The Bichon is a friendly dog that is easy to care for and enjoys learning new tricks. The Bichon Frise is one of the kindest and most loving dog breeds, with curly white hair that resembles a cotton ball. Because he was formerly adored by royalty and performed circus skills to the roars of the crowds, he craves attention.
In spite of being bred for snoozing, Bichon Frise puppies still need to be exercised and trained. While it's foolish to suggest that you never indulge your Bichon, you should ensure that your training on critical issues like nipping and barking is gentle and constant. A yappy dictator shouldn't be made out of your brave, cheerful dog.
If you have a little Bichon, you may not be able to keep it as a family pet if you have young children or rowdy elderly members. If they're scared, they may even snap at a child and damage themselves if the game gets too harsh.
Despite what you may have heard, the Bichon is not a "non-allergenic" breed because of its non-shedding coat. Allergies to dogs are caused by the skin flakes in a dog's dander, not the fur itself. If your dog has a hairless coat, it means less dander in the air, which can reduce the risk of allergies and other sensitivities. However, Bichon produces dander which might still induce an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to it. You should steer clear of any breeder that claims their canines are "non-allergenic".
Highlights
- Bichons are shrewd and resourceful. For the sake of your Bichon's well-being, obedience training is strongly suggested.
- Proper grooming is an absolute need! Grooming services are not cheap. The skill can be learned by motivated owners, but it is difficult and time-consuming.
- Bichons have a tendency to develop skin and allergy issues.
- Housebreaking a Bichon Frise might be a challenge. Recommendation is use a crate for training
- Bichons dislike being left alone for extended periods of time.
- The puppies of the Bichon Frise breed are so small that they should only be handled by adults.
- It's easy to overprotect a Bichon Frise due to its small size and cuteness. If you do this, your dog will become spoiled, shy, and scared. This is a bad idea. Always keep an eye on your Bichon and educate him how to deal with people, other animals and circumstances by being confident in your own abilities.
- If you want a healthy Bichon, don't buy a puppy from an unscrupulous breeder, puppy mill, or pet retailer. Look for a breeder who undertakes genetic testing on her breeding dogs to ensure that your puppy is free of hereditary disorders and has a good temperament.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
Contrary to popular belief, being small does not imply being an apartment dog. Many little dogs are too bouncy and yappy to live in an apartment. Apartment dogs are quiet, low-energy, tranquil indoors, and courteous of their other residents. This is also a great spot to give your dog extra privacy in your apartment.
Sensitivity Level
Some dogs ignore harsh criticism, while others take even the slightest sneer seriously. Choose one of these breeds if you have a noisy or forceful owner, an unpredictable schedule, or a dog that is easygoing, tolerant, resilient, or even "thick-skinned."
Protective Nature
A dog's ability to notify you of the presence of strangers. There is a greater likelihood that these dogs will respond to any potential threat, whether it is the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. In the event that a stranger enters the house and is accepted by the family, one of these breeds is likely to warm up to the visitor.
Potential for Playfulness
Some dogs never grow out of their puppy stage and are always ready for a game, while other dogs are more reserved and reserved. Consider how many games of fetch or tag your dog can play in a day and whether you have children or other dogs who can play with the dog before making a decision on a puppy or dog.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
The same goes for sheepdogs, who were bred to herd animals and require a high level of intelligence and attention. If a child is bored, they may create their own task, usually with behaviours you dislike, such digging or chewing. Brain-stimulating activities for dogs include agility, search and rescue, training, and interactive dog toys.
Energy Level
High-energy dogs are constantly ready to go. These dogs were initially meant to retrieve game for hunters or herd animals, which takes a lot of stamina. They like activities like running, jumping, and exploring new sounds and smells to keep up with their high energy needs and keep young minds busy.
A low-energy dog is content to sleep all day. For those looking for a dog, consider your lifestyle and whether a spirited dog would be exciting or aggravating.
Easy To Train
The ease with which you can train your dog and the eagerness with which he or she will take to new training methods. When it comes to pets, some breeds are more concerned with pleasing their owners than others.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Are there certain breeds that tend to be more affectionate toward their own family members? It is possible for some breeds to be distant from everyone but their owner, whilst other types treat everyone of their acquaintances as if they were their greatest friends.
Kid-Friendly
How well a dog is able to deal with children's misbehaviour, and how family-friendly it is overall Do not leave your dog unattended when among youngsters under the age of 12 unless you are convinced they are capable of doing so safely.
Dog Friendly
How friendly a dog breed is to other dogs in general. All dog-to-dog encounters and introductions should be closely monitored, but some breeds are inherently more likely to get along with other dogs, whether at home or out in the community.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
In order to live with a dog, one must accept the presence of dog hair in the household and on one's clothing. However, breeds differ substantially in terms of shedding. Depending on the breed, some dogs will shed all year long, while others will only shed during certain times of the year. Selecting a dog breed that sheds less is essential for those who are particular about hygiene. Keeping your house a little cleaner is as simple as using a deshedding tool.
Drooling Potential
When they come over to say hello, slobbery dogs may leave huge wet spots on your clothing and drape slobbery ropes around your arm. Go for it if you don't mind the occasional slobber, but if cleanliness is important to you, opt for a dog that has a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
The frequency with which a breed's coat needs to be brushed, washed, or trimmed. When assessing the grooming effort required, take into account your available resources, such as time, patience, and money. Nail clipping is a must for all dogs, regardless of breed.
Exercise Needs
Taking a night-time stroll with some breeds is a great way to bond with your pet. People who work in physically demanding vocations, such as herding or hunting, need to work out frequently.
These dogs may become overweight and develop unwanted behaviours like barking, chewing, and digging if they are not given regular exercise. These breeds may appeal to dog owners who enjoy being active in the great outdoors or who want to train their dog for a high-intensity canine sport like agility.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
12-18 pounds
Height
9.5-11.5 inches
Life Expectancy
14-15 years
History of Bichons
The Bichon Frise originated in the Mediterranean from the Barbet (a large water dog) and small-coated, white dogs. This cross produced barbichons, eventually reduced to bichons. The four bichon varieties were Maltaise, Bolognese, Havanese, and Tenerife. Historically, Spanish sailors transported the Tenerife to Tenerife, resulting in the Bichon Frise. Tenerife was created on the Canary Island. When Italian sailors brought these dogs back from Sicily in the 14th century, they became pets for the aristocracy.
When the French conquered Italy in the 1500s, they brought their beloved Bolgnese dogs with them. They held a special place in the hearts of Francis I and Henry III. But the breed's popularity in Europe fell for no discernible or understandable reason. Once again, the Bichon returned to favour during Napoleon III's reign in the early 1800s, but it faded away again soon after. Bichons went from being favoured court dogs to street dogs as a result of this change, authoring a new chapter in the history of the breed. Because of their love of magic tricks and willingness to cooperate with peddlers and organ grinders to entertain the public, Bichons were able to thrive.
The little dogs were nearly extinct when WWI began. After the war, only a few French breeders tried to save the Bichon. The FCI recognised the Bichon Frise as a breed in 1933. WWII presented a new threat to the species. It wasn't until the 1950s that its future in America was assured. The breed really gained off in the 1960s, thanks to better grooming instructions and increasing publicity. Originally recognised the breed as a unique entity in 1971.
Temperament and Personality
The Bichon is a lively, curious dog who enjoys life. His pleasant demeanour and humorous demeanour charm everyone he encounters, and his clownish antics entertain most. And he's playful with people and other pets. He craves attention and will accept it all. Both sexes have a nice disposition.
He's a great watchdog. A Bichon will alert you when the neighbours arrive, leave, or the mail is delivered. Help him learn when to bark and when not to so he doesn't become a pest.
These energetic bursts of energy force them to run around the home or yard in a frenzy, barking or growling. They'll use the house as a racetrack, bouncing against furniture in unpredictable patterns. After the blitz, the dog will simply lie down and rest for a few minutes. In addition to playtime with other dogs, a 15-minute daily walk is required if the Bichon is the only dog in the house.
Smart, Bichon. You can teach him any trick you choose as long as you reward him with praise and treats. Keep training sessions enjoyable and brief.
However, Bichon breeders advise that crate training and perseverance are the keys to success in house training this dog. Separation anxiety can develop in Bichons that dislike being left alone at home. Get advice from your puppy's breeder or puppy school teacher on how to avoid it. Perhaps the solution lies in getting him a dog of his own.
Begin training your dog as soon as you get him. Even at eight weeks old, his mind is open and sensitive. Waiting until he's six months old increases the likelihood of an obstinate dog. Enroll him in puppy kindergarten by 10-12 weeks of age so he can meet new people. Remember that some puppy training sessions require current vaccinations (like kennel cough) and that many veterinarians advise against socialisation with other dogs or public exposure until puppy vaccines (including rabies, distemper, and parvovirus) are completed. Begin home training and socialising your dog before he has had all of his puppy vaccinations.
Talk to the breeder and ask for help choosing a puppy. Breeders can provide incredibly precise recommendations once they learn about your lifestyle and personality. If you want a Bichon, search for one whose parents are pleasant and who has been well socialised since birth.
Types
There are four types of modern Bichons. Some treat them as distinct breeds.
- The Bichon Frise or Tenerife
- The Maltese
- The Bolognese
- The Havanese
Care
Bichons are lively dogs that do well in apartments with adequate exercise and play. Never let your Bichon alone for long. Whenever possible, the sensible owner places the Bichon in a container when leaving the house.
Health
However, Bichons are prone to specific health issues like any other breed. If you're thinking about getting a Bichon, you should know about these disorders. If you're buying a puppy, ask the breeder to show you both parents' health certifications. Dogs with health clearances have been tested and cleared of a specific condition.
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) will clear Bichons for hip dysplasia (fair or better), elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and von Willebrand's disease; Auburn University for thrombopathia; and the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF) for normal eyes.
Bladder Problems
This breed is prone to bladder stones and infections. Bladder stones can be caused by consuming too much protein, magnesium, and phosphorus, or by not urinating frequently enough. Bladder infections can be bacterial or viral. Take your Bichon to the vet if he needs to urinate regularly, has bloody urine, or is losing appetite.
Vaccination Sensitivity
This sensitivity affects some Bichons, and many suffer from routine vaccines. Symptoms include hives, edoema, pain, and fatigue. A vaccine-sensitive dog may suffer problems or perish. After the vaccination, keep an eye on your Bichon and call the vet if you see anything unusual.
Allergies
Allergies in Bichons can be caused by contact or dietary allergies. Bichons are also known to be flea-sensitive. If your Bichon is constantly scratching, licking his paws, or touching his face, assume an allergy.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a prevalent condition in dogs. Bichons have a higher incidence than other breeds. Diabetes-stricken dogs require regular insulin injections to manage their sugar metabolism. It's a critical ailment that should be diagnosed and treated promptly. Weight loss and increased eating, drinking, and urination are symptoms. If he develops symptoms, we will run lab testing to diagnose him and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment takes a lot of time and money. Diabetic dogs now live as long as other dogs.
Patellar Luxation
This is a typical condition with little dogs. It's the kneecap. Luxation is anatomical dislocation (as a bone at a joint). Painful sliding of the patellar joint (typically of the back leg) causes patellar luxation. This can be crippling, yet many dogs with this illness enjoy normal lives.
Bleeding Tumor
Hemangiosarcoma is a tumor that affects Bichon Frises more than average. Cancerous tumours of the spleen and other organs are also possible. The tumour rips open, causing internal bleeding. Tumors might grow volleyball-sized or larger before symptoms appear. Have his blood tested and an ultrasound done at least once a year, since we typically uncover signs of one of these cancers.
Hip Dysplasia
The thigh bone does not fit snugly into the hip joint. One or both of a dog's hind legs may be inflamed or lame in some canines while others do not. (Diagnosis via X-ray is the most certain way.) Any of these conditions could lead to arthritis. Make sure the parents of the puppy you're purchasing are clean of hip dysplasia if you're going to acquire one.
Cushing’s disease
Cushing's disease develops when a dog's body produces too much cortisol (or ‘steroid'). This can occur naturally or as a result of long-term corticosteroid use. In either case, an excess in this hormone disrupts normal metabolism. Medication can help control Cushing's disease and allow the dog to live a normal life.
Juvenile Cataracts
Bichon Frise puppies can get cataracts (under six years old). Some people are born with it. Do not be afraid of asking if a breeder's stock has been certified by the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF).
Recommended Health Tests
- Patella Evaluation
- Hip Evaluation
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Nutrition
Recommended daily amount: 1/2 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food, divided into two meals, per day is recommended.
Size, age, build, metabolism, and level of activity all have a role in how much food your adult dog consumes. Dogs, like people, are unique and do not all require the same amount of food. If you have a dog that is constantly on the move, you'll need a lot more food and water. Additionally, the quality of the food you buy for your dog can make a difference. The more nutritious the dog food, the less you'll have to add to your dog's dish to get the same amount of nourishment.
Rather than putting food out all the time, make sure your Bichon gets the nutrition he needs by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day. Make sure he looks and feels his best by conducting a visual and physical assessment.
Look down at him first. A waist should be seen. In this position, lay your thumbs along his spine and your fingers spread outward on his back, with your palms facing each other. With enough pressure, you should be able to feel his ribs but not see them clearly. Unless you can, he'll need to eat less and exercise more.
Urolithiasis, a condition that affects many tiny breeds, is common in Bichons (stones in the urinary tract). This illness can be better managed with dietary changes, such as therapeutic diets and drinking more water.
Grooming
- Grooming is an opportunity to inspect your pet's body for sores or rashes as well as indicators of infection like redness or tenderness on the skin. There should be no redness or discharge in the eyes. Your weekly check-ups will help you catch any potential health issues before they get out of hand.
- The Bichon Frise has a white double coat. The undercoat is velvety and dense, whereas the outside coat is coarse. The clothing stands apart from the torso, like a powder puff. Bichon's most popular trim follows the dog's body lines, leaving the coat long enough to give him a "poufy" look.
- Bichons are known for not shedding, which is untrue. Hairy creatures shed. The shed hair is caught in the undercoat of double-coated Bichons instead of dropping to the floor. Not brushing or combing this dead hair can lead to mats and tangles, which can cause skin problems if not addressed.
- Clean your Bichon's ears regularly. Sometimes it's important to pluck off ear canal hair (a groomer can do this if you're not comfortable). If you observe wax buildup, redness, a bad odour, or your dog scratching and tossing his head, take him to the doctor.
- Every four to six weeks, Bichons are groomed by a professional. Many great books and videos are out there if you want to learn how to groom your Bichon.
- The health and appearance of a Bichon's face are intertwined, therefore it's critical to maintain regular brushing and trimming. If you don't clean the region around your eyes on a regular basis, you could end up with eye problems as a result
- Bichons are a fussy breed. To keep his white coat clean, you'll need to brush him twice a week or more. Before showering, check for mats and tangles. Mats get tighter and harder to remove.
- There are several causes of tearstained clothing, including eye difficulties and food allergies. You should take your dog to the vet if tear staining becomes an issue because Bichons are susceptible to a number of eye disorders. Bichons are prone to tear duct blockage, eyelash growth toward the eyeball, and inward-turning eyelids, all of which can result in lashes rubbing against the eyes. These and other possible causes of tear stains can be determined by your veterinarian.
- The bacteria found in tartar should be removed at least twice weekly by brushing your Bichon's teeth. If you want to avoid gum disease and bad breath, you should clean your teeth every day.
- Trim your dog's nails once or twice a month if they don't wear down naturally. If you hear them clicking on the floor, there are too many. If you clip your dog's nails too short, they have blood vessels and he may not cooperate the following time. If you're not sure how to clip your dog's nails, ask your doctor or groomer.
- When your Bichon is a puppy, begin acclimating him to being brushed and examined. The best way to get to know a dog is to play with his paws and peek into his mouth. With positive reinforcement and praise, you can prepare him to be handled more easily during veterinarian tests and other procedures in the future.
Exercise
- Adult Bichon Frises require 30 minutes of daily exercise to stay alert and energised.
- Makes for a vivacious and alert house dog.
- Taken together, daily walks around the block and active games will suffice to meet the dog's activity requirements.
- Indoor potty training is popular among bichons.
- Dog parks can be beneficial for bichons as long as they are not expected to mix with other dogs that are significantly larger.
- Mental activity is a need, which is why we play games and use trickery.
- Even though it has a thick coat, it is nevertheless sensitive to the cold because of its small size.
Training
- Early socialisation and puppy programmes are advised for all breeds.
- Housebreaking a Bichon Frise is notoriously difficult. However, they are quite easy to train in all other respects.
- Bichons, for example, enjoy tricks and pick them up rapidly. When instruction is centred on pleasant rewards rather than harsh or negative approaches, they respond very well to it.
- If a Bichon is regularly left alone for long periods of time, he is likely to exhibit undesired tendencies.
Children and Other Pets
The Bichon Frise is a great family dog. They enjoy spending time with children, whether playing or just cuddling. They're used to the chaos that comes with kids.
To avoid bites or ear or tail tugging, teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and constantly supervise interactions between dogs and little children. Teach your child to respect dogs' privacy and not interrupt them while they are eating or sleeping. No matter how friendly a dog is, never leave a youngster alone with it.
As long as he gets enough attention from his owner, the Bichon Frise is fine with other dogs. The Bichon must be carefully introduced and educated to other animals.
Puppies
The sight of a Bichon Frise puppy is enough to soften even the hardest of hearts. Playful and friendly, these fluffy balls of fluff have brilliant eyes and a vivid intellect. Additionally, the double coat is hypoallergenic, making it suitable for those with allergies. As a Bichon Frise puppy, he or she will be full of life and eager to please. He'll want nothing more after playtime than to be cuddled and loved. It is possible to acquire a Bichon Frise puppy from a variety of internet retailers.
Puppies can have health problems. Early tooth loss and difficulties from gum infection can occur in Bichons if proper dental care is not prioritised. Other health concerns include allergies, such as skin responses and flea allergies; bladder infections; and ear infections.
With your veterinarian's supervision and consent, you can feed your Bichon Frise high-quality dog food professionally manufactured or home-prepared. Dogs of all ages should be fed a diet that is appropriate for their age (puppy, adult, or senior). Your dog's calorie intake and weight should be monitored because some dogs are more susceptible to obesity.
Dog Breeds related to Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise, Bolgnese, Coton de Tulear, Havanese, and Maltese are all members of the Barbichon family. All hail from the Mediterranean and share a similar physical appearance and demeanour with one other.
