Bichon Frise Breed Profile

Quick Stats for the Bichon Frise Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 9 – 12 inches (23 – 30 cm) ; bitches: 9 – 11 inches (23 – 28 cm)
• Weight: 7 – 12 pounds (3 – 5 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 15 or more years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1972
• Shedding: sheds little or no hair
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); active indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Bichon Frise Breed

The Bichon Frise is an energetic and playful member of the Non-Sporting Group. They are gentle, intelligent, independent, and friendly. They make great family pets and are excellent with children. They also get along just fine with other dogs and pets.

Because of their intelligence they are quite easy to train. And they should be trained to avoid problem behaviors such as obsessive barking and separation anxiety.

History of the Bichon Frise Breed

The exact origin of the Bichon Frise is not certain, but their history goes as far back as the 13th century. In the 16th century, these dogs became quite popular in the courts of French royalty. And sometime in the 19th century, they became popular as circus performers.

Today, the Bichon Frise is mainly a household pet and a great performer in the show ring.

It is believed that the breed is a descendant of the Barbet Water Spaniel and the Poodle.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1972.

The Bichon Frise Breed Care and Grooming

Don’t let their small size fool you, the Bichon Frise still needs plenty of daily exercise. Take them for a walk around the neighborhood, let them run around the yard a few times, or play a rigorous game indoors.

Brushing them every other day should take care of their grooming requirements. You may also need to trim and scissor the white puffy coat on occasion. It is recommended that you have these dogs professionally groomed, preferably monthly.

The Bichon Frise does not really shed. However, their hairs can become loose and get tangled in the coat, creating mats, so just be on the lookout for those. Some would say that they are hypoallergenic dogs.

Health Problems of the Bichon Frise Breed

The average life expectancy of the Bichon Frise is about fifteen years, but they can live longer.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• allergies
• Cushing’s disease
• patellar luxation

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• can be sensitive to flea bites

Veterinarians recommend having the Bichon Frise tested specifically for hip dysplasia, knee dysplasia, and eye problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

Bichon Frise (Barron's Dog Bibles)

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