How to Trim Papillon Culottes

Papillons are small-sized dogs weighing up to 12 pounds. They have long hair, generally darker on the ears and face, and white along the body. Papillons are said to have butterfly ears, which is what distinguishes the breed. The area around the back thighs of the dog is called the culotte. This area needs to be consistently trimmed in order to keep the hair clean. Their long hair makes it easy for waste to become stuck and matted. With the right tools, and patience, trimming the culotte can be something done at home.

Things You'll Need

  • Chair
  • Electric clippers
  • Table
  • Comb
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Instructions

    • 1

      Sit in a chair and place the papillon belly side up in your lap.

    • 2

      Using the clippers, trim the hair on either side of the dog's penis, if it is a male, and a small amount above it. This should form a triangle shape. While you can trim a female papillon in the same manner, it may be unnecessary unless the hair in that area is stained yellow from urine. A female will generally benefit more from trimming the hair on the inner rear thighs so that it does not become stained.

    • 3

      Hold the dog with one hand so that it is standing on its rear legs. Continue to trim the same area, letting the hair fall naturally.

    • 4

      Place the dog on a table so that it is standing.

    • 5

      Brush the hair below its tail and around the anal opening.

    • 6

      Tuck the dog under your arm and use the clippers to trim downward from the anus.

    • 7

      Trim upward above the base of the anus and an inch into the underside of the tail.