Bichons 101

Non-Sporting

Intelligent, sweet-natured and playful, the Bichon Frise is a popular family dog, a good fit for homes with children, with empty-nesters and with singles alike. They are friendly and outgoing with strangers, typically get along well other dogs and are compatible with small family pets.

Their soft, wavy coats are usually white or off-white and typically kept clipped for ease of maintenance. As with other curly-coated dogs, the Bichon may be more readily tolerated by those with allergies.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about Bichons

Bright, sweet dog loves to learn tricks.

The Bichon’s favorite activity is whatever their families are doing. They are easy-going dogs whose exercise needs can be met with regular walks. With more active families, they are happy to do more and just as happy to snuggle on the couch after.

Energy level
Energy LevelEnergy Level
Bark level
  • bark-very-vocalVery vocal
  • bark-talkativeTalkative
  • bark-as-neededAs needed
Size
9.5 to 11.5 inches tall
Group Size Small
Lifespan
14 to 15 years
020
Weight
12 to 18 lbs
0150

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My pet’s health plannerSM

Mature adult Bichon

6 years to 9 years

Risk level for common Bichon conditions

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Urinary bladder stones

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Luxated patella

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Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

Senior Bichon

10+ years

Risk level for common Bichon conditions

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Diabetes mellitus

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Urinary bladder stones

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Cushings disease

Bichon puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Bichon conditions

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Ear infection

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Gastritis

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Dental disease

Young adult Bichon

7 months to 5 years

Risk level for common Bichon conditions

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Luxated patella

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Toxicity

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Gastritis

Mature adult Bichon

6 years to 9 years

Risk level for common Bichon conditions

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Urinary bladder stones

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Luxated patella

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Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

Senior Bichon

10+ years

Risk level for common Bichon conditions

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Diabetes mellitus

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Urinary bladder stones

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Cushings disease

Bichon puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Bichon conditions

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Ear infection

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Gastritis

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Dental disease

Young adult Bichon

7 months to 5 years

Risk level for common Bichon conditions

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Luxated patella

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Toxicity

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Gastritis

2-Bichon-frise-sitting-down GettyImages-861246790

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3-Fun fact-Bichon frise GettyImages-883391102

The rounded head of the Bichon Frise is an illusion – these gentle, playful dogs have a normal, dog-shaped head under their coif. The look is for the show ring only, and it’s impractical to maintain except by a skilled dog-groomer. If left alone, the Bichon’s coat will become a curly mop – adorable for sure, but hard to keep from being matted. Most Bichons are kept clipped short.

Bichon Frise coat care and colors

The Bichon Frise is one of a family that includes the Maltese, and the grooming needs of these breed are much the same. The fluffy white coat mats and tangles easily, which is why most Bichons are kept clipped short. Eye stains can be a problem in small white-colored dogs, so health issues should be ruled out before using any product meant to address the problem. Acclimating puppies to having their feet handled will make a lifetime of nail trims easier.

How often should my Bichon Frise get a haircut?

Bichon Frises typically visit a professional groomer every 6 to 8 weeks.

How do I keep my Bichon Frise’s coat white?

You can find safe dog shampoos that not only clean your Bichon's coat, but keep it looking bright white without resorting to bleaching.

How do I keep my Bichon Frise’s coat fluffy?

Keep your Bichon's coat clean and in good condition between grooming appointments. A slicker brush will restore the fluff to areas not kept clipped short.

Bichon exercise & training

Loves walks

Exercise level

Sweet-natured and easy-going, the Bichon Frise will be well-served with a brisk daily walk. Add a variety of games and play to keep things interesting for these clever dogs.

Class star

Trainability

Smart and eager to please, the Bichon Frise loves to learn and to show off. Teach some tricks using praise and small treats, and you’ll both have fun.

Group 7848

Bichon fun facts

Top girl names for Bichons

100%

of Bichons are female

0%

of Bichons are male

Top boy names for Bichons

Nationwide loves Bichon Frises of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Bichons

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