A Small Breed
The Bichon Frise breed is a small breed of dog. Bichon Frise usually weigh in at no more than 20 pounds and stand less than a foot tall. Bichons have soft, white, curly, fluffy fur, which is one of their most recognizable characteristics. They have tails that tend to curve up over their backs and have black eyes and noses. Due to the appearance of their fur, sometimes Bichon Frise are mistaken for poodles. But, they are actually not related to the poodle breed.
Hypoallergenic - Bichons Do Not Shed
Bichons possess another widely sought-after trait: they do not shed as many other breeds do. Additionally, Bichons have hypoallergenic qualities as well. They are a popular option for families with allergies. A Bichon Frise dog generally has a lifespan ranging from 11 years to 16 years. Your Bichon is more likely to live longer if it gets plenty of play and exercise and eats the proper amount to maintain a healthy weight. Bichons enjoy eating a great deal and are sometimes prone to overeating and weight gain. If you are not sure how much your Bichon ought to be eating, check with your veterinarian for advice.
Intelligent & Easy To Train
Easy to train and intelligent, Bichons make great family companions. It is said that this breed can be sensitive, so it is best to work with a trainer who is experienced with this specific breed. Bichons love to please and respond very well to gentle obedience training. Bichons are very loving and loyal and will bond well with a single owner or a family. Bichons enjoy people and are friendly, and while they are by no means a breed that does well as guard dogs, they can alert you when a stranger is at the door, for example.
Energetic & Playful
Bichons are very energetic and playful and will do best in a family where they can receive a lot of exercise and attention. If your dog must be alone for long periods of time during the day, a Bichon Frise may not be for you. This breed can suffer from separation anxiety and needs to be part of a family that can spend a lot of time with it. Bichons are also a good choice for families with children. Your Bichon will thrive in an environment with so much extra attention and energy to play. Be sure to set expectations for gentle play with your family, however, since Bichons are such a small breed.
Special Grooming Needs
While Bichons do not shed like many other breeds, they do require regular and particular grooming. It is generally recommended to go to a professional groomer so you can be sure your Bichon Frise is properly cared for. You can learn to groom your Bichon yourself, but Bichon grooming is much more involved than it would be with other breeds, so that is generally not recommended.
Great Choice For Apartment Dwellers
If they receive enough exercise and play, Bichons adapt well to apartment living. They are a great choice for apartment dwellers due to their small size, lack of shedding, friendly demeanor, limited barking, and intelligence. But remember, your Bichon will not do well if left alone for long periods, so be sure you plan ahead.
View our selection of stickers, magnets, signs and more for the Bichon Frise dog breed.