A bichon frize groomed in the traditional poofy style

Bichon Frise Dogs – All About the Bichon Frise Dog Breed

Discover Everything About Bichon Frise Dogs With Photos

If Bichon Frise dogs hold a special place in your heart, you’ve landed on the perfect page! Our comprehensive guide about the Bichon Frise breed is designed to equip you with all the necessary information about these captivating, small, white fluffy dogs.

The guide covers a broad range of topics including the breed’s history, appearance, interesting facts, health concerns, and lifespan. It also provides valuable insights on how to care for and train your Bichon Frise. This breed information guide will assist you in determining if a Bichon Frise is the ideal pet for you and your family.

Bichon Frise Dog Breed Information Guide

The Bichon Frise, a small hypoallergenic non-shedding dog breed that originated in the Mediterranean and is a descendant of the Barbet or Water Spaniel, was initially divided into four categories: the Bichon Teneriffe, Bichon Maltais, Bichon Bolognais, and Bichon Havanais. Originally known as Barbichon, the name was later shortened to Bichon. Despite the various names, this breed has become one of the most popular small dogs globally. Its widespread popularity is often attributed to its unique personality, according to Bichon enthusiasts.

Bichon Frise History

The Bichon Frise are generally very happy and cheerful individuals, and they seem to have a great love of traveling. Quite often, sailors would barter with these little white dogs, using them as trade items as they traveled across the seas and from continent to continent.

It is believed that it was the trading practices of the Spanish sailors that first introduced the Bichon Frise to the Canary Islands, but as far back as the early 1300s, Italian sailors claimed to have discovered this unique little island-bred dog and they eagerly reintroduced it back to the Continent.

In no time, they became a favorite of the Italian nobility and, amongst those that frequented the courts, the Bichon Frise was often clipped in a fashionable style, resembling a lion.

In addition to their popularity in Italy, the Bichon also remained a favorite of the Spanish Infantas. The painters of the Spanish school frequently painted the Bichon Frise in many of their works.

During the Renaissance, this adorable little white dog also captivated the French, though it wasnt until the court of Henry III, that the Bichon truly gained a place amongst the French nobility.

Of course, as court fashion came and went, it wasnt long before the powder puff Bichon was set aside for something else that was new and exciting.

The Bichon Frise would enjoy a brief popularity peak while Napoleon III ruled, but he would soon become known as the common dog and was then left to the peasants, where he ran loose in the streets or performed in local fairs and circuses.

Popular amongst the organ grinders from Barbary, this happy-go-lucky white dog enjoyed his place in the spotlight and eagerly learned new tricks that endeared him in the hearts of many. Common dog or not, he was determined to make his mark in the dog world.

In 1933, the Societe Centrale Canine of France adopted an official standard for this fluffy white dog. At this time, they were known as either the Bichon or the Teneriffe, so the president of the International Canine Federation proposed that a single name would be decided, that would identify the traits of this unique little dog and, with that, so he was named the Bichon Frise (Frise making reference to the breeds soft and curly hair).

Bichon Frise Appearance

The Bichon Frise, a small but cheerful breed of dog, typically stands between 9 and 12 inches at the shoulder. This breed is highly distinguished and easily recognizable due to its incredibly curly, soft coat. This coat is not just a beauty feature but also a functional one, as it helps to keep the small breed warm.

One of the most striking features of the Bichon Frise is the color of its coat. The only variety of Bichon Frise is pure white. This bright, snowy coat is so fluffy and voluminous that they are often humorously referred to as ‘powder puffs.’ While the comparison may seem unusual to the uninitiated, anyone who has seen a Bichon Frise will agree that the nickname fits perfectly due to their fluffy appearance.

Adding to the Bichon Frise’s overall appealing appearance is its plumed tail. This tail is always carried happily draped over his back, giving the Bichon an air of confidence and joy. Furthermore, the dark, inquisitive eyes of the Bichon Frise lend the breed an expression of curiosity and intelligence. This combination of features gives the Bichon an aura of exuberance and a willing nature that is hard to resist.

Beyond their physical characteristics, the Bichon Frise is also known for its mental acuity. These dogs are very intelligent and are usually playful. They have a keen sense of their surroundings and are quick to pick up on their owner’s mood and commands. Because of their intelligence, Bichons can be trained easily, making them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners.

The Bichon Frise’s intelligence and playful nature make them excellent companion animals. They are not just pets, but companions who provide entertainment, companionship, and comfort to their owners. Their playful and loving nature, combined with their small size and low shedding coat, make them a popular house pet. They are well-suited to apartment living and are known to get along well with children and other pets. These qualities make the Bichon Frise a favorite among dog lovers and an excellent choice for a family pet.

Bichon frise photo gallery

Bichon Frise Temperament & Behavior

The Bichon Frise, a breed known for its captivating charm and vivacious personality, is often considered one of the most engaging, fun, and entertaining breeds a dog lover could possibly own. It’s not just the fluffy cotton-ball appearance that adds to its appeal, but also the vibrant energy and affectionate disposition that the breed possesses.

Bichon Frises are naturally happy dogs, carrying an aura of cheerfulness wherever they go. Their eagerness to please is one of their most endearing traits, as they’re always ready to lighten up the mood with their playful antics and loving personality. They are quick learners and often respond positively to training. This, combined with their innate sociability, makes them a wonderful breed to have around.

Bichon Frises are suitable companions for individuals of all ages, from children to the elderly. Their gentle and patient nature makes them great playmates for children. They are known to coexist peacefully with other pets and can be quite protective of their human friends, making them great family dogs.

For the elderly or disabled owners, a Bichon Frise can be a comforting friend. Their size makes them perfect lap dogs, and they’re content to simply sit and enjoy the company of their owners. They thrive on human companionship and are known for their unconditional love and loyalty. They are also an excellent choice for those living in apartments or homes with limited space, as they don’t require a lot of room to roam around.

Moreover, the Bichon Frise breed is known for its daily displays of charm that are sure to delight its owners. This breed enjoys being the center of attention and will often engage in amusing behaviors to earn a laugh or a cuddle. They are known for their ‘Bichon Blitz,’ where they run around in high spirits, which is a joy to watch.

In conclusion, the Bichon Frise is a delightful, warm-hearted breed that brings joy, companionship, and entertainment to its owners’ lives. Whether you’re a young child looking for a playful friend, an adult seeking a loyal companion, or an elderly individual in need of a loving lap dog, the Bichon Frise is a breed that caters to everyone’s needs with its vibrant personality and loving nature.

Bichon Frise Exercise and Activity Requirements

Bichons are lively, but don\’t need a lot of space or exercise to keep them healthy and happy. For this reason, they are a great choice for apartment life or life with an elderly or disabled dog lover.

Bichons, a breed of small dogs, are known for their vibrant and lively nature. They are often seen to be full of life, always eager to play and interact with their human companions. However, contrary to what their energetic demeanor might suggest, they don’t require a large amount of space or extensive periods of exercise to maintain their health and happiness.

Their relatively low exercise requirements make them easy to take care of, especially for those who may not be able to engage in strenuous activities. A quick walk around the block or a short play session indoors would suffice for these adorable canines. This makes Bichons an excellent choice for people who live in apartments or smaller spaces, as the dogs can easily adapt to living in compact spaces without getting restless or unhappy.

Bichons are also a great choice for the elderly or disabled dog lovers. Since these dogs do not require a lot of physical activity, they can be easily cared for by individuals who might have mobility issues or other physical limitations. These dogs are incredibly loving and affectionate, and their small size makes them easy to handle and care for.

Not only do they provide companionship, but their cheerful and gentle demeanor can bring a lot of joy and comfort to their owners. The fact that they don’t require a lot of space or exercise simply adds to their appeal, making them a great choice for those living in apartments or for the elderly or disabled individuals.

In conclusion, Bichons, with their lively yet easily manageable nature, are a fantastic choice for dog lovers who might have space constraints or physical limitations. They are not just pets, but companions that can provide comfort, companionship, and happiness with their presence.

Bichon Frise Grooming Info

While the Bichon Frise is a small breed dog known for its low exercise requirements, their grooming needs are a completely different story. These dogs are characterized by their beautiful and distinctive white fluffy coat. It’s a single coat that grows long and thrives, adding to their charm. However, this also means that they require a lot of care and maintenance.

To keep their coat in good condition, daily brushing is essential. This helps to prevent tangles and knots from forming. In addition to daily brushing, frequent baths are necessary. This helps to keep their coat clean and fresh, and also helps to prevent any skin conditions that can result from a lack of cleanliness.

A professional groomer should be visited around 4 times a year to trim their coat. However, if the owner is willing to learn, they could do this grooming task themselves using dog clippers. This can be a great bonding experience between the owner and dog, as well as a cost-saving measure.

Bichons also have ears that can be susceptible to yeast infections and mite infestations. To keep these problems at bay, a once-weekly cleansing with an acidifying ear wash is recommended. This will help to balance the pH levels in their ears, preventing the growth of yeast and mites.

Dental care is another important grooming need for Bichons. They can be prone to dental problems, which is why daily tooth brushing is essential. This is a quick and easy task that can be integrated into their daily routine.

A unique grooming requirement of the Bichon Frise involves keeping their rear end area clean and well-groomed. If the fur in this area is allowed to grow, it can cause distress to the dog when feces cling to the fur, a situation humorously referred to as “poop-hikers”. This can be embarrassing and frightening for the dog, and can be avoided by keeping the hair around this area short. This can be done at home with the careful use of scissors, ensuring that the dog remains clean and comfortable at all times.

In conclusion, while the Bichon Frise may not require much in terms of exercise, their grooming needs are extensive and require daily attention to keep them looking their best and feeling comfortable.

Bichon Frise Training

The Bichon Frise is a breed of dog known for its intelligence and ability to easily learn tricks and commands. They are quick learners and are highly responsive to positive reinforcement, particularly high praise. Bichons thrive on frequent compliments and rewards, and they are always eager to please their owners.

However, house training can be a bit more challenging for this breed. Bichons are notoriously hard to housebreak, earning them the amusing nickname from their owners as the “Pees-On”. Despite this, it’s important to remember that Bichons can indeed be housetrained – it simply requires a bit more persistence and consistency.

Many Bichon owners have found success in house training their pets using the ‘tether method’. This involves tethering or tying the Bichon to the owner using a short leash for about 48 hours. The idea is to closely observe the dog and notice any signs that it might be about to pee or poop, and immediately take it outside. A consistent phrase such as “Do Your Pee” or “Let’s Do It” can be used each time the dog is taken out. The phrase should be spoken in a cheerful tone, and if the dog complies, it should be rewarded with high praise and possibly even a treat.

It’s important to celebrate the success of the dog enthusiastically, even if it seems a bit over the top. After all, the goal is for the dog to associate the act of going outside to pee or poop with positive feelings and rewards. However, owners should be mindful not to overdo it with the treats, as some dogs may start to associate the act of peeing or pooping with receiving treats, and may start to do it more often to get more treats.

The tether training method should be continued for about 48 hours or until the dog starts to get the hang of it. If the Bichon has had accidents in the house, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean the area with a biological enzymatic cleaner to remove any residual smells that could tempt the dog to repeat the mistake.

Despite the challenges that come with house training a Bichon, owners agree that the breed’s charming personality and delightful nature more than make up for it. Even the occasional inconvenience of cleaning up after the dog is often brushed off as a small price to pay for the joy of having a Bichon Frise as a pet.

Bichon Frise Health Info

Bichons are a healthy, long lived breed of dog that have relatively few health problems, especially compared to other purebred dog breeds. The breeder from which you choose to purchase your Bichon puppy will be instrumental in the health of your new companion.

As with any popular purebred breed of dog, there are reputable breeders who breed for the health, wellbeing and longevity of their dogs and puppies, and there are other sources of purebred puppies that can be a very bad choice.

Make sure you acquire your Bichon puppy from a responsible breeder who health screens and breeds only the best to the best, to help ensure that your Bichon lives a long, happy and healthy life with you and your family.

Health problems that can occur in the Bichon Frise dog breed are:

Skin Allergies

Dental Problems (Gingivitis and Early Tooth Loss)

Both of these problems can be easily prevented or alleviated with regular grooming and proper care.

Other health conditions that rarely occur in the Bichon Frise are:

*Bladder infections and stones
*Orthopedic (patellar luxation, Legg-Calve Perthes, disk degeneration)
*Eye diseases (cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye)
*Cardiac Problems
*Cancers (no one type predominant)
*Metabolic diseases (Cushings, diabetes, pancreatic)
*Disease of the liver and spleen
*Ear (infections, deafness)

A responsible breeder will be well educated about conditions that may affect the Bichon and will health screen her dogs and follow a carefully selective breeding program. Choose your breeder carefully!

Is a Bichon Frise Right For You?

The Bichon is a wonderful companion animal and is generally happy and friendly. Rarely snappish, they are a favorite amongst the elderly, as well as with those who are allergic to most dogs, due to the fact that they dont shed like many breeds. Bichon also love children and tend to get along, very well, with cats and other dogs as well.

There are three main concerns to keep in mind, if you are thinking about getting a Bichon Frise puppy. The first of these is the amount of time that you have to spend with your puppy;

Bichons are companion animals and they enjoy company. While they can be taught to stay in a crate happily, they dislike being left alone for long periods of time, and they do love to travel.

The second and third concerns have to be the safety issues within your home – do you have larger, more aggressive dogs? If you do, you may want to have them meet on a more neutral territory and make sure that they get along.

The last and one of the most important concerns has to deal with children. While the Bichon Frise is an excellent family dog, and is very good with children, be wary of getting any puppy until your child is over the age of 5 years.

Puppies are very fragile creatures and can easily break bones if they are dropped, kicked, or fallen on. Be sure to protect your baby Bichon, just as you protect your own baby.

For more information on the Bichon Frise, or to examine whether or not a Bichon Frise will do well in your home, contact your veterinarian or local breeders and be sure to ask lots of questions.

If you decide on one of these adorable little dogs, discuss with the breeder, ahead of time, what will be needed for your new puppy. You definitely wont regret having such a warm and happy individual cross paths with you!

More Information about the Bichon Frise Dog Breed

Bichon Frise Supplies and Merchandise