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Papillon — Grooming Guide
How Often to Groom
- Brushing: 3–4 times per week
- Nail trimming: Every 2–3 weeks
- Ear cleaning: Weekly
- Bathing: Every 3–4 weeks
- Face cleaning: As needed
About the Papillon
Papillons have a long, silky, single coat that does not mat as easily as double‑coated breeds, but still requires regular brushing. Their signature butterfly ears have long fringe that must be kept clean and tangle‑free. They shed moderately and benefit from consistent grooming.
Before You Start
Your Papillon Bathing Package includes everything needed to bathe this breed safely, including a Shampoo Dilution Bottle and a Moisturizing Shampoo for silky coats. Your Grooming Package includes the tools needed for brushing, drying, and maintaining their fine coat and ear fringe.
Papillon Bathing Package
Shop the recommended bathing package here:
Moisturizing Bathing Package
- Moisturizing Shampoo
- Shampoo Dilution Bottle
- Shammy Towel
- Microfiber Towel
Papillon Grooming Package
Shop the recommended grooming package here:
Moisturizing Grooming Package
- Slicker Brush
- Metal Comb
- Dematting Comb (for ear fringe)
- Thinning Shears
- Conditioning Spray (trial size)
Papillon Care Package
Shop the full care package here:
Care Package
- Ear Cleaner
- Eye Wipes
- Paw Balm
- Nail Clippers
Additional Grooming Tools
- High‑Velocity Dryer (HV Dryer)
- Grooming Arm
- Extra Shammy Towel
- Extra Microfiber Towel
Step‑By‑Step Grooming Guide
1. Brush the Coat
Use a slicker brush to remove tangles from the body and legs.
Follow with a metal comb to check for hidden knots, especially in the ear fringe and tail.
2. Clean the Ears
Use ear cleaner and cotton to wipe the outer ear weekly.
Be gentle with the long ear fringe — it tangles easily.
3. Trim the Nails
Trim every 2–3 weeks.
Papillons often have fast‑growing nails that can affect posture if left long.
4. Bathe the Papillon
Bathe every 3–4 weeks using diluted moisturizing shampoo.
Rinse thoroughly — silky coats show residue easily.
5. Dry the Coat
Use a shammy towel, then a microfiber towel.
Finish with an HV dryer while brushing to prevent tangles.
6. Tidy the Feet & Feathering
Use thinning shears to neaten the feet, legs, and tail.
Avoid blunt cuts — Papillons look best with soft, natural lines.
7. Apply Leave‑In Conditioner
Work a small amount through the coat to reduce dryness, prevent tangles, and add shine.
Coat Notes
Papillons have a single coat that should never be shaved. Regular brushing keeps their ear fringe and tail plume looking full and silky.
Final Thoughts
Papillons are moderate‑maintenance but benefit greatly from consistent brushing and gentle grooming. A regular routine keeps their coat healthy, shiny, and mat‑free.
But these tools pay for themselves faster than you think.
A typical groom costs $70–$120. If you go every 4–6 weeks, the tools usually pay for themselves in 3–5 grooms.
But the money isn't even the biggest part.
- You know exactly how your dog is being treated.
- No contamination from other dogs.
- No chance of your dog being drugged without your knowledge.
- No rough handling behind closed doors.
- No stress from loud salons or unfamiliar animals.
- Your dog stays in the place they feel safest — home.
Your dog trusts you more than anyone. Grooming them yourself honors that trust.
FAQ
How often should a Papillon be groomed?
Brush 3–4 times per week; bathe every 3–4 weeks.
Should you shave a Papillon?
No. Their single coat should be brushed and trimmed, not shaved.
How do you prevent tangles?
Regular brushing, conditioning spray, and careful drying.
How often should you clean their ears?
Weekly.
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