Bichon Frise

• Use a whitening shampoo to brighten the Bichon’s coat without staining. Avoid conditioner for show grooming, but use a light moisturiser like Reviva coat for texture.

• Proper drying is crucial. Blow dry while brushing to create a bouncy, fluffy coat that springs back when touched.

• The Bichon’s topline should be perfectly flat, with no angling. Scissor from the rib cage to the loin, rounding the rib cage and setting the underline with only a slight tuck-up.

• The body should have a smooth transition from the rib cage to the rear, with the rear projection rounded and prominent.

• Use 8-inch straight scissors for the bulk of the bodywork, and curved scissors for areas like the head, feet, and rear projection. Scissoring should be done in layers, lifting the coat to ensure a smooth finish.

• Comb and cut repeatedly to ensure no stray hairs are missed, achieving the perfect round shape.

• The Bichon’s head should be round from every angle. Start with a U-shape above the eyes and round the head from the crest to the ears.

• Use curved scissors to form a neat V under the chin and a soft circle around the muzzle.

• Legs should be scissored into cylindrical shapes, often referred to as “elephant legs.” Ensure straight lines down the front and sides of the legs.

• Feet should be rounded with beveled edges, fitting seamlessly with the volume of the leg.

The tail should tie smoothly into the top line, with a clean, fan-shaped effect. The rear projection should be rounded to give the Bichon its characteristic full shape from behind.