How to Groom the Tail of a Bichon Frise

The bichon frise is a small, sturdy, bright and happy dog that is sometimes compared to a cotton ball or powder puff because of its fluffy white coat. It is distinguished also by its long, plumed tail, which it carries high to drape over its back. The bichon frise has a curled, textured outer coat over a silky undercoat. The double coat is long and prone to matting, so the breed requires daily grooming. Bichon frises are also sensitive to being handled, particularly around the tail, so special care should be taken with tail grooming.

Things You'll Need

  • Slicker brush
  • Pin brush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Brush your bichon frise daily, even as a small puppy. The coat won't begin matting until the dog is about a year old, but brushing the pup at an early age will get it accustomed to the grooming process.

    • 2

      Handle the tail with special care. The dog will be sensitive to having its hindquarters touched. Hold the tail gently and inspect it for knots and tangles.

    • 3

      Break apart any tangles or mats in the tail with your fingers. Gently separate tangles and don't attempt to brush through them. Pulling on knots will hurt the dog.

    • 4

      Brush the tail gently in the direction the hair grows. Use a soft slicker brush to begin grooming. If the puppy balks, show it the brush and let it sniff it.

    • 5

      Finish tail grooming with a pin brush. Brush in direction of hair growth with a pin brush to make the tail feather.