If you have a Bolognese you will know that brushing and combing is a critical component of their overall grooming routine. So it’s important to know how to properly brush and comb their fur. This includes knowing exactly which tools should be used and in which order for a more appropriate technique in order to keep their coat healthy and clean.
Why Combing and Brushing Your Bolognese is Important
Regular brushing and combing of your doggy is essential for maintaining their coat’s cleanliness and health. If not properly brushed, it can lead to a host of problems, including: matting, skin irritation, and even infection.
Regular brushing and combing prevent mats from forming, which can cause pain and discomfort to your Bolognese. It also prevents dirt and debris from accumulating in their fur, keeping them fresh and clean. Regular brushing and combing your Bolognese stimulates blood flow to their skin, promoting healthy hair growth. It also distributes natural oils throughout their coat, keeping it shiny and well moisturized. Regular grooming also provides an opportunity to check for any skin irritations, bumps, or lumps that may require veterinary attention. By catching these issues early, you can ensure that your bolo receives prompt and appropriate care by a specialist if needed.
Another important aspect that may be overlooked, is that regular grooming also provides an opportunity for bonding between your doggo and you. Take that time to cultivate a trusting and special bond between the two of you. This will not only bring you closer to your pooch, but allow them to complete the necessary grooming ritual in a safe and loving way. This will create positive lasting effects, especially when they then transition to regular veterinary appointments.
Brushing also helps to remove dirt, debris, and loose hair, which can reduce shedding. This also helps to reduce the amount of loose hair and pet dander within your home; thus reducing the increased risk of exposure for allergy sufferers.
It is recommended to brush your doggie at least every other day, if not more.
What You’ll Need
Before you start brushing and combing your bolognese, make sure you have the following:
- Comb Types
- 2-in-1 comb
- stainless steel wide-tooth comb
- Brush Types
- A pin brush
- Other Tools
- A dog grooming table or high surface
- A detangling spray
- A treat to reward your bolognese for good behavior
Preparing to Comb and Brush Your Bolognese
It is important to start the grooming process as early as possible. For pupper up to 4 months of age, you should brush several days a week with a metal pin brush in order to begin to establish a grooming routine. Always make sure to remain patient and gentle when completing. Place the puppy on an elevated surface with a non-slip mat such as a dog grooming table in order to complete the grooming routine (brushing, combing, teeth, and nails). Get them comfortable lying on their side and standing while on the higher surface. Just make sure you grab all the necessary equipment required prior to placing your pup up high, and if you have forgotten something then lower them back down to the floor so as you’re making sure not to leave them on a high surface unattended.
Bringing them to a higher work surface will not only signal to your pup that ‘now it’s time for the grooming routine,’ but will also save your back. It will allow you to have proper body mechanics, which will become especially important as they become bigger and stronger. Also, please make sure to incorporate praise and treats prior to and after completing the grooming routine. This will not only help solidify the bonding experience, but will signal to your pupper that the grooming process is a safe and loving space for them.
It is important to note that you will begin with a comb and then transition to a brush.
How to Comb Your Bolognese
- You should start by removing all mats, dirt, debris, and loose hair from their coat. The bichon
has a double-coat that is prone to matting, since the undercoat will shed and get trapped by the
topcoat. Attempt to use your fingers firstly, by gently pulling apart small sections at a time and
working your way from outermost mat sections and moving closer to the skin. Pinch the tangle
between your fingers so as not to pull on the hair. You should use a detangling spray in order to
ease the tangles out more freely. If you would like, you can use your comb, using the end tooth
to try to work the tangle out delicately and in small sections at a time. - Start with the face and ears. Use the 2-in-1 comb to comb in the direction of the hair growth.
Brush section by section, starting at the tips and working your way closer to the roots with each
section. Be sure to be gentle around the sensitive areas of the eyes and mouth. Make sure to
pay special attention to the base of ears where they meet the body, as this area is prone to
matting. - Then move to the belly, sides, and legs. Your dog may be more comfortable laying on their
sides as you complete these sections. Using the comb, comb in small sections at a time, making
sure to comb in the direction of hair growth. And continue to start at the ends and work your way
closer to the skin. Make sure to pay extra attention to the intersection where the legs meet the
body, as this area is prone to matting. - Now move to the back and tail. Here you can stand your dog up if they are more
comfortable, as it will be easier on you if they are in this position. Continue to move in small
sections, combing in the direction of hair growth.
How to Brush Your Bolognese
Complete the same process now using the pin brush, still using the same technique as the
2-in-1 comb.
- Start with the face and ears. Use the pin brush to brush in the direction of the hair growth.
Brush section by section, starting at the tips and working your way closer to the roots with each
section. Be sure to be gentle around the sensitive areas of the eyes and mouth. Make sure to
pay special attention to the base of ears where they meet the body, as this area is prone to
matting. - Then move to the belly, sides, and legs. Brush in small sections at a time, making sure to
brush in the direction of hair growth. Continue to start at the ends and work your way closer to
the skin. Make sure to pay extra attention to the intersection where the legs meet the body, as
this area is prone to matting. - Now move to the back and tail. Continue to move in small sections, combing in the direction
of hair growth.
How to Comb Your Bolognese
After brushing is complete, you will then comb once more. You will be combing in the same general pattern, but this time you will be combing opposite the direction of hair growth. This will create a finishing touch and give the signature ‘Bolognese’ look.
- Now you will be using a wide-tooth stainless steel comb. Start with the face and ears. When
combing the head, comb towards the nose. - Next move to the belly, sides, and legs. You will want to make sure you are brushing up and
out. - Now move to the back and tail. You will want to comb up towards the spine. Continue to
brush up and out.
You’ll want to complete brushing your Bolognese about every other day. You may need to comb and brush more during shedding season (usually spring and fall), as this will increase the likelihood of tangles and matting.
Tips for Maintaining Your Bolognese’s Coat
To keep your doggo’s coat healthy, you should brush and comb it regularly. Here are some tips:
- Brush their entire coat at least a couple of times a week.
- Use a pin brush or *slicker brush to remove tangles and mats. (Slicker brushes should
- only be used by professionals, because if used incorrectly, it will be very painful)
- Use a comb to remove loose hair and debris.
- Be gentle and avoid pulling or tugging on the coat.
- Pay special attention to areas that are prone to tangles, such as behind the ears and
- under the legs.
- If you encounter a mat, use your fingers first. A detangling spray and/or dematting tool or
- scissors to carefully remove it are also options.
- After brushing, use a damp cloth to wipe your doggie’s coat and remove any remaining
- debris.
- Always give a treat and praise for good behavior.
By following these tips, you can maintain your Bolognese’s coat and keep it looking healthy and shiny.
As long as you are able to maintain regular brushing, shedding will be minimal.