How to Groom a Chihuahua-Papillon Mixed Breed

• 1). Brush your Chihuahua-papillon frequently. Because the breed can have a variety of lengths in its coat, the longer the fur the more often you need to brush it. Regular brushing will keep your pet's coat soft, and will help prevent tangles and mats if he has a longer coat. Use a soft bristle dog brush for regular brushings. If your Chihuahua's coat is longer and has a tendency to tangle, use a wire brush to remove hair mats.
  
  
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  Start the grooming process for your Chihuahua-papillon with the proper tools.Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
  
  Bathe your Chihuahua-papillon as needed, typically about once every four to six weeks. This mixed breed does not have a tendency to have much odor, so bathing too frequently is not necessary. Use a shampoo formulated for your pet's specific needs, such as medicated if she has allergies or dry skin formula if your pet has flaky skin. Comb out any tangles or hair mats with a dog comb prior to bathing. Try a detangling formula if your Chihuahua-papillon is prone to tangles. Rinse thoroughly and dry your dog with a towel after his or her bath.
  
  
• 3). Clip your Chihuahua-papillon's nails as necessary, approximately once every month. Carefully trim just the tips of each nail so that you do not cut the sensitive nail quicks. Be careful if your pet has long fur around his or her toes, which is common for the breed, this can make nail trimming difficult because the nails will be hard to see. If you trim your Chihuahua-papillon's nails as needed, they will be much easier to cut.
  
  
• 4). Remember to clean your Chihuahua-papillon's eyes and ears. Use a cotton ball with saline solution to wipe around the delicate areas of your dog's eyes. Use a tissue to wipe in and around your dog's ears. Trim back excessive fur in the ears to help prevent infections. See your veterinarian if you notice excessive oozing or odor in and around your Chihuahua-papillon's eyes or ears, as this could be a sign of an infection.
  
  
• 5). Use flea preventative on your Chihuahua-papillon as prescribed by your vet. Fleas can cause your dog to be dirty, and to have skin irritation from scratching. Preventing fleas will prevent the problems they cause. Never use more flea preventative than is prescribed, as overdosing can be harmful to your small dog.