Your nose is the best judge of bathtime, unless your puppy just dove into a mud puddle. In that case, your eyes will do.
The point is, don't bathe the your puppy too much. Overbathing can remove oils and dry out your puppy's coat.

• A sink or a washtub works just fine for puppies and small dogs. Big dogs need the bathtub. If it's warm outside, use a child's wading pool or a hose.
• Before starting, gather all the things you need. There's nothing worse than turning your back on a wet dog. Dog shampoo, brush, comb and several towels will do.
• Put a rubber mat in the bottom of your tub. Your puppy will feel more secure.
• Don't use people shampoo. It doesn't have the right pH balance. Ask your vet what shampoo works best for your dog.
• In the winter, keep your puppy inside until dry. A blow dryer speeds things along.
• Careful with the suds. The soap bothers your puppy's eyes.
• Careful with the rinse, too. You don't want to get any water in his ears.