How to Bathe My Bichon Frise

A descendant of the water spaniel, the bichon frise dog breed dates back to the 13th century. This breed is known for its friendly attitude, short stature and white fluffy hair. Bichons generally do not shed and their hair grows quickly, so they require constant grooming in order to retain a clean appearance. An occasional bath can remove dirt and dander from a bichon's skin.

Things You'll Need

  • Brush
  • Mineral oil
  • Medicine dropper
  • Large bowl
  • Dog shampoo
  • Sponge
  • Towel
  • Blow dryer
  • Cotton balls
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Brush the dog thoroughly to remove any mats and loose hair. Wet mats can be nearly impossible to remove from a bichon frise due to their dense curly hair.

    • 2

      Fill a liquid medicine dropper with mineral oil. Squeeze one drop of mineral oil in each eye. The thin barrier of oil prevents eye irritation from the shampoo.

    • 3

      Fill the bathtub with warm water. The water should be about the same temperature as the dog.

    • 4

      Lower the dog slowly into the water. Scoop water up with a large bowl and gently pour it over the dog until he is thoroughly wet.

    • 5

      Massage the dog shampoo into its back, working down to the legs. Rub the shampoo in for five to 10 minutes. Wipe its face and head clean with a sponge moistened in the soapy water.

    • 6

      Drain the bath water. Fill a large bowl with warm water and gently pour it over the dog, starting at its head and slowly working toward the back. Fill the bowl again and repeat the process until all of the shampoo suds are removed.

    • 7

      Lay a towel on the floor and set the rinsed dog on it.

    • 8

      Plug in a blow dryer and set it to low heat and its lowest speed. Turn on the blow dryer, hold it 1 foot away from the dog and run it back and forth along its body until the hair is thoroughly dry. Brush its hair during the drying process to prevent mats.

    • 9

      Wipe the inside of the dog's ears dry with cotton swabs.