How to Bathe a Bishon

The Bichon Frise descends from the water spaniel and dates from the 13th century. This powder puff of a dog is white, although sometimes sports a cream, buff, or apricot tint. Medium-sized -- on average about 11 inches at the shoulder -- the Bichon has a jaunty, plumed tail that curls over its back; drop ears and a muzzle resembling a cocker spaniel's. Its head, when show cut, looks like a giant marshmallow. The Bichon has a double coat, consisting of a silky layer under a textured one, that grows continuously and does not shed. This adaptation makes this dog ideal for allergy sufferers but high-maintenance because it must trimmed, groomed, and bathed regularly. Since the Bichon must undergo frequent bathing, use a dog shampoo for sensitive skin to prevent the dog from developing allergies.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog brush and comb
  • Treats
  • Large tub
  • Spray attachment or a large cup for dipping
  • Tearless dog shampoo for sensitive skin
  • Towels
  • Blow dryer (optional)
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Groom your Bichon to untangle its coat and relax it before bathing. Make the event positive by praising the dog for being still. When you finish, give the dog a treat.

    • 2

      Fill the tub with warm -- not hot -- water, and lay out the shampoo, cup, and towels within easy reach. While you are in the process, talk excitedly to your dog so that the experience takes on a positive light.

    • 3

      Use a treat and an excited tone of voice to call your dog into the bathing area. When the dog enters, give it a treat and praise it lavishly.

    • 4

      Lift the dog and place it into the tub, praising it as you do so. Use the sprayer attachment or the cup to thoroughly wet the dog's body, but not its head. Talk encouragingly and praise the dog for being good.

    • 5

      Dispense a dollop of shampoo onto the dog, then lather the area. Continue this process until you have covered the dog's body; then squeeze shampoo into your hands, rub to create lather, and apply to each leg and the tail. The legs will be submersed, but you should be able to clean them sufficiently using this method.

    • 6

      Rinse by spraying or pouring water gently over the dog's head, praising it as you do so. Avoid getting water in the dog's eyes and ears.

    • 7

      Apply a bead of shampoo to the dog's head and gently lave the area, including the muzzle.

    • 8

      Rinse the dog with the water as it drains from the tub, starting at the head. When the tub is empty, use the spray attachment to complete the rinse; or, if you use a cup, run warm water from the tap and pour it over the dog.

    • 9

      Grab a towel and vigorously rub the dog as dry as possible. Use a blow dryer to complete the process if desired.

    • 10

      Present the dog with a special treat, one it gets only rarely, and lavish it with praise. The idea is to make the bath a positive, not dreadful, experience.