How to Make a Topknot for a Dog

Many dogs wear a bow or topknot on the top of their head as an accessory to look cuter or more elegant. Mainly small dogs such as Schnauzers, Poodles, or Yorkshires, thanks to their long, fine coat, which is ideal for this kind of thing.

However, putting a topknot on a dog isn't always a good idea, since some dogs can feel bothered by the strange sensation of constantly having something on their head. They don't understand that it's a bow or topknot to look prettier — they simply notice something there that shouldn't be.

We're going to explain the pros and cons of putting a topknot on our dog, as well as how to do it so it doesn't feel uncomfortable, and what details we need to keep in mind so our pup stays happy.

How to Make Topknots

Although it may sound strange, many people not only don't know how to make a topknot for their dog, but out of ignorance are even capable of using clips or adhesives that can cause a lot of discomfort and pain to the dog.

It's important to know how to make topknots or bows for dogs correctly, to avoid hurting them when they wear them, and so they feel comfortable with them. Let's not forget that dogs don't need topknots to look cute... they're a human whim.

How Do You Attach the Bow to the Topknot?

You can't put a topknot on a short-haired dog because it's simply not possible, although some heartless people use adhesives.... that's not the right thing to do, since it harms the dog.

Long-haired dogs such as Yorkshires or Schnauzers can wear a topknot without any problem — we simply need to brush and comb them so their coat is ready and loose.

Then we'll take a hair tie or elastic band and make a small little bun (ponytail) on the top of the head. We should avoid doing it near the ears, since their ears are extremely sensitive and they would definitely be very uncomfortable.

Once we've gathered a bit of hair with the elastic, we'll go ahead and attach the topknot or bow with the help of a clip, as shown in the video. This way the topknot will stay in place and our dog will look more elegant and cute.

Is It Bad to Put a Topknot On It?

Personally, we don't recommend putting topknots on dogs, because whether we like it or not, it's something that bothers them. Many dogs start scratching thinking they have some kind of insect, others simply stay resigned but uncomfortable.

Making our dog look cuter is entirely unnecessary — they're already beautiful enough without having to wear a bow. We don't recommend putting a bow/topknot on any dog, whether female or male. We don't really see the point of putting a topknot on a male dog either, but to each their own.

If you're going to put a topknot on your dog no matter what, try to start doing it from puppyhood so it gets used to it and it's not so bothersome. Give it a treat when you put it on so it knows it's something good, even though it will bother it (because it will). And if you notice it scratching, trying to take it off, or feeling uncomfortable... please, take it off.

It's not bad to put a topknot on a dog, but it's not good either — it's simply something uncomfortable for the dog.