Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise (meaning “curly lap dog” in French) has a charming history that traces back to the Mediterranean region. These small white dogs are descendants of the Barbet, a water spaniel, and the “Barbichon” group of dogs includes the Bichon Frise, Maltese, Havanese, and Bolognese. They were popular companions for European nobility as early as the 13th century, particularly in Spain, Italy, and France.

During the Renaissance, Bichons were favored by French royalty and often appeared in portraits by artists like Goya. However, with the French Revolution, many Bichons lost their pampered lives and took to the streets, where their intelligence and charm made them popular street performers and circus dogs. After World War I, French breeders worked to preserve the breed, and the official breed standard was adopted in France in 1933. Bichons Frises were brought to the United States in the 1950s and were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1972.

The Bichon Frise is celebrated for its merry, cheerful, and gentle disposition. They are naturally sociable and love to be the center of attention, thriving on human companionship. Bichons are playful and curious, retaining a puppy-like enthusiasm throughout much of their lives. They are known for their sudden bursts of energy, often called “Bichon blitzes” or “zoomies,” where they’ll tear around the house or yard with delight.

These little dogs are affectionate and form strong bonds with their families. They are generally good with children and get along well with other dogs and pets, especially if socialized from a young age. While intelligent and trainable, they can also have a mischievous and sometimes manipulative side, using their charm to get their way. They are sensitive and do not respond well to harsh training methods. Because they are so attached to their people, they can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.

The Bichon Frise’s distinctive fluffy white coat requires significant grooming to keep it looking its best and to prevent matting. They have a double coat: a soft, dense undercoat and a coarser, curly outercoat. While they are considered low-shedding (shed hair gets caught in the curls), this means mats can form quickly if not brushed out regularly.

Daily brushing is highly recommended. Many owners opt for professional grooming every 4-6 weeks for bathing, clipping, and scissoring to maintain the characteristic “powder-puff” look. Regular attention must be paid to cleaning around their eyes to prevent tear staining, which is common in white dogs. Ears should be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent infections, and nails trimmed as needed. Dental care is also important for this breed.

Bichons Frises have moderate exercise needs. They are playful and enjoy activity but do not require extensive, strenuous workouts. Daily walks, coupled with indoor or yard playtime, are usually sufficient to keep them happy and healthy. They love to participate in family activities and will enjoy games of fetch or learning new tricks.

Their characteristic “Bichon blitzes” – short, intense bursts of running – are a common way for them to expend energy. While they enjoy being active, they are also content to be lap dogs and cuddle with their owners once their exercise needs are met. Due to their small size, they can adapt well to apartment living, provided they get enough daily activity and mental stimulation.

Bichons Frises are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions. Responsible breeders will screen their breeding stock for these issues. Potential health concerns include:

• Allergies: Skin allergies (atopy) to fleas, pollen, or food are common and can cause itching and skin infections.
• Bladder Stones and Infections: Bichons can be susceptible to forming bladder stones.
• Patellar Luxation: Dislocation of the kneecap, common in small breeds.
• Dental Issues: Prone to tartar buildup, gum disease, and early tooth loss if dental hygiene is neglected.
• Cataracts and Other Eye Problems: Juvenile cataracts can occur.
• Hip Dysplasia: While more common in larger breeds, it can still affect Bichons.
• Cushing’s Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism): A hormonal disorder.
• Portosystemic Shunt (PSS): A liver abnormality.

Choosing a reputable breeder who performs health testing, providing a high-quality diet, maintaining good grooming practices (especially dental), and ensuring regular veterinary check-ups are important for a Bichon’s health.

Bichons Frises are intelligent and generally eager to please, which makes them trainable. However, they can also be a bit mischievous and may use their considerable charm to try and get their own way. Positive reinforcement techniques, using treats, praise, and play, work best with this sensitive breed. Harsh methods can cause them to shut down.

Key aspects of training a Bichon include:

• Early Socialization: Expose your Bichon puppy to various people, sights, sounds, and other animals to build a confident and well-mannered adult.
• Positive Reinforcement: Keep training sessions fun, short, and rewarding.
• Consistency and Patience: Especially important for house training, which can sometimes take a bit longer with Bichons. Crate training can be a helpful tool.
• Basic Obedience: Commands like sit, stay, come, and down, as well as good leash manners, are essential.
• Trick Training: Their intelligence and playful nature make them naturals at learning cute tricks.

Puppy classes are highly recommended for socialization and foundational training. With consistent, positive training, Bichons can be delightful and well-behaved companions.