Read About Bichon Frise

ImageBichon Frise ended up on the streets during the French Revolution and was trained as circus dogs. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Bichon Frise Summary:

  1. Size:

    Small dog
  2. Weight:

    7-12 lbs
  3. Coat:

    Soft, curly and puffy hair
  4. Shedding:

    Minimal to no shedding of fur.
  5. Temperament:

    The Bichon Frise is gentle, playful, cheerful and affectionate.
  6. Obedience:

    Has an obedient nature
  7. Ease of Training:

    Very easy to train
  8. Way with Children:

    They are perfect pets for children.

Bichon Frise -- Facts

  1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

    Non-sporting/1972
  2. Size & Weight:

    9-12 inches, 10-18 lbs
  3. Coat:

    Soft, dense, velvety or powder puff appearance
  4. Head & Muzzle:

    Their eyes are large, round and brown or black. Their ears hang and the skull is slightly rounded. The muzzle is proportionately balanced with the rest of the body. Their nose is black and has a strong jaw.
  5. Body:

    Their chest is well developed and wide enough to allow unrestricted movement of the legs. The fore chest protrudes slightly toward the shoulder.
  6. Colors:

    They are normally white and may have some cream color or apricot around the ears and on their body.
  7. Life Expectancy:

    12-15 years
  8. Popularity:

    Very popular show dogs
  9. Habitat:

    They have been known to live indoors and will not have a problem in apartments or a location without a yard.

Bichon Frise -- Origins

  1. Country of Origin:

    Spain
  2. Historical Information:

    The Bichon Frise originated from the Bichon Maltais, the Bichon Bolognais, the Bichon Havanais and the Bichon Teneriffe. These dogs traveled with the sailors because they made them happy on their trips. The Spanish seamen bartered with these dogs and introduced them to the Italians. During the 1800's they became companions for the blind, organ grinders and trained for circuses and fairs. Image

Bichon Frise -- Defining Characteristics

  1. Temperament:

    Tugging on toys teaches the puppy to defend itself and become aggressive. Teasing a Bichon will cause it to bite or be fearful of humans. They can be characterized as watch dogs but not guard dogs.
  2. Behavior:

    The Bichon does not like to be left alone. They are lap dogs.
  3. Habits:

    It has a tendency to dart out in the street and move very fast. May be difficult to housebreak.

Bichon Frise -- Concerns

  1. Health Issues:

    Eye diseases, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, juvenile cataracts, liver defects/diseases, heart problems, epilepsies, autoimmune diseases, and cancers. They may be very sensitive to fleabites.
  2. Exercise Needs:

    They love to walk and like to be playful.
  3. Grooming Needs:

    This pet needs regular grooming because its hair will become matted.
  4. Travel Needs:

    It is recommended to feed your dog prior to the start of the trip. Pack a bag with cleaning supplies in case of an accident. Make an appointment with the veterinarian to make sure that the dog is capable of making the trip. Contact the lodging facility to make sure that they are pet friendly.
  5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

    A larger dog in the same vicinity of the Bichon may harm it. But normally the Bichon will get along with other pets and with children that do not tease or poke at them.

Bichon Frise -- How to Choose

  1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

    You should look at the Bichon eyes to make sure that they are clear and not cloudy. Check the kneecaps for any looseness. They should have a cheerful and happy disposition. Check for missing teeth and for any discoloration or abnormalities on the coat.
  2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

    It is important to determine if you will have the adequate time to train the puppy. You will need a fenced area when the Bichon is outside. Make sure that you have play toys, fresh drinking water, a crate and quality food.
  3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

    It is a good idea to get a child protective gate to provide a safe environment. Make sure that all loose toys are removed from the floor; electrical or cabling are secured from possible entanglement. Make sure that the garbage is covered. Look along any fenced areas to see if there any holes that may allow for an escape. You should also supervision the addition of the Bichon to children or other pets.