Bichon Frise: temperament, size, care and health

About the Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a small white dog with a rounded, cotton-ball outline, a dark nose, dark round eyes and a plumed tail that curls over the back. Its coat is curly, soft and dense, and when brushed out and trimmed it gives the breed its trademark powder-puff look. Adults are sturdy for their size, with a slightly longer body than they are tall.

Bichons were kept as companions and entertainers, and that history shows in their lively, outgoing character. Today people value them for their small size, cheerful manner and a coat that sheds very little, though that same coat demands attention.

Temperament and family life

A Bichon is an upbeat and affectionate dog that generally believes everyone is a friend. It is playful, sometimes silly, and tends to be at its best in the middle of family activity. It usually welcomes visitors, children and other pets with enthusiasm, and aggression is unusual.

The same sociable nature has a cost: a Bichon often dislikes being alone and can develop separation anxiety, barking or house-soiling when left for long hours. The breed is small and easily hurt by rough handling, so young children should be taught to be gentle. Bichons can bark at noises, but the voice is usually not as sharp as that of many toy breeds.

Exercise and training

Bichons have a fair amount of energy for their size and enjoy a daily walk plus a play session. They like to dash around the house or garden in sudden bursts and are happy chasing balls and learning tricks. Many do well in agility, rally and trick classes.

The breed is smart and responsive, and with positive methods it learns quickly. House training is the common sticking point and can be slow, so a firm routine, frequent trips outdoors and a crate or pen often help. A bored, lonely Bichon barks and misbehaves, so mental activity and company matter as much as walking.

Grooming and shedding

The curly coat sheds little, which makes the breed a common choice for people with allergies, though no dog is allergen free. The coat does tangle and mat quickly, so thorough brushing every day or two is needed, with attention to the legs, ears and under the arms. Most owners take the dog to a professional groomer every four to six weeks for a bath, blow-dry and trim.

Tear staining is common on the white face and can be reduced by wiping the eyes daily. Hair grows inside the ear canal, so ear checks and cleaning are part of the routine, together with nail trims and tooth brushing.

Health

The Bichon is long-lived, but it is prone to certain conditions. Patellar luxation is common. Allergies and skin problems are frequent, and some dogs develop bladder stones, dental disease, cataracts and, less often, hip dysplasia or an immune-mediated blood disorder. Obesity worsens many of these.

Responsible breeders examine knees, hips and eyes, and some also screen for heart disease. This is general information about the Bichon Frise, and a veterinarian is the person to ask about a particular dog.

History

The Bichon Frise belongs to a family of small white Mediterranean dogs of the bichon type. Dogs of this type were carried by sailors and became favorites in the courts of Spain, Italy and France. After the French Revolution the little dogs fell from aristocratic favor and became street performers and circus dogs. The French kennel club recognized the breed in 1933, and dogs reached the United States in the 1950s.

Is the Bichon Frise right for you?

A Bichon suits someone who wants a small, friendly, non-shedding dog and who has the time and budget for regular grooming. It does well in apartments and in homes where someone is around for much of the day.

It is a poor match for people who want a low-maintenance coat, an independent dog, or one that is quick to housetrain. Similar companions include the Havanese, which has a silkier coat, and the Coton de Tulear, which is slightly sturdier. The Maltese is smaller still and is often a little more reserved.