How to Groom Bichons

Bichon Frise are small, fluffy dogs that are typically white or amber in color. The dogs have long, curly hair which can be a challenge to groom. However, if you use the right techniques and tools, you can complete a professional-style grooming right at home. Be firm with your dog during grooming so that it is aware that grooming time is not play time. This will also cut down on nicks on your dog's body.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog nail clippers
  • Ear powder
  • Whitening shampoo
  • Towels
  • Dog hair dryer
  • Steel comb
  • Rubber pin brush
  • Dog grooming clippers with and #4F blades
  • Scissors with ball tips
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clip the dog's nails first. Clip the nail to just above the pink quick section of the nail and do not cut the quick to avoid making the dog bleed.

    • 2

      Sprinkle ear powder into the dog's ears to reduce moisture and make ear hair easier to grab. Gently pluck the hairs a few at a time with your fingers, which will also help remove ear wax and dirt from inside the ear.

    • 3

      Brush the dog before giving it a bath. Brush the coat up and away from the dog's body for best results.

    • 4

      Bathe the dog with warm water and a whitening shampoo. Rub the shampoo into the dog's coat until a lather is formed, then rinse with water. Repeat the process if the coat is still dirty. Towel dry the dog, then comb out any tangles. Blow dry the dog's hair until completely dry.

    • 5

      Groom the stomach first. Use the blade to cut around the anal area and the stomach. Take care not to cut the dog's skin.

    • 6

      Cut the hair of the body with the #4F blade. Cut in the direction that the hair grows. Rough in a pattern across the entire body one time, then cut again a second time with the same sized blade to add shaping.

    • 7

      Cut down the legs with the same #4F blade. Divide the legs into four sides and cut down each side. Use the tip of the blade to gently scoop out any hair trapped between the foot pads.

    • 8

      Brush out the coat and clip any uneven hairs with scissors. Cut the hair around the face, neck and tail with scissors. Make straight cuts across the face for a puppy cut, or shape the hair along the contours of the face for a lamb cut.