MAINTENANCE:<\/strong> The coat does not require trimming in the true sense, when it comes to Bolognese. But needs care and attention, with regular combing to prevent tangles from forming. These dogs are shown in their natural state, but sometimes pet dogs are trimmed (scissored), as with the family pet Bichon Frise and Poodle. They are bathed and conditioned frequently, and sometimes put into a “lamb”-type clip. Pet dogs are often trimmed with a snap-on comb for an allover uniform length.<\/p>\n
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Equipment needed:<\/strong> Wide-toothed comb.<\/p>\n
Breed tip:<\/strong> Initial thorough combing will save you a lot of hard work.<\/p>\n
The golden rule when grooming the Bolognese is never to bathe the dog without first giving the coat a thorough combing through, otherwise the coat will become very matted.<\/p>\n
The dog is laid flat on its side on a table or towel spread across a lap. A long-toothed wide-spaced comb is worked through the coat, a small section at a time, and care must be taken to groom right down to the skin. The legs, feet, face and ears are groomed with a smaller shorter-toothed comb, as the hair here is shorter and of a finer texture.<\/p>\n
After thoroughly combing with a wide comb, follow with a finer comb to ensure all knots are removed. Done gently, dog and owner will enjoy the experience. The dog is now ready for bathing.<\/p>\n
Using a sprayer to ensure an even distribution of water, wet the dog thoroughly with warm water, and apply a shampoo especially designed for white dogs. To prevent unnecessary matting, try to keep the hand motion straight rather than rubbing in circles. Lather well, smoothing the shampoo through the coat. Rinse thoroughly and apply a conditioner to help stop the coat from knotting. After rinsing, towel-dry.<\/p>\n
The unique coat will now fall into very loose curls (rather like a shaggy perm). It can be left to dry naturally in a warm room or it can be lightly blow-dried using a hair-dryer with a diffuser.<\/p>\n
The coat needs to be combed twice a week. Some tangles will require extra attention \u2014 a touch of hair-dressing cream can help to combat the static that causes this.<\/p>\n
A puppy coat needs more attention as it is of a finer texture and changes gradually to an adult coat by the time the dog is about 18 months old. The coat does not molt, but a little hair does come out each time you comb.
\nNo trimming is required for the show ring, but hair can be removed between the pads. Pet dogs are frequently cut down shorter.<\/p>\n
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Watch this video to learn how to trim your Bolognese’ coat using scissors and clippers.<\/p>\n