The Bichon Frise (pronounced Bee-shon Free-zay) is one of the world’s great personality dogs. With his dark, inquisitive eyes and pep in his step, he looks like a child’s toy brought to life. He is famous for his pure white, hypoallergenic coat that is cut into a rounded “powder puff” shape, making his head look like a dandelion gone to seed.

But don’t let the frou-frou haircut fool you. The Bichon is a sturdy, resilient little dog. He is not a fragile lap ornament. He is an active, intelligent companion who loves to perform. He has a history of being a street performer and a sailor’s companion, which explains his adaptability and love of adventure.

History and Origin: The Sailor’s Dog

The Bichon Frise is part of the ancient Barbichon family of dogs (which includes the Maltese, Havanese, and Bolognese). These small white dogs originated in the Mediterranean. Spanish sailors took them on their voyages as trade items and companions. They were bartered in ports around the world. In the 14th century, Italian sailors rediscovered the breed on the Canary Island of Tenerife. They brought them back to Europe, where they became the favorites of French and Italian nobility. King Francis I and King Henry III of France were huge fans. They were often carried in baskets around the royal necks.

However, fashion is fickle. By the late 19th century, the Bichon had fallen out of favor with the rich and ended up on the streets. But the little dogs were survivors. Because of their intelligence and charm, they found work with street entertainers and organ grinders. They learned to walk on their hind legs and perform tricks for coins. After World War I, French breeders took an interest in the breed and worked to stabilize it. The name “Bichon Frise” (meaning “curly lap dog”) was adopted in 1933.

Physical Characteristics

The Bichon is a small but sturdy dog.

• Height: 9.5-11.5 inches (24-29 cm).
• Weight: 12-18 pounds (5-8 kg).

Distinctive Features

• Coat: The breed’s glory. It is a double coat. The undercoat is soft and dense; the outer coat is coarser and curly. It stands away from the body, giving the dog a plush feel. It is hypoallergenic and non-shedding.
• Color: White. Shadings of cream, apricot, or buff are allowed in puppies but usually fade.
• Eyes: Round, black or dark brown, and set to look straight ahead. The skin around the eyes (halos) is black, accentuating the expression.
• Tail: Plumed and carried cheerfully over the back.
• Expression: The breed standard calls for a “soft, dark-eyed, inquisitive expression.”

Temperament and Personality: The Optimist

The Bichon assumes that everyone he meets is his best friend.

The Clown

He loves to be the center of attention. He will perform tricks, do the “Bichon Blitz” (zoomies), and generally act silly to make you laugh. He is a happy dog who rarely has a bad day.

The Companion

He hates to be alone. He suffers from severe separation anxiety if left for long periods. He needs to be with his people.

The Watchdog

He is alert and will bark to announce visitors, but he is not a guard dog. He is more likely to lick an intruder than bite him.

Training and Exercise Needs

Exercise

The Bichon has moderate energy.

• Daily: A daily walk and some indoor play are sufficient.
• Blitz: Be prepared for the “Bichon Blitz.” Suddenly, for no reason, he will run in frantic circles around the house, banking off the furniture. This lasts for about 30 seconds, and then he collapses.

Training

He is smart but can be tricky.

• Housebreaking: This is the breed’s Achilles’ heel. Bichons are notoriously difficult to housebreak. Crate training and extreme consistency are required.
• Tricks: He loves to learn tricks. It engages his mind and his love of applause.

Health and Lifespan

Bichons are a healthy, long-lived breed, often living 14 to 15 years or more.

• Allergies: Skin allergies are very common. They can be allergic to food, fleas, or pollen.
• Bladder Stones: They are prone to developing stones. A special diet and plenty of water are important.
• Patellar Luxation: Slipping kneecaps.
• Cataracts: Juvenile cataracts can occur.

Grooming and Care

The Bichon is high-maintenance.

• Brushing: Daily brushing is mandatory. The curly coat traps dead hair and mats easily. Once a mat forms near the skin, it is painful to remove.
• Clipping: Unless you learn to do it yourself, you will need to pay a professional groomer every 4-6 weeks. The “show cut” is difficult to maintain; most owners opt for a “puppy cut.”
• Bathing: Monthly bathing to keep the coat white.
• Tear Stains: The white face shows tear stains. Wipe the eyes daily.

Nutrition

Bichons can be prone to bladder stones.

• Diet: Some vets recommend a diet that maintains a specific urine pH to prevent stones.
• Water: Encourage drinking.

Is a Bichon Frise Right for You?

The Bichon is a joy to live with, but he requires time and effort.

Yes, if:

• You want a happy, affectionate lap dog.
• You have allergies to dogs.
• You are home most of the day.
• You are willing to commit to daily grooming.

No, if:

• You work long hours.
• You don’t want to pay for professional grooming.
• You want a dog that is easily housebroken.
• You want a quiet dog.

For the person who wants a cheerful, loving, and entertaining companion, the Bichon Frise is the perfect little white shadow.