Bichon Frise
Quick Summary
Intelligent, affectionate companion requiring dedicated grooming care. Ideal for involved owners seeking a cheerful, adaptable pet. Consider grooming commitments and social needs.
Contents
Weight Range
12-18 lbs
♂ Male: 12-18 lbs
♀ Female: 12-18 lbs
Height Range
24-29 inches
♂ Male: 10-12"
♀ Female: 10-12"
Life Expectancy
14-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #75
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Non-Sporting Group
Originally bred for Developed in the Mediterranean region during the 13th century as companion dogs for nobility
Popularity
#46
Very popular breed choice
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 9.5"-11.5" |
| Female Height | 9.5"-11.5" |
| Male Weight | 12-18 lbs |
| Female Weight | 12-18 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($2000-$3000) and supplies. Monthly expenses cover premium food, grooming ($50-$100), and preventive healthcare. Additional costs for regular professional grooming sessions.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Cheerful and affectionate temperament with moderate energy levels. Displays excellent social behavior with family, children, and other pets. Requires consistent attention and interaction to prevent separation anxiety.
Social Needs
Highly social breed requiring substantial daily human interaction. Generally friendly with other dogs and pets. Can develop anxiety if left alone for extended periods, making regular companionship essential.
Breed Overview
Graceful and compact, the Bichon Frise showcases a white powder-puff appearance with a soft, dense coat that forms a rounded silhouette. Their dark, inquisitive eyes and black nose create an endearing expression, while their plumed tail curves gracefully over their back. Naturally cheerful and gentle-natured, these dogs combine aristocratic bearing with a merry, playful disposition.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Hypoallergenic coat
- ✓ Excellent companion dog
- ✓ Good with children
- ✓ Adaptable to different living situations
- ✓ Long lifespan
- ✓ Cheerful personality
Cons
- ✗ High grooming maintenance
- ✗ Can be expensive to maintain
- ✗ Prone to separation anxiety
- ✗ Regular professional grooming required
- ✗ May be difficult to housebreak
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Playful, Curious, Peppy |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Agreeable |
| Grooming Needs | Specialty/Professional |
| Shedding | Infrequent |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 30-45 minutes of daily exercise through moderate walks, indoor play sessions, and interactive games. Activity intensity should be moderate, with a mix of physical and mental stimulation to maintain their peppy disposition.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 1-1.5 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for dental health and weight management. Small, easily digestible kibble recommended for this breed.
Feed 1-1.5 cups of premium dry dog food daily, divided into two meals. Choose age-appropriate formulas with proper protein levels. Monitor weight carefully as breed can be prone to obesity.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adaptable to apartment living with sufficient exercise. Thrives in both urban and suburban settings. Temperature-controlled environments preferred due to their sensitive coat.
Minimal space requirements make them suitable for apartment living. Adapts well to various environments but needs indoor access. Thrives in both small and large homes with regular exercise opportunities.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Mediterranean sailors brought these small white dogs to various ports, where they became favorites of nobility. French aristocrats particularly cherished them, leading to their refinement as the Bichon Frise we know today.
Historical Purpose
Developed in the Mediterranean region during the 13th century as companion dogs for nobility. Favored by French aristocrats for their charming personality and elegant appearance.
Fun Fact
Known as 'powder puff' dogs, Bichons performed in circuses during the Renaissance period!
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Professional grooming needed every 4-6 weeks. Daily brushing required to prevent matting. Regular exercise and companionship essential for emotional well-being.