The Coat: Soft. Curly. Constantly Growing.
One of the most recognizable things about a Bichon Frise is the coat. Soft. Cloud-like.
Designed to create that round fluffy appearance the breed is known for.
But for an owner, that coat is not low-maintenance.
It requires constant upkeep to stay healthy and comfortable.
What makes it different?
From the outside, the coat may still look fluffy and brushed.
Underneath, tight matting may already be developing close to the skin.
And because Bichons are small white dogs with soft coats, many owners
underestimate how quickly coat problems develop.
The important thing to understand: you are not simply maintaining a cute haircut.
You are maintaining a continuously growing coat that requires regular
brushing and grooming to stay comfortable.
Important mistake to avoid:
Waiting too long between grooming appointments often leads to severe matting
underneath the coat. This breed needs regular maintenance.
Not occasional full shave-downs, once the coat becomes difficult to manage.
Designed to create that round fluffy appearance the breed is known for.
But for an owner, that coat is not low-maintenance.
It requires constant upkeep to stay healthy and comfortable.
What makes it different?
- Soft curly coat that continuously grows
- Hair that traps loose fur inside instead of shedding normally
- Coat texture that mats very easily
- Dense coat that hides tangles close to the skin
From the outside, the coat may still look fluffy and brushed.
Underneath, tight matting may already be developing close to the skin.
And because Bichons are small white dogs with soft coats, many owners
underestimate how quickly coat problems develop.
The important thing to understand: you are not simply maintaining a cute haircut.
You are maintaining a continuously growing coat that requires regular
brushing and grooming to stay comfortable.
Important mistake to avoid:
Waiting too long between grooming appointments often leads to severe matting
underneath the coat. This breed needs regular maintenance.
Not occasional full shave-downs, once the coat becomes difficult to manage.
Priсes
Tidy-up (Face,Feet and Tail refreshment)
1h 15mins - Starting $80
Service aimed at refreshing your pet's appearance between Full Grooms.
Includes: Bath with specialty shampoo, blow-dry, brush-out, face trimming the eye corners/brow area, rounding of feet, and tail trim, nails grinding, pads and sanitation clean-up.
Full Groom
1h 30mins - $95+
This type of haircut is perfect for busy owners, requiring minimal maintenance between grooming visits. We clip the entire body and legs using a selected blade length (ranging from 1/4" to 1"), while maintaining a breed-profile haircut for the head and tail.
Includes: Bath with specialty shampoo, blow-dry, brush-out, full haircut, nail grinding, ear cleaning.
Full groom with scissors (long legs, long body, asian fusion, show-cut)
2h - $125+
IMPORTANT! This haircut cannot be done on dogs that have never had this type of grooming before. The dog must be trained to stand still on the table for an extended period.
For this service, you can browse photos from our gallery or find reference images online, then discuss with the groomer whether your pet’s coat can achieve the desired result.
Pricing and grooming time vary for each pet and are determined individually.
1h 15mins - Starting $80
Service aimed at refreshing your pet's appearance between Full Grooms.
Includes: Bath with specialty shampoo, blow-dry, brush-out, face trimming the eye corners/brow area, rounding of feet, and tail trim, nails grinding, pads and sanitation clean-up.
Full Groom
1h 30mins - $95+
This type of haircut is perfect for busy owners, requiring minimal maintenance between grooming visits. We clip the entire body and legs using a selected blade length (ranging from 1/4" to 1"), while maintaining a breed-profile haircut for the head and tail.
Includes: Bath with specialty shampoo, blow-dry, brush-out, full haircut, nail grinding, ear cleaning.
Full groom with scissors (long legs, long body, asian fusion, show-cut)
2h - $125+
IMPORTANT! This haircut cannot be done on dogs that have never had this type of grooming before. The dog must be trained to stand still on the table for an extended period.
For this service, you can browse photos from our gallery or find reference images online, then discuss with the groomer whether your pet’s coat can achieve the desired result.
Pricing and grooming time vary for each pet and are determined individually.
Tidy-up (Face,Feet and Tail refreshment)
1h 30mins - Starting $95
Service aimed at refreshing your pet's appearance between Full Grooms.
Includes: Bath with specialty shampoo, blow-dry, brush-out, face trimming the eye corners/brow area, rounding of feet, and tail trim, nails grinding, pads and sanitation clean-up.
Full Groom
2h - $120+
This type of haircut is perfect for busy owners, requiring minimal maintenance between grooming visits. We clip the entire body and legs using a selected blade length (ranging from 1/4" to 1"), while maintaining a breed-profile haircut for the head and tail.
Includes: Bath with specialty shampoo, blow-dry, brush-out, full haircut, nail grinding, ear cleaning.
Full groom with scissors (long legs, long body, asian fusion, show-cut)
2h 30mins - $150+
IMPORTANT! This haircut cannot be done on dogs that have never had this type of grooming before. The dog must be trained to stand still on the table for an extended period.
For this service, you can browse photos from our gallery or find reference images online, then discuss with the groomer whether your pet’s coat can achieve the desired result.
Pricing and grooming time vary for each pet and are determined individually.
1h 30mins - Starting $95
Service aimed at refreshing your pet's appearance between Full Grooms.
Includes: Bath with specialty shampoo, blow-dry, brush-out, face trimming the eye corners/brow area, rounding of feet, and tail trim, nails grinding, pads and sanitation clean-up.
Full Groom
2h - $120+
This type of haircut is perfect for busy owners, requiring minimal maintenance between grooming visits. We clip the entire body and legs using a selected blade length (ranging from 1/4" to 1"), while maintaining a breed-profile haircut for the head and tail.
Includes: Bath with specialty shampoo, blow-dry, brush-out, full haircut, nail grinding, ear cleaning.
Full groom with scissors (long legs, long body, asian fusion, show-cut)
2h 30mins - $150+
IMPORTANT! This haircut cannot be done on dogs that have never had this type of grooming before. The dog must be trained to stand still on the table for an extended period.
For this service, you can browse photos from our gallery or find reference images online, then discuss with the groomer whether your pet’s coat can achieve the desired result.
Pricing and grooming time vary for each pet and are determined individually.
We offer same-day nail appointments, with pricing based solely on your dog's behavior—not their weight or breed.
Dogs tolerant to the grinder – $20
"Tasmanian Devils" requiring three people to manage – Up to $40
Dogs tolerant to the grinder – $20
"Tasmanian Devils" requiring three people to manage – Up to $40
Flea&Tick Treatment
$20+
IMPORTANT! If you notice any signs of flea activity, please inform us in advance. We will immediately take your dog to the bathing area to prevent the spread of infestation. If fleas are discovered during grooming, a flea treatment will be automatically added to your service package.
Skin Issue Treatment
$20+
CO2 hydrotherapy was developed for medical treatment for physical rehabilitation purposes, it's 100% natural and safe to use. CO2 hydrotherapy provides not only an ultra cleansing result, but to promote circulatory system and self-healing process.
Effective with: hotspots, bug bites, dandruff, flaky skin, hairloss, itchiness and enhance immune system.
Medicated shampoo
$20+
Medicated shampoo is recommended for dogs with hot spots, itching, or skin irritation caused by bacteria or fungal infections.
We can perform a visual skin assessment and, in many cases, suggest a suitable shampoo based on whether the irritation appears allergy-related, bacterial, or fungal. However, we always recommend veterinary testing for an accurate diagnosis.
De-matting
are included in grooming service. Every following minute + $1,5
IMPORTANT! We won't turn you over because your dog is matted. Please tell us the real coat condition when you book an appointment. If we have a tight schedule and you won't tell us that we need to add additional time, we might reschedule your appointment for the later time or day - just because we can't squeeze so much time. We also can suggest you to step by with your dog and have a complimentary coat assessment - in this case you will receive all the necessary recommendation for making this process easier for both parties.
Anal Gland Expression
$7
IMPORTANT! Anal gland expression is an external procedure performed by a groomer and may not be appropriate for every dog. If your dog has ongoing gland issues, swelling, discomfort, infection, or requires frequent gland expression, we strongly recommend consulting your veterinarian. Please let us know when booking if your dog has a history of gland problems so we can allocate enough time and determine whether this service is appropriate for your pet.
Teeth Brushing
$10
IMPORTANT! Teeth brushing helps reduce plaque buildup and freshen breath, but it is not a substitute for professional veterinary dental cleaning. Results may vary depending on your pet's age, dental health, and comfort level with the process. If your pet has heavy tartar buildup, red or inflamed gums, loose teeth, or signs of dental disease, we recommend scheduling a dental evaluation with your veterinarian.
$20+
IMPORTANT! If you notice any signs of flea activity, please inform us in advance. We will immediately take your dog to the bathing area to prevent the spread of infestation. If fleas are discovered during grooming, a flea treatment will be automatically added to your service package.
Skin Issue Treatment
$20+
CO2 hydrotherapy was developed for medical treatment for physical rehabilitation purposes, it's 100% natural and safe to use. CO2 hydrotherapy provides not only an ultra cleansing result, but to promote circulatory system and self-healing process.
Effective with: hotspots, bug bites, dandruff, flaky skin, hairloss, itchiness and enhance immune system.
Medicated shampoo
$20+
Medicated shampoo is recommended for dogs with hot spots, itching, or skin irritation caused by bacteria or fungal infections.
We can perform a visual skin assessment and, in many cases, suggest a suitable shampoo based on whether the irritation appears allergy-related, bacterial, or fungal. However, we always recommend veterinary testing for an accurate diagnosis.
De-matting
are included in grooming service. Every following minute + $1,5
IMPORTANT! We won't turn you over because your dog is matted. Please tell us the real coat condition when you book an appointment. If we have a tight schedule and you won't tell us that we need to add additional time, we might reschedule your appointment for the later time or day - just because we can't squeeze so much time. We also can suggest you to step by with your dog and have a complimentary coat assessment - in this case you will receive all the necessary recommendation for making this process easier for both parties.
Anal Gland Expression
$7
IMPORTANT! Anal gland expression is an external procedure performed by a groomer and may not be appropriate for every dog. If your dog has ongoing gland issues, swelling, discomfort, infection, or requires frequent gland expression, we strongly recommend consulting your veterinarian. Please let us know when booking if your dog has a history of gland problems so we can allocate enough time and determine whether this service is appropriate for your pet.
Teeth Brushing
$10
IMPORTANT! Teeth brushing helps reduce plaque buildup and freshen breath, but it is not a substitute for professional veterinary dental cleaning. Results may vary depending on your pet's age, dental health, and comfort level with the process. If your pet has heavy tartar buildup, red or inflamed gums, loose teeth, or signs of dental disease, we recommend scheduling a dental evaluation with your veterinarian.
Grooming Needs:
A Routine. Not Just Haircuts
Bichon coats require regular maintenance.
Not brushing only when tangles appear. A system.
Their soft curly coat traps loose hair inside, which means small
tangles tighten quickly once friction and moisture build together.
Weekly essentials:
hidden matting underneath slowly tightens closer to the skin.
And once matting starts, it spreads surprisingly fast.
Bichons also commonly have sensitive skin beneath their dense coats.
By the time visible irritation appears, the issue underneath may already be more advanced than expected.
Not brushing only when tangles appear. A system.
Their soft curly coat traps loose hair inside, which means small
tangles tighten quickly once friction and moisture build together.
Weekly essentials:
- Brush several times per week
- Focus on friction areas and dense coat sections
- Keep a consistent grooming schedule
- Fully dry the coat after baths or walks in wet weather
hidden matting underneath slowly tightens closer to the skin.
And once matting starts, it spreads surprisingly fast.
Bichons also commonly have sensitive skin beneath their dense coats.
By the time visible irritation appears, the issue underneath may already be more advanced than expected.
One Detail Many Owners Miss
Bichons often develop matting fastest behind the ears, under the collar, under the arms,
and around the legs. Those areas experience constant friction throughout the day.
And because the outer coat stays fluffy, tight tangles underneath can easily go unnoticed.
Tear staining matters too. Many Bichons develop staining around the eyes,
especially if the face stays damp regularly.
Keeping the face clean and dry helps reduce irritation and keeps the coat healthier between appointments.
and around the legs. Those areas experience constant friction throughout the day.
And because the outer coat stays fluffy, tight tangles underneath can easily go unnoticed.
Tear staining matters too. Many Bichons develop staining around the eyes,
especially if the face stays damp regularly.
Keeping the face clean and dry helps reduce irritation and keeps the coat healthier between appointments.
What our Client Say
Start Early
Bichons are affectionate, social dogs.
But they also require lifelong grooming from a very young age.
If grooming starts late, many Bichons become sensitive to brushing, dryers,
face handling, and nail trims surprisingly quickly.
That’s why early exposure matters.
Puppies should learn early that brushing, baths, dryers, nail trims, and handling
are simply part of normal life.
Our recommendation:
handling while we observe how they react.
From there, we decide together:
usually creates much harder appointments later.
A simple puppy bath introduction ($60–80) often prevents years of stressful grooming experiences.
With Bichons, early routine matters more than many owners realize.
But they also require lifelong grooming from a very young age.
If grooming starts late, many Bichons become sensitive to brushing, dryers,
face handling, and nail trims surprisingly quickly.
That’s why early exposure matters.
Puppies should learn early that brushing, baths, dryers, nail trims, and handling
are simply part of normal life.
Our recommendation:
- Bring your puppy in around 4 months old, once vaccinations are complete.
- Not for a dramatic haircut.
- Not for a makeover.
- Just for a calm introduction.
- Stay with your puppy.
- Bring treats.
handling while we observe how they react.
From there, we decide together:
- If your puppy would benefit from short training-style grooming visits
- Or if they’re relaxed enough to return later for routine maintenance
usually creates much harder appointments later.
A simple puppy bath introduction ($60–80) often prevents years of stressful grooming experiences.
With Bichons, early routine matters more than many owners realize.
Common Owner Mistakes
Even loving Bichon owners sometimes underestimate coat maintenance.
“The coat feels soft, so it’s probably fine.”
In reality, soft curly coats often hide matting surprisingly well.
Brushing only the surface
The coat may still look fluffy while tight matting underneath becomes packed close to the skin.
Waiting too long between grooming appointments
Because the coat continuously grows, tangles and matting develop much faster
than many owners expect.
Bathing without fully drying afterward
Moisture trapped inside curly coats tightens tangles and increases matting quickly if the
coat is not dried properly.
Keeping the coat too long without daily maintenance
Long fluffy styles require much more brushing and upkeep between appointments.
Prevention is always easier than correction.
“The coat feels soft, so it’s probably fine.”
In reality, soft curly coats often hide matting surprisingly well.
Brushing only the surface
The coat may still look fluffy while tight matting underneath becomes packed close to the skin.
Waiting too long between grooming appointments
Because the coat continuously grows, tangles and matting develop much faster
than many owners expect.
Bathing without fully drying afterward
Moisture trapped inside curly coats tightens tangles and increases matting quickly if the
coat is not dried properly.
Keeping the coat too long without daily maintenance
Long fluffy styles require much more brushing and upkeep between appointments.
Prevention is always easier than correction.
Why Professional Grooming Matters
for Bichon
Working with a Bichon coat requires more than a quick bath and haircut.
In a professional grooming environment, we can:
A damp curly coat creates the perfect environment for odor, irritation, and bacterial
growth beneath the fur. That’s why we never send a damp Bichon home.
Service time may also vary depending on:
Two Bichons may require completely different appointment times depending on coat
condition and home maintenance between visits. That’s completely normal.
Professional grooming is not just about appearance.
After a proper grooming session, the coat feels lighter, softer, cleaner, and significantly
easier to maintain between appointments.
In a professional grooming environment, we can:
- manage tangles before they become severe matting
- fully dry the dense curly coat properly
- maintain coat shape and balance
- monitor skin condition beneath dense coat areas
A damp curly coat creates the perfect environment for odor, irritation, and bacterial
growth beneath the fur. That’s why we never send a damp Bichon home.
Service time may also vary depending on:
- coat length
- matting
- maintenance history
- coat density
- grooming tolerance
Two Bichons may require completely different appointment times depending on coat
condition and home maintenance between visits. That’s completely normal.
Professional grooming is not just about appearance.
After a proper grooming session, the coat feels lighter, softer, cleaner, and significantly
easier to maintain between appointments.
Breed Related FAQs
The base grooming time depends on your dog’s size and is listed in our pricing section.
For most dogs, the process takes between 1.5 to 3 hours. Larger breeds or heavy coats may take longer.
If the coat is in poor condition or the dog is not cooperative, the process may take longer. In such cases, additional time is charged at $1 per minute.
We also never rush critical parts of the service. Proper drying is essential - we cannot send a dog home with a damp coat, as this can lead to skin issues.
Because of this, the total appointment time may vary.
For most dogs, the process takes between 1.5 to 3 hours. Larger breeds or heavy coats may take longer.
If the coat is in poor condition or the dog is not cooperative, the process may take longer. In such cases, additional time is charged at $1 per minute.
We also never rush critical parts of the service. Proper drying is essential - we cannot send a dog home with a damp coat, as this can lead to skin issues.
Because of this, the total appointment time may vary.
That depends on how severe the matting is and on the type of coat.
If the mat can be safely separated from the skin, we will gently brush it out using professional tools and detangling products.
However, when mats are tight to the skin, brushing can be painful and may damage the skin. In those cases, shaving is the safest and most humane option.
Severe matting is not just cosmetic. It can trap moisture, restrict movement, and lead to irritation or even circulation issues.
For double-coated breeds, we take a different approach.
We do not shave double-coated dogs for aesthetic reasons, as shaving
can damage coat structure and affect natural thermoregulation.
Whenever possible, we focus on deshedding and preserving the coat.
However, if the coat is severely impacted, matted close to the skin, or already damaged by previous shaving, we assess the situation individually
and choose the safest option for the dog.
For poodles, doodles, and similar coat types, timing is critical. During coat transition, matting can form very close to the skin, and in these cases shaving is often
the safest way to reset the coat and start proper maintenance.
We always evaluate the coat at check-in and explain the situation
to the owner so expectations are clear before we begin.
If the mat can be safely separated from the skin, we will gently brush it out using professional tools and detangling products.
However, when mats are tight to the skin, brushing can be painful and may damage the skin. In those cases, shaving is the safest and most humane option.
Severe matting is not just cosmetic. It can trap moisture, restrict movement, and lead to irritation or even circulation issues.
For double-coated breeds, we take a different approach.
We do not shave double-coated dogs for aesthetic reasons, as shaving
can damage coat structure and affect natural thermoregulation.
Whenever possible, we focus on deshedding and preserving the coat.
However, if the coat is severely impacted, matted close to the skin, or already damaged by previous shaving, we assess the situation individually
and choose the safest option for the dog.
For poodles, doodles, and similar coat types, timing is critical. During coat transition, matting can form very close to the skin, and in these cases shaving is often
the safest way to reset the coat and start proper maintenance.
We always evaluate the coat at check-in and explain the situation
to the owner so expectations are clear before we begin.
Grooming Shouldn't Make Your Dog Stressed
Most grooming salons hide what happens behind closed doors. We built ours with glass walls because we have nothing to hide — ever. Watch every moment. See your dog relaxed. Leave knowing they were treated with love
- TRANSPARENCYSee Everything. Trust Everything.
- Glass walls
- Watch anytime
- Live updates
- ACCEPTANCEEvery Dog Welcome. No Exceptions.
- Up to 235 lbs
- Seniors 13+
- Anxious dogs OK
- COMFORT FIRSTWe Measure Success by Tail Wags, Not Speed.
- Cage-free
- Fear-free
- Never rushed
Bichon Frise Grooming in Morrisville & Cary, NC
Gentle Bichon Frise Grooming for Soft, Curly Coats
Bichon Frise dogs are known for their soft white curls, cheerful personality, and adorable rounded appearance. Behind that fluffy coat is a grooming routine that requires regular maintenance and professional care.
At Rebel Tails, we provide gentle Bichon Frise grooming in Morrisville, NC, for pet parents from Cary, Raleigh, Apex, Durham, and surrounding Triangle communities.
Our grooming services may include:
- Bath and blow-dry
- Full-body haircut
- Face trimming
- Paw and sanitary care
- Ear cleaning
- Nail trimming or nail grinding
Why Bichon Frise Coats Need Regular Professional Grooming
Bichons have continuously growing coats that require consistent care. Their curly coat can trap dirt, moisture, and tangles, especially around the legs, ears, chest, belly, and tail.
Regular professional grooming helps prevent matting, supports healthier skin, and makes daily maintenance easier for owners.
Benefits of routine grooming include:
- Reduced matting
- Improved coat condition
- Cleaner appearance
- Better comfort
- Easier home maintenance
Bichon Frise Haircuts, Face Trims & Coat Maintenance
Some owners prefer a classic rounded Bichon Frise haircut, while others choose a shorter maintenance trim for easier upkeep.
We can help you choose a style that fits your dog’s coat condition, grooming schedule, and preferred appearance.
Popular options include a rounded Bichon look, teddy bear-inspired trim, or a shorter pet cut.
De-Matting and Sensitive Skin Care for Bichons
Bichon Frise dogs often have sensitive skin, making proper de-matting techniques especially important. Heavy pulling and aggressive brushing can cause discomfort and irritation.
If mats are present, we carefully assess the coat and recommend the safest grooming approach for your dog’s comfort.
How Often Should a Bichon Frise Be Groomed?
Most Bichon Frise dogs benefit from professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks. Dogs with longer coats or coats that mat easily may require more frequent visits.
Regular appointments can help maintain:
- Healthy coat growth
- Reduced tangles
- Better skin condition
- Comfort between appointments
- A polished appearance
Bichon Frise Grooming Near Cary, Morrisville & Raleigh
Rebel Tails is located in Morrisville, NC, and serves Bichon Frise owners from Cary, Raleigh, Apex, Durham, and nearby communities.
If you are searching for a Bichon Frise groomer near Cary, our team provides breed-aware grooming focused on comfort, coat health, and detailed care.
FAQ
How often should a Bichon Frise be groomed?
Most Bichon Frise dogs should be professionally groomed every 4 to 6 weeks.
Do Bichon Frise dogs get matted easily?
Yes. Their soft, curly coat can hide tangles close to the skin and requires regular brushing and grooming.
Can you do a Bichon Frise teddy bear cut?
Yes. We offer teddy bear-style trims, shorter maintenance cuts, and classic rounded Bichon-inspired styles.
Do you offer Bichon Frise grooming near Cary, NC?
Yes. Rebel Tails serves pet owners from Cary, Raleigh, Apex, Durham, and surrounding Triangle communities.