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Bichon Frise
"The Powderpuff Dog"
History
Like so many dogs from the distant past, the exact origins of the Bichon Frise as well as its genealogy are faded into unrecorded history. Current breed history is based on assumptions, interpretations and extrapolation, derived from bits and pieces of fact and fable. For example, it has been written that there was some small, white dog running around the shores of eastern Mediterranean countries before the time of Jesus Christ and that it was supposedly an ancestor of the Maltese or some Spitz-type dog from which came the Bichon. Then there are those authorities who believe that the Bichon, like the Caniche, came from the Barber or Water-Spaniel, theBarbichon. They write that the name Bichon is a contraction of Barbichon. Through the historical fog comes the theory that these dogs mated with other similar types on the Canary Island of Teneriffe as the result of having been introduced there by Spanish sailors. The legend continues to credit sailors from 1300 onward as responsible for the Bichon's introduction to the European continent where it became popular, lost its popularity, and then gained it back.
Temperament
Bichons are high-energy dogs that become easily excited – especially when visitors come to call – although they do have periods of calmness. They are very playful and active both indoors and out. It's in their nature to please and because of this they are highly trainable. Poorly-bred Bichons may be shy or snappish. They are charming enough to coax most people into playing with them. They are happy, cheerful dogs, affectionate and quite intelligent. Bichons are also very curious dogs capable of getting into mischief when left alone.
Appearance
The Bichon Frise is a small, sturdy dog with a long, full-coated tail that curls upward and is directed toward his back. Soft, dark eyes, nose, and lips emerge almost like coal, contrasting against a light-colored coat that covers the entire body and head with long, fluffy fur. He always has an inquisitive, alert, mostly playful facial expression. His undercoat is soft and dense and his outer coat is somewhat coarser and curly. The coat color is snow white with possible shadings of buff, cream or apricot.
Training
Housebreaking may be troublesome and therefore should be initiated as early as possible. Bichons are high-energy dogs, easily distracted, and therefore must be trained in a quiet, undisturbed area. Anything that moves or makes noise – such as other animals, people, cars, or children playing – will siphon off their attention from obedience lessons. Once they understand what you've taught them, take them to a busy area and reinforce the training by giving the commands amid distractions.
Grooming & Care
The Bichon coat must be brushed and combed out at least every other day, but every day is best in order to avoid tangles and matting, which can be painful to undo. When bathed and brushed, the fur stands off the body maintaining its powderpuff look — the most identifying factor of this breed's appearance. More than most breeds, his coat requires trimming approximately every six weeks and must be scissored to follow the natural outline of the body. The trimming of the Bichon coat requires skill and experience and is best left to a professional groomer.
Health Concerns
Elbow and hip dysplasia occurs in this breed. Bichons are predisposed to allergic dermatitis, diabetes mellitus, idiopathic epilepsy, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and various bleeding disorders.
Famous Bichon Frise
"Oliver the World Famous Bichon Frise," a book aimed at children with chronic illnesses, based on a real dog.
Ideal Owner Activity Level Moderate Schedule Full-time but comes home for lunch Personal Style Playful, Fashion-forward Training Style Firm, Positive, Ready to teach all kinds of tricks, Creative and fun Home Anything goes with enough exercise Children Gentle and respectful kids Experience Not necessary Quick Facts Size Small Grooming High-maintenance - needs daily grooming Exercise High - needs to walk every day, plus some running and play Training Does not respond to harsh methods, Teach tricks, Needs daily practice Temperment Gentle, Friendly, Goofy and playful Challenges Can get yappy without enough exercise or attention. May be reactive to touching or loud noises if not well socialized. Height 9 to 12 inches Weight 7 to 12 pounds Life 12 to 17 years Home Alone Not often or for long - wants to be where you are With Kids Excellent With Strangers Friendly Availability Highly available - check breeders and consider breed-rescues
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Created on May 27, 2014.
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