Bow Training Tips

Getting your furbaby accustomed to wearing something in their hair isn't that hard. Sometimes all it takes is a little patience, on both your part and theirs! Here are a few helpful tips to get you on the road to beautiful hair wear.


1. Start small
The best way to get your furbaby wearing bows is to first allow them to get used to having something in their hair - and not necessarily a bow right from the start. You could begin with a simple grooming band, with the hair not pulled too tight, so that they barely notice that there is something in their hair. This way the feeling of something "up there" won't be too overbearing since it is just a lightweight band. BowBiz offers grooming bands in two sizes and a variety of colors.

2. Stay small
After your furbaby is used to wearing a band, you can step up to a bow. Try to keep it on the smaller side and also with a lighter center. Nothing too large or too heavy. Again, it's all about your furbaby getting used to having something on their head. You are trying to get your little one gradually used to a bow. BowBiz offers several sizes of bows, including new Baby Boutique Bows - which are safe and easy beginner bows. If you are unsure of which bow size to use, please consult the Bow Sizing Information page.

3. Step up in size/weight
After your furbaby is used to wearing something lightweight and small, you can step up in size and/or weight.


Keeping a Bow in the Hair
If your furbaby has been 'bow trained', they will likely not actively try to remove the bow since they have gotten used to having something in their hair and it won't be an irritant to them. If they are trying to remove the bow (by shaking their head or by rubbing their head on the floor or using their paw) it is likely because they haven't gotten used to having something in their hair.

If, however, your furbaby has trouble keeping a bow in (it falls off during regular activity), here is a good method to minimize this problem. Put the hair in a topknot first with a band, then attach the bow, and follow this with another band so the bow is sandwiched between the bands. This method is better explained in the "How To Put In Dog Bows" area - along with photos/video.

If you are still having difficulty keeping bows in, you may wish to try a different bow backing. See below for details on bow backing options.


BOW BACKING SELECTION
There are 5 basic options of backings available on most bows. Bows come standard with 2 durable bands, however you can elect to change this to either a French barrette, alligator clip, alligator clip with GripZie or plastic barrette for a small additional fee. (See the Add a Barrette/Clip category.)

There is no "perfect backing" - the type of backing you select is a matter of personal taste and what works best for you and your furbaby. That being said, here are a few features of the backings.

BANDS: Each bow has 2 bands securely stitched to the back, only one of which is used at a time. The second one is a backup in case the other breaks, adding longevity to your bow. Tiny 3/8" bows use the smaller 1/4" bands, while the 5/8" and 7/8" bows are created with the slightly larger 5/16" bands. Bands used are durable and heavy weight. Since bands are a standard backing there is no extra charge.

FRENCH BARRETTE: Easy to snap in, often holds better than bands on fine hair. A helpful tip to keep barrette in the hair: create a topknot first, then slip barretted bow beneath the band - this way it cannot slip off the top! French barrettes used are high quality, nickel plated and tested to be lead free.

PLASTIC BARRETTE: These are offered as a more lightweight alternative to the standard metal French barrette. (Note that plastic barrettes are obviously not as durable as metal barrettes.) Plastic barrettes have a very tight, snug fit. A helpful tip to keep barrette in the hair: create a topknot first, then slip barretted bow beneath the band - this way it cannot slip off the top!

ALLIGATOR CLIP: Super easy to clip in and holds quite well on even a few strands of hair. Has tiny teeth which will not damage the hair. Alligator clips used are high quality, nickel plated and tested to be lead free.

ALLIGATOR CLIP WITH GRIPZIE: Same as alligator clip above but additionally lined with soft foam GripZie for gap free, no slip grip. GripZies are latex free and non toxic.


Of course, these are just general guidelines and suggestions with basic tips which have worked for many. Each individual is different and may find some methods work better than others. Use your judgement in deciding what works best for you personally. Sometimes it just takes a little experimenting to find what works best for you and your little one - but usually there's something that will work well. Happy bow training!


As always, no matter what backing you use, please take precautions that your furbaby does not accidentally swallow a bow and/or backing. Safety comes before beauty!



FOR BOW SIZES & FITTING, INCLUDING IMAGES - CLICK HERE

FOR DETAILS OF CONSTRUCTION - CLICK HERE