Bichon Frise Dogs
With compact bodies, baby-doll faces, and fluffy white hair, Bichon Frise are a very appealing breed
whose looks are enhanced by a perky, good-natured disposition.
They are often mistaken for white poodles.
Bichon Frise Dogs are Happy Active Trainable Intelligent
Quick Facts
Adult Size
- 9 - 11 inches
Ideal Human Companions
- Active singles and families
- Nursing homes
- Ideal apartment dog
- No large yard needed
- Loves to go on walks
Trademark Traits
- Lively and affectionate
- Great personality
- Doesn't like to be left alone for long periods of time.
- Intelligent and Cunning
- Loves to be with companion
- Playful
- Loves to play games
- Energetic
- Enjoys learning tricks
What They Are Like to Live With
If you’re looking for a wonderful family pet, consider the Bichon Frise. This dog loves to play. He’s always happy (except when left alone for long periods of time), and his demeanor is affectionate and gentle.
Because of their small size, Bichons are good pets for people who live in apartments. But they do have a lot of energy, and they need daily exercise, including walks and games.
Another activity that brings out the best in the Bichon is therapy work. Because they’re gentle and sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face, they make perfect therapy dogs for visits in nursing homes and hospitals.
Things You Should Know
Because they don’t shed like other breeds, Bichons often are recommended for people with allergies. This is something you should discuss with your allergist since not everyone reacts the same way to a Bichon. Before making a commitment to getting a Bichon — or any type of dog — be sure to spend some time in the presence of the breed if you have allergies.
Bichons don’t just like to be with their families, they need to be with their families. They adjust well to a variety of lifestyles, as long as they don’t have to spend too much time alone.
brings out the best in the Bichon is therapy work. Because they’re gentle and sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face, they make perfect therapy dogs for visits to nursing homes and hospitals.
Bichon Frise History
As with many dog breeds, the exact origin of the Bichon Frise is uncertain. Common belief holds that the Bichon descended from the Barbet, a medium-sized, woolly water dog and that the word Bichon is derived from barbichon, which is the diminutive of the word barbet. The Barbichon family of dogs includes the Bichon Frise, the Bolognese, the Coton de Tulear, the Havanese, and the Maltese. All originated in the Mediterranean and have a similar look and disposition.
The Look of a Bichon Frise
Bichons are always white (although puppies may be cream or pale yellow), with black eyes and black noses. Their arched necks give them a proud, confident look, while their well-plumed tails curve gracefully over their backs.
Bichons may be small dogs — large specimens reach barely a foot in height — but they’re hardy. Despite their diminutive size, they’re not classified as a Toy breed by the American Kennel Club; instead, they’re members of the Non-Sporting Group.