[Sazbones]

I have a nearly 4 month old Bichon. I'm going to attempt my first bath for her. In looking on-line at videos re how to bathe a dog the instructions included using the "rake like with sharp narrow teeth" (can't recall what it's called) while she is wet. Does that sound right? She's wavy haired rather than "poodly."
Gracie's Mom

[lizziedog1]

You need to remove all mats before bathing. Otherwise you will end up with a very unhappy puppy.

[Sazbones]

So far she's not developing any mats. I did some research to learn more about Bichon's and learned there are 4 kinds. I think she is more of the "wavy" vs curly hair type. Wonder if it's true that I am to use the "slicker brush" on her immediately after the bath???

[calee15]

hi everyone.. i have a shitsu dog,,she is 1 yrs old already..i dont know how to take a bath my dog..please help me..)

[lizziedog1]

So far she's not developing any mats.

How did you arrive at this conclusion?

[Graco22]

Originally Posted by Sazbones

So far she's not developing any mats. I did some research to learn more about Bichon's and learned there are 4 kinds. I think she is more of the "wavy" vs curly hair type. Wonder if it's true that I am to use the "slicker brush" on her immediately after the bath???

You want to wash her just like you wash your own hair. Wet her entirely, and hold her nose lower than her head when you do face and head. Then shampoo and lather, then rinse. Rinsing is VERY important, as any shampoo residue left in the coat can cause itching and irritation. Towel dry her, then blow dry her while brushing her out. Then follow up with a metal greyhound comb, ALL the way down to the skin, over her ENTIRE body. Under ears, insides of legs, in between toes, armpits, underside of tail, etc.

And if you haven't already, get her professionally groomed ASAP. A 4 month old pup needs to start getting used to grooming NOW as she is up for a lifetime of it, and it will help in the long run if you start ASAP.

[Sazbones]

Well, I've brushed her very well at least twice a day and I don't see any. Is there something I'm missing?

So it's okay to take her to a groomer now? She has not had all of her shots and the vet said to keep her away from all dogs. Additionally, is she got her rabies shot she did not get a tag and the groomer wont take her without proof of all shots esp rabies. That's the only reason I've been holding off.

[Graco22]

Originally Posted by Sazbones

Well, I've brushed her very well at least twice a day and I don't see any. Is there something I'm missing?

So it's okay to take her to a groomer now? She has not had all of her shots and the vet said to keep her away from all dogs. Additionally, is she got her rabies shot she did not get a tag and the groomer wont take her without proof of all shots esp rabies. That's the only reason I've been holding off.

Thats great that you are being so consistant with brushing! Make sure you add combing to the routine. A brush will slide over knots and tangles, and matting will start down at the skin. A metal greyhound comb will get those, and keep matts from starting.

She is PLENTY old enough to go to the groomer..However, she should have her shots, for her protection. Generally, by 12 weeks, pups are done with their shots, but if yours isn't, get her finished up. I know alot of groomers require proof of Rabies, but there are groomers that do not..I don't..and on a 4 month old pup..thats kinda crazy IMO...I wouldn't vax a pup for rabies any earlier than 6 months myself..but that is way to late to start getting used to professional grooming. Keep up the good work with brushing and combing, and get her groomed as soon as you can. It will help her (and you) in the long run.

[Sazbones]

Thank you. She's due for her final "set" of shots on 11/20. I have the comb just didn't realize I needed to be using it now. I'll get on it! Unfortunately my household was one hit by unemployment so I have time...lots of time....to monitor her, housebreak her and care for her grooming needs.
I appreciate the fact that you took the time to respond and supply your input.
Best regards,
Gracie's Mom