Breeds
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Bichon Frise

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a cheerful, velvet-soft companion with a low-shedding coat and a love of people. Excellent for apartments and first-time owners who can commit to regular grooming and play.

Breed Group
Non-Sporting
Activity Level
Moderate
Size Category
Small
Coat Type
Double Coat
Coat Texture
Curly
Activity Level
Moderate
Trainability
High
Shedding Level
Minimal
Family Friendly
Yes
Apartment Friendly
Yes
Hypoallergenic
Yes
Breed Type
Purebred

Breed History

Belonging to the Bichon family of Mediterranean lapdogs, the modern Bichon Frise gained popularity in France and Spain and became a beloved companion known for a merry temperament and plush white coat.

Physical Characteristics

Athletic and well-balanced with hallmark breed features.

  • Weight: 12–18 lb (5–8 kg)
  • Height: 9.5–11.5 in (24–29 cm)
  • Coat type: Double coat: soft undercoat with curly outer coat
  • Coat colors: White (cream/apricot shadings may appear)
  • Distinctive traits: Velvety, powder-puff appearance; dark eyes and nose; plumed tail over back

Grooming

Regular, professional grooming keeps the coat clean, tangle-free, and bright.

  • Brushing: Daily light brushing to prevent mats.
  • Professional grooming: Every 4–6 weeks; tidy face/feet, scissoring.
  • Bathing: Every 3–4 weeks; dry thoroughly.
  • Eyes/Ears: Wipe tear stains; keep ears clean and dry.
  • Nails/Teeth: Nails every 2–3 weeks; brush teeth 2–3×/week.

Exercise Needs

Moderate needs; enjoys play and short, frequent walks.

  • Daily duration: 30–45 minutes split into small sessions.
  • Activities: Walks, fetch, puzzle toys, basic agility for fun.
  • Apartment: Excellent with enrichment and routine.

Training Tips

Bright, social, and responsive—keep training upbeat.

  • Approach: Reward-based; short, positive sessions.
  • Focus areas: House training consistency, polite greetings.
  • Socialization: Early exposure to grooming handling and noises.

Nutrition & Diet

Balanced small-breed diet; monitor weight to prevent pudginess.

  • Food type: High-quality small-breed formula or balanced fresh.
  • Quantity: ~1–1.5 cups/day split into 2 meals; adjust to condition.

Adoption & Breeders

Work with preservation breeders or consider rescue.

  • Breeders: CKC/AKC referrals; patellas, eyes.
  • Rescue: Bichon-specific rescues and all-breed groups.

Health Concerns

Generally healthy; choose health-tested breeding lines.

  • Orthopedic: Patellar luxation.
  • Dental: Small-breed dental disease—regular care is crucial.
  • Allergies/Skin: Sensitivities can occur.
  • Life expectancy: 12–15 years.

Frequent Asked Questions

Are Bichon Frises hypoallergenic?
Often suitable for allergy sufferers, but no dog is 100% hypoallergenic.

Do Bichon Frises shed?
Minimal—loose hair is trapped in the coat and removed during grooming.

Good apartment dogs?
Yes—daily walks and play keep them content.

Hard to groom?
Plan for daily brushing and professional grooming every 4–6 weeks.

Good with kids?
Yes, with gentle handling and supervision.

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