Papillon grooming: brushing, bathing and shedding
A practical grooming routine for the Papillon: coat care, baths, nails and ears.
With no undercoat, the coat is easier than it looks. Brush two or three times a week with a pin brush and finish with a comb, focusing on the soft hair behind the ears, the frill and the trousers on the back legs, where mats tend to start. A bath every three to six weeks keeps the coat shiny.
Nails grow quickly on light dogs and need trimming every two to three weeks, along with any dewclaws. Trim hair between the pads to help grip. Brush teeth daily if possible, as small mouths crowd teeth and allow plaque to build.
Papillon grooming in numbers
This is an illustrative schedule based on our editorial grooming score, not a breed-specific care protocol. Coat condition, skin problems and professional advice may call for a different routine.
| Task | Planning example |
|---|---|
| Brushing | Once a week |
| Bathing | Every 2 to 3 months, or when dirty |
| Shedding | Light |
| Nail trim | Every 3 to 4 weeks |
| Ear check | Weekly |
| Teeth | Daily brushing; introduce gently and ask your vet if the mouth seems painful |
Coat
A long, silky, flowing single coat with no undercoat, with generous fringes on the ears, a frill on the chest and a plumed tail.
Grooming needs
Shedding
Drooling