The Bichon’s bathing-a-bichoncoat must be completely brushed out and mat free before you even think about bathing. Water added to a matted coat will “felt,” creating a solid lump of hair that cannot be disentangled or brushed out. Once your Bichon is thoroughly brushed out, get everything ready that you will need. Not all dogs love bath time and the last thing you’ll want to have happen is Pierre deciding he is going to leap out of the tub while you are hunting for the shampoo or a washcloth.