How Often Should You Bathe Your Bichon?

Bichons are fluffy white dogs that are fairly small in stature. Averaging 11 to 12 inches when full grown, they typically weigh between 7 and 12 lbs. as adults. The full name for a bichon is bichon frise. They are friendly, people-loving dogs. Bichons require frequent exercise but live well in confined spaces; making them excellent city dwellers. This breed may be professionally groomed or bathed at home. The frequency with which they are bathed depends on a couple of factors.

  1. Pet or Show Dog

    • If the bichon in question is a show dog, he will require bathing more frequently than if the dog is simply a family pet. Since dog shows set standards of both fur and skin conditions, these must meet the very highest standards available. Family pets must be kept clean, but there are certain aspects of the bathing process that may be overlooked when the dog isn't shown, such as some implementations of conditioner and various skin therapies.

    Home or Professional

    • Since professional groomers have access to the highest-quality equipment and products, it is likely that a professional grooming results in better bathing. Therefore most professionally groomed bichons require bathing every five to six weeks. While bathing your bichon at home is certainly getting the dog clean, it may not measure up to a professional groomer's standards, and therefore should be repeated every three to four weeks.

    Maintenance

    • Between baths you can take some steps to ensure that your bichon is a clean and comfortable as possible. You can help maintain the bichon coat by brushing the fur and wiping the entire coat down with a soft, damp cloth. Both steps help the dog stay fresh and clean until it is time for her actual bath.