Bichon care Anyone considering a Bichon should carefully weigh the amount of time available for grooming, for the coat needs lots of attention. Bichon undercoat does not drop when the hair dies, so it must be combed from the coat to avoid hot spots and prevent mats and tangles. Even if the dog is to be professionally groomed every month, owners must be prepared to brush the pet at least twice each week. Puppies must be accustomed to brushing at an early age, a process that requires much patience and gentle handling. Bichon surroundings should be kept as clean as possible to keep dirt and chaff out of the coat and prevent flea infestations.
White dogs stay white by frequent bathing.
The coat must be completely free of snarls before bathing or the hair will compress into felt-like mats. Other than coat care, the Bichon is a relatively easy keeper. The breed is subject to some allergies that cause skin problems, bladder stones, ear infections, and a neurological problem that has been associated with vaccination protocols. Bladder stones are linked to excessive protein, magnesium, and phosphorus in the diet and with long confinement that forces the dog to hold his urine. Symptoms of bladder stones include frequent urination, bloody urine, straining to urinate, and loss of appetite.