor or garden locations, remember your drainage must handle the extra water to avoid flooding or puddles.

A dedicated dog shower station can make washing your pet much more pleasant and hygienic. Proper professional installation will ensure it works safely and lasts well.