Bichon Frise: Temperament, Size, Lifespan & Care

Bichon Frise temperament and personality

The AKC describes the Bichon as cheerful, curious and playful, very social and quick to greet strangers, which makes it a poor watchdog. VCA calls the breed friendly, affectionate and playful, and notes that many keep a puppy-like personality into adulthood.

That sociability has a flip side. VCA says a bored Bichon can become vocal and attention-seeking when left alone too often. The breed does best in a home where someone is around for much of the day, or where it has company and a routine that breaks up long absences. A coat that needs brushing down to the skin and long stretches alone are why a slicker brush and a few puzzle toys for small dogs are worth buying early.

How big do Bichons get?

The AKC gives a height of 9.5 to 11.5 inches at the withers and a weight of 12 to 18 pounds, and the same ranges apply to males and females. VCA lists identical figures. Under the coat the Bichon is a sturdy little dog rather than a fragile one.

Because the fluffy coat hides body shape, run your hands along the ribs every week or two. You should feel them easily under a thin layer of fat. Bichons love treats, so count them as part of the daily food total and ask your vet what a healthy weight looks like for your dog.

Bichon Frise lifespan and common health issues

The AKC and VCA both give a lifespan of about 14 to 15 years, with VCA counting a Bichon as a senior from around 11. VCA lists patellar luxation and congenital deafness in puppies; allergic skin disease, dental disease and bladder stones in adults; and joint disease, cataracts and diabetes in seniors. The AKC adds that floppy ears make the breed prone to ear infections.

Ask a breeder about knee, hip and eye checks on both parents and whether puppies have had a hearing test. Ask your vet to look at the teeth at every visit and how to spot early skin allergies. Straining to urinate, blood in the urine or a sudden increase in thirst should be seen by a vet promptly.

Exercise needs

The AKC says Bichons run in short bursts and spend much of the day resting, so they do not need rigorous exercise. VCA rates energy as moderate to high and says daily walks, play and interactive games are usually enough. Two walks a day and some indoor fetch suit most adults.

Bichons are fast and easily distracted, and the AKC notes recall can be difficult. Keep them on a leash or in a securely fenced area outdoors. Mental games, such as hiding treats or learning tricks, tire a Bichon out as well as a long walk does.

Bichon Frise grooming and shedding

Grooming is the main commitment. The AKC says the hair grows continuously and needs a trim every four to six weeks, with daily brushing for a full coat or two to three times a week for a shorter cut. VCA rates grooming needs as high and shedding as low, because loose hair stays in the coat until it is brushed out.

Brush right down to the skin with a slicker brush and finish with a comb, or mats form close to the skin where you cannot see them. VCA also recommends routine tear-stain cleaning. Clean the ears regularly, as the AKC advises, and brush the teeth often, since the breed is prone to dental disease.

Training a Bichon Frise

The AKC calls Bichons intelligent and says they learn basic commands easily and do well in obedience and Rally. VCA says the breed is relatively easy to train with early socialization and positive reinforcement. Short, upbeat sessions with tiny treats work best.

House training can take patience in any toy-sized breed, so use a crate and a regular schedule. Teach the puppy to stand calmly on a table for brushing from the first week, rewarding each step, because it will be groomed every day for the next decade and more.

Are Bichons good with kids and other pets?

The AKC describes Bichons as lively playmates for children and good company for other dogs, large and small. VCA says they are generally good with children and social and adaptable with other pets.

Small size still calls for care. Teach children to sit down to hold the dog, never to carry it around, and to leave it alone when it is resting. Supervise play with large, boisterous dogs, and introduce cats slowly, letting the cat set the pace.

What a Bichon Frise needs at home

Grooming tools come first: a slicker brush, a steel comb, detangling spray, tear-stain wipes, ear cleaner, nail clippers and a dog toothbrush. Budget for a professional groomer every four to six weeks if you do not plan to trim the coat yourself.

For daily life, a small crate for house training, a soft washable bed, a lightweight harness and leash, and puzzle toys or treat balls for time alone cover the basics. Ask your vet about a dental routine early, because good habits are easiest to start in puppyhood.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.