Bichon Frise

Non-Sporting Group

Also known as: Barbichon types, Bichon Tenerife, Bichon a Poil Frisé

Size Category:Small
Height:9.5-11.5 inches
Weight:12-18 pounds
Life Span:14-15 years
Compare Bichon Frise

Affectionate With Family

How affectionate a breed is likely to be with family members, or other people he knows well. Some breeds can be aloof with everyone but their owner, while other breeds treat everyone they know like their best friend.

Good With Young Children

A breed's level of tolerance and patience with childrens' behavior, and overall family-friendly nature. Dogs should always be supervised around young children, or children of any age who have little exposure to dogs.

Good With Other Dogs

How generally friendly a breed is towards other dogs. Dogs should always be supervised for interactions and introductions with other dogs, but some breeds are innately more likely to get along with other dogs, both at home and in public.

Openness To Strangers

How welcoming a breed is likely to be towards strangers. Some breeds will be reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the location, while other breeds will be happy to meet a new human whenever one is around!

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Note: Scores reflect typical breed tendencies. Individual dogs may vary based on training, environment, and genetics.

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Note: Some traits may be unavailable for certain breeds due to limited or inconsistent data from recognized sources.

Care Guide

  • ●Bichon Frise grooming requires regular brushing (2-3 times weekly, daily ideal) to prevent mats from forming in their low-shedding undercoat
  • ●Monthly baths and clippings are essential, though most pet owners visit a groomer every 4-6 weeks
  • ●Their hypoallergenic coat benefits from consistent brushing to remove trapped shed hair
  • ●Nails should be trimmed regularly as part of routine care
  • ●Show owners often handle grooming themselves, while others rely on professional groomers

Colors & Markings

Colors

WhiteWhite & ApricotWhite & BuffWhite & Cream

Health Information

Bichons are typically robust dogs, but ethical breeders prioritize health testing for common issues like allergies, bladder infections, luxating patella, and eye conditions such as cataracts. Proper dental hygiene, including regular tooth brushing, is critical to prevent early tooth loss and gum disease. Routine ear cleaning helps minimize the risk of infections, ensuring long-term well-being.

Recommended Health Tests

Patella EvaluationHip EvaluationOphthalmologist Evaluation

📜 History

The Bichon Frise traces its roots to the Barbichon family of small white dogs, including the Bolognese, Havanese, and Maltese, with origins believed to lie on Tenerife, the largest Canary Island. Known as the Bichon Tenerife, this breed gained favor among sailors before becoming a cherished companion of European nobility in the 13th century, particularly in Spain, Italy, and France, flourishing during the Renaissance. The French Revolution marked a turning point, as aristocratic owners faced execution, leaving many Bichons abandoned. Street performers adopted them, training them for circus acts and entertainment due to their trainability and charm. The 20th century brought further challenges with World War shortages, but dedicated breed enthusiasts rescued the breed, preserving it in France under the name Bichon à Poil Frisé by 1933. The Bichon Frise Club of America formed in 1964, and the AKC recognized the breed in Miscellaneous class in 1971, granting full Non-Sporting Group status in 1973.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the Bichon Frise is generally excellent with children. They are typically patient and tolerant, making them great family pets. However, supervision with young children is always recommended.
No, the Bichon Frise is considered a low-shedding breed. While all dogs shed slightly, this breed is much easier on your furniture and clothes tailored for those who dislike cleanup.
Yes, the Bichon Frise is generally intelligent and eager to please, which makes them easier to train than many other breeds. Positive reinforcement works best.
The Bichon Frise requires a significant amount of grooming. Daily administration or frequent professional grooming is often necessary to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy.
The Bichon Frise can be a suitable choice for a first-time owner who is willing to do their research and dedicate time to training and care.

🔗Related Breeds

Breeds similar to Bichon Frise

Boston Terrier

Boston Terrier

8/10
80% Compatibility
American Eskimo Dog

American Eskimo Dog

6/10
60% Compatibility
Affenpinscher

Affenpinscher

2/10
20% Compatibility
Compare Bichon Frise with Boston Terrier

Overview

About This Breed

The Bichon Frise is a cheerful, affectionate, and playful breed with a peppy and curious nature. Highly social and adaptable, they thrive on companionship and attention, making them excellent family pets, though they can be somewhat vocal and may struggle with separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.

🎭Temperament

FeistyAffectionateCheerfulPlayfulGentleSensitive

Purpose

Companion dog, historically favored by European nobles and aristocrats as a lapdog and show dog; also known for performing in circuses and street entertainment

Breed for

Companion

Best Suited For

Apartment living, families with children, active singles, and owners who enjoy grooming and companionship

Ideal Owner Profile

This breed is ideal for owners who enjoy grooming, seek a lively yet adaptable companion, and can provide consistent companionship and mental stimulation.

Training Difficulty

Moderate

Care Difficulty

High

Common Challenges

Owners may face challenges with housebreaking and separation anxiety, as well as the need for regular grooming to prevent mats and maintain coat health.

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About Our Data

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