Bichon Frise

10-15 lbs
9-11"
France
Tenerife Dog, Bichon Tenerife, Bichon a Poil Frise

 This snowy-white, baby doll-faced breed is one that has been a favorite for many generations. The Bichon Frise is a small dog with fluffy white fur and a very bouncy personality. Back in the 14th century when they were first introduced to the country of Europe, the Bichon became court companion dogs to the royalty of that time; specifically, a favorite to King Henry III who actually carried the little dogs around in a special basket that hung around his neck. No one really knows where the Bichon Frise originated from, some believe it was from the Canary Islands brought back by French sailors, while others think that the Italians were actually the ones to discover the fluffy white dogs first. Regardless of who actually brought the dogs to Europe, they became a hit almost immediately. These dogs are well known for their cheerful personality and charming spirit. There is nothing that a Bichon Frise loves more than to be the center of attention! This is one reason why, on top of being great companions for the royal family, they also made wonderful show dogs. Now, these dogs are still used as show dogs and companions.

purpose Purpose
companion, performer
history Date of Origin
ancient times
ancestry Ancestry
barbet, water dog

Bichon Frise Health

Sketch of Bichon Frise
Average Size
Male Bichon Frise size stats
Height: 9-11 inches Weight: 11-16 lbs
Female Bichon Frise size stats
Height: 9-11 inches Weight: 10-15 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Patellar Luxation
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Dental Disease
  • Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Minor Concerns
  • Cataract
  • Urolithiasis
  • Allergies
  • Tooth Loss
  • Hemophilia
  • Atopic Dermatitis
  • Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Occasional Tests
  • Eye
  • Blood
  • Knee
  • Heart
  • X-Rays
  • Dental Examination
  • Allergy Tests

Bichon Frise Breed History

The Bichon Frise (pronounced bee-SHAN-free-ZAY) was originally dubbed a “Barbichon” which was then shortened to “Bichon” which literally means “curly coat” in French. There are four distinct groups of Bichons: the Bichon Maltais, the Bichon Bolognese, the Bichon Havanese, and the Bichon Tenerife. As well, the Coton de Tulear is thought to have ties. All of these dogs are believed to have originated in the Mediterranean. When they first came to Europe in the 14th century the Bichon Frise dogs were royal companions and much loved for their playful yet cuddly personality. In fact, the King adored them so much he owned many of the breed and carried his favorites in a basket that hung around his neck. Around the 19th century however, the playful breed was used for their intelligence and charm as performers. They worked either as companions to street peddlers or even in the circus as show dogs. The Bichon Frise had become a common dog at that time and fell out of favor with the royalty. Thankfully, their intelligence and positive spirit saved them from becoming extinct altogether. After World War I, some French breeders became very interested in the Bichon Frise and preserved the breed, which was then adopted by the International Kennel Club of France in 1933. Because of this, the fluffy white breed became popular once again and moved on to the United States in the year 1956. Now, the Bichon Frise is used as a companion dog and a showman. They are excellent family dogs, and while they can get a bit nippy when nervous, they do wonderfully around kids and other pets as long as the Bichon is well socialized at a young age.  The Bichon Frise Club of America was recognized by the AKC in 1975.

Bichon Frise Breed Appearance

The Bichon Frise shows his happy, jovial personality through a fluffy white coat, plumed tail, and shining black eyes. While this breed is small, they are sturdily built and have no trouble maintaining a proud and balanced posture. The fur of a Bichon Frise is double-coated, very dense, and soft with a substantial feel to it. Such a poufy appearance comes from the hairs standing away from the body and a signature trim that follows the dog’s lines. This coat requires careful grooming to ensure that the brilliant white stays white and the fluffy fur doesn’t tangle. While it is true that the Bichon Frise doesn’t shed much, all animals that have fur will shed a little. The difference with this breed is that the shedding fur is captured within the underlayer or the double coat. If it remains there for too long (from lack of brushing) the poufy fur can become matted. A black nose and dark lips complete the friendly face of this little dog and it is difficult not to fall in love with the happiness that shines from the playful breed’s inquisitive expression.
Appearance of Bichon Frise
Eye Color Possibilities
brown Bichon Frise eyes
Brown
Nose Color Possibilities
black Bichon Frise nose
Black
Coat Color Possibilities
white Bichon Frise coat
White
cream Bichon Frise coat
Cream
Coat Length
coat
Short Medium Long
Coat Density
coat density
pin
Sparse Normal Dense
Coat Texture
coat texture
Bichon Frise curly coat texture
Straight Wiry Wavy Curly Corded

Bichon Frise Breed Maintenance

Even though the Bichon Frise doesn’t shed very much, the grooming regime is not for the faint of heart. This is because, due to the double coat and white color, the owner of this breed will need to brush their dog at least twice a week and give him a bath any time that he gets dirty. It is important to brush your dog before bathing in order to remove any mats or tangles that may be lurking in the fur, otherwise the mats will get tighter during the bath and be nearly impossible to brush out. Besides regular brushing and grooming, it is advised to check your dog’s ears often and check that they are clean and free of any wax build up. With this breed it is sometimes necessary to pluck any stray hairs that are farther down within the ear canal. This is because wax build up and mites cling to hairs lower within the ear and can cause redness and irritation. If you are not comfortable with plucking the hairs in your Bichon’s ear, a professional groomer can do it for you. Finally, it is important to keep the face of your Bichon clean. Because of the long hairs around the mouth and eyes, mucus and discharge from the eyes can leave stains and cause eye problems if left unchecked.

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Brushes for Bichon Frise
Pin Brush
Pin Brush
Comb
Comb
Scissors
Scissors
Clipper
Clipper
Nail Clipper
Nail Clipper
Brushing Frequency
fur daily fur weekly fur monthly
Bichon Frise requires weekly brushing
Daily Weekly Monthly

Bichon Frise Temperament

This breed has an extremely cheerful and merry temperament, which makes him a wonderful companion dog. Bichon’s love to be loved and have a huge desire to be the center of attention. They are playful, friendly, and very optimistic. Despite the fact that this dog has an independent streak, he hates to be alone. If left by himself for many hours, the Bichon is known to suffer from separation anxiety. But, the moment that you come back he will be his happy, playful self again. This breed is extremely intelligent and a quick learner, so training does not require too much effort. The Bichon Frise is a great family dog because they are good with kids and other pets. However, it is important to remember that all dogs need to be socialized appropriately at a young age. If not, and the dog gets a bit nervous, he will have the tendency to bark and possibly nip at a child or other animal. Besides this, the breed is not aggressive. They were designed to be companion dogs and that is what they are. Extremely happy and upbeat, your day will most likely be brighter if a Bichon Frise is around.

Activity Level
low activity medium activity high activity
Low Medium High
Rec. Walk Mileage Per Week
7 miles
walk mileage
Minutes of Activity Per Day
30 minutes
activity minutes

Bichon Frise Food Consumption

Cups Per Day
1 cups
cup per day cost
Daily Cost
$1.00 - $1.00
food bowls daily cost
Monthly Cost
$25.00 - $30.00
food bag monthly cost

Bichon Frise Height & Weight

6 Months
Sketch of Bichon Frise at six months
Male Bichon Frise size stats at six months
Height: 4.5 inches Weight: 5.5 lbs
Female Bichon Frise size stats at six months
Height: 4.5 inches Weight: 4.5 lbs
12 Months
Sketch of Bichon Frise at 12 months
Male Bichon Frise size stats at 12 months
Height: 6.5 inches Weight: 8.0 lbs
Female Bichon Frise size stats at 12 months
Height: 6.5 inches Weight: 7.0 lbs
18 Months
Sketch of Bichon Frise at 18 months
Male Bichon Frise size stats at 18 months
Height: 9.0 inches Weight: 12.5 lbs
Female Bichon Frise size stats at 18 months
Height: 9.0 inches Weight: 11.5 lbs

Top Bichon Frise Breeders

Check out who made our list for the most reputable Bichon Frise breeders of 2024.
Top Bichon Frise breeder She Bichons and Cotons
She Bichons and Cotons
San Diego, California
Top Bichon Frise breeder Simply Patchwork
Simply Patchwork
Marshall, Texas
Top Bichon Frise breeder Hollyhock Bichons
Hollyhock Bichons
Valley Center, California
Top Bichon Frise breeder Merryell Bichons Frises
Merryell Bichons Frises
Ridgefield, Washington
Top Bichon Frise breeder Takoda Dogs
Takoda Dogs
Michigan City, Indiana
Top Bichon Frise breeder Legend Bichons
Legend Bichons
Citrus Heights, California
Top Bichon Frise breeder Barb's Bichons
Barb's Bichons
Apple River, Illinois
Top Bichon Frise breeder Doriann Bichons
Doriann Bichons
Long Island City, New York
Top Bichon Frise breeder God's Creatures
God's Creatures
Apple Valley, California
Top Bichon Frise breeder Companions From Heaven
Companions From Heaven
Belgrade, Montana

Bichon Frise Owner Experiences

Lola
12 Months
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Play
This is my first one. She’s is lovable,playful, stubborn & very sensitive.
6 years, 10 months ago
10 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Learn a new trick
Laying in the sun
Agility
I had a Bichon as my childhood dog and he couldn't have been better for me. He was amazingly eager to learn tricks just in return for affection. He would learn homemade agility courses and other tricks. He was not really well socialized so he would be awkward with other dogs and usually try to pee on them. He got into trouble a lot (trash cans etc) because he was so smart and always needed mental stimulation. Amazingly affectionate with our family and everyone else.
6 years, 9 months ago
3 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk
The Bichon Frise I walked was very timid at first when I met him, but warmed up to me quickly when I got down on his level and let him come to me! He was very high-energy on the walk, and was an excellent walker.
6 years, 9 months ago
5 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
Sniffing
Running
Tricks
Fetch
These guys are the cutest lap dogs ever. I walked a Bichon that loved doing tricks. She definitely has a mind of her own and wanted to go a certain way. She was great with other dogs
6 years, 9 months ago
3 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Cuddling
The Bichons I've walked have been very affectionate. They love to be pet before a walk.
6 years, 9 months ago
2 Months
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Playing tug of war
swimming
I had a recurring walk (drop in visit) with a bichon fries puppy of 8 weeks M-F for about 3 months. He was a high energy puppy that would get mischevious and get into things he shouldn't. But he had a great personality and was relatively easy to train. He got ear infections often and had a sensitivity towards grass that made his skin itchy. Its a high maintenance breed and their grooming needs are a tad excessive but it is a playful, gentle natured breed.
6 years, 9 months ago
1 Year
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
socializing
Playing with toys
I regularly walk a shih-tzu/Bichon mix and she is darling! She is extremely smart and still a puppy but is highly trained. I've walked a few other Bichons or Bichon mixes and have found that they always surprise me with their athleticism.
6 years, 9 months ago
12 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
cuddle
Walk
Sleeping
I had a bichon frise mix. He wasn't good with kids but fine with adults. He loved to cuddle and sleep a lot. He liked his walks and playing in the snow and water. His hair needed constant maintenance.
6 years, 9 months ago
Three Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
cuddle
I always look forward to walking bichon's because they are so friendly and fun to walk. They tend to be a little tense around other dogs, although they enjoy their company, these dogs can be kind of loud and "barky". They are super sweet and gentle dogs, eager to please and want to rule the roost!
6 years, 9 months ago
2 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
training
Tricks
Such a fancy looking pup, my mother owned one and I've personally walked many in my time being a dog walker and one thing they all had in common was that beautiful fresh grooming they get. A lot of people who own the Bichon Frise tend to have a regular ritual of grooming them anywhere from once to twice a week. They are super friendly and love to receive attention as much as they like to give it. If you have them at a young age you can even teach them many tricks. They are super fast learners and respond well to agility training. They are very focused and have the tendency to catch on quickly to commands. I would say they are high in energy which really adds onto the whole "easy to train factor" when you channel their excitement the right way. When it's time to kick up your feet and relax they make great lap dogs often snuggling to your side or even up to your neck if you're laying down. They make great candidates for photography as well, often I find my best pictures come from a well posed Bichon. Overall I would recommend this dog to anyone looking to impress your neighbor ;) A couple of paw beg's and maybe a jump around a training coarse will definitely leave the audience both swooned and in awe. They make great dogs for the elderly as well since they're so small and obedient they often will have no problem keeping grandmum or pop company without being in the way.
6 years, 9 months ago
5 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
This dog was extremely well behaved. loved exercise, lots of energy and lots of fun. She loved walking and meeting other dogs, loved having attention on her and loved smelling the ground. I had no problems with her whatsoever and would happily walk this type of dog again. I love this breed!
6 years, 9 months ago
5 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Go to Park
Play
lickin
pets
Was timid at first when I entered house without owner there. Within 2 minutes was licking my face and jumping around ready to go on walk. Very energetic when outside running every which way. Is very prancy and likes showing off! Loves playing and cuddling but unsure about quick/sudden movements, would get a little bit startled. As far as attitude towards food would pretty much take it or leave it. LOVES just getting attention, being pet/talked to.
6 years, 9 months ago
4 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk
Play
Run
Snuggle
sleep
I mostly spend a lot of time around my friend's Bichon, Rocky. He's a very excitable little dog! He likes to run in circles every time he gets excited, which is... often. If we put a cup down in the kitchen too hard, he'll bark and run around. And he does bark a lot too, even if a car goes by too loudly. At the same time, he is so snuggly and affectionate. He has a great time just relaxing on the back of the sofa while my friends and I are watching movies, and his favorite place is in someone's lap. He does need to go to the groomer fairly frequently or he gets a little shaggy, so it's definitely more maintenance than some other dogs, but for a cute little lapdog it's definitely worth it. Training is somewhat suspect - he's a bit willful, but ultimately is a very sweet boy and he'll be still to put his harness on so he can for a walk because he likes going! They're small and generally do bark a lot, but Bichons can be great dogs for beginner dog owners or just people that want a fluffy little lapdog!
6 years, 9 months ago
8 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk
Sniffing
Small, but fierce. Bella would bark and growl as I arrived, protecting her family and her domain from my intrusion. Knowing she was all bark and no bite, I entered anyway. As soon as I grabbed the leash from the closet, Bella was all smiles. Grinning and jumping for joy, she calmed down long enough for me to slip the harness over her head. She marched happily down the street, the queen of her neighborhood. No other dog dared threaten her reign and any who considered it received an earful. She walked tirelessly as long as I let her and when we returned to her home she contentedly asked for - and got - belly rubs. Full of joy, and fond of human company, a Bichon Frise makes a great small pet.
6 years, 9 months ago
2 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk
They are very cute, and have a surprising amount of energy! One that I walk is very stubborn and doesn't want to leave his home to use the restroom. I have noticed a common trend of owners of this breed are less likely to tip.
6 years, 9 months ago
4 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
barking
The Bichon Frise that I walked was a sweet little girl. She was happy to see me and ready for her walk. She let me put her harness and leash on without a problem. She liked to walk but at her own pace. She did not pull or anything at all. She just walked and sniffed around. She liked to bark at other dogs. Nothing too crazy just like a couple barks to let them know she sees them. She was such a sweet heart and I love the little puff ball on their heads. It is so cute, it makes them look almost like something you would see in a fantasy movie. Overall, they are really cute, really sweet, little dogs. They are easy going and very friendly. At least in my experience.
6 years, 9 months ago
16 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
Cuddling
eating
Sleeping
Bichon's are the best dogs! They have hair, not fur. They are super friendly and loving. They love to cuddle and be around people. They love to go on walks. As they get older they tend to have problems, but otherwise they are a great breed to have!
6 years, 9 months ago
3 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I own a Bichon Frise. I have had her since she was 5 months old. Currently, she is 3.5 years old. She is very calm spirited and likes to lounge around, snuggle, and have her belly rubbed, but she can also be playful at times. She is not crazy about exercising. She would eat all day if I let her and loves treats. She will run away when I try to put her leash on because she does not look forward to walks, but once she is on the leash she walks fine. Fairly slowly, and likes to stop occasionally. She doesn’t like to go too far either. She LOVES to chew. She goes through rawhide bones like crazy because they’re the only way I can keep her from chewing on things she’s not supposed to. As a puppy she chewed on furniture, the baseboards of my house, etc. She still likes to chew on things she can get ahold of like socks, underwear, other clothing, stuffed animals. Today she tried to eat a stick of deodorant and a couple days ago she tried to chew an ornament off of our Christmas tree. I try to get her to chew on her bones and chew toys instead. She is not the brightest of dogs, but she is a total sweetheart. She loves to lick people. She is extremely friendly and well mannered with other people. She will want to sit on your lap and have you pet her. She gets along with other dogs really well too. She always wants to make friends with other dogs on walks and she gets along with my other dog, who is a Schnauzer, very well. She loves to play with the Schnauzer, chase her around the yard, she’ll even hide behind a tree and jump out at her occasionally. She love to be outside in all kinds of weather. I groom her frequently because she has very poofy curly fur and likes to play outside, roll around in the leaves, get in the bushes, etc. and gets dirty and stinky fairly easily. She likes to chase rabbits and has even caught a few because she is very fast. She does not like when people play with her tail, but she loves to be held (even like a baby) and is very much an attention hog. She LOVES attention! Overall, a very sweet and affectionate dog, with a bit of a chewing problem, in my case, anyway.
6 years, 9 months ago
1 Year
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Explore the city
Sniffing, Walking Around,
Play
Zoey was super sweet and quiet. She didn't bark at other dogs or humans. She was a slow walker though and liked to go at her own pace. She had to be carried across the street though because she wouldn't respond if you called her name or gave a small tug on the leash. She was very inquisitive. She was not aggressive at all and was very sweet. Her owner also mentioned that she had recently moved and was stilled getting used to living downtown and was still unfamiliar with the area.
6 years, 9 months ago
3 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
Running
Sniffing,
Belly rubs
The Bichon Frise I walked was such a sweetie! He was very mellow whenever I would arrive and loved to be pet. He was easy to manage and allowed his harness to be put on with ease. He was super friendly and excited to go on walks! He has a slipped disk in his leg, so he had a limp, but it didn't seem to bother him too much on our walks. He just had to be carried going up and down stairs. Very friendly and enjoyable pup!
6 years, 9 months ago
5 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Run
Off-leash
Play
Chase
Dog-friendly events
Dog Parks
Speak
High Five
I walked Baxter. He is a Bichon Frise. He is small and has a curly coat that seems relatively easy to manage. He is extremely smart, entertaining, and playful. He was shy at first though warmed up. Loved going on walks. Good with other dogs.
6 years, 9 months ago
10 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Chase
Tug-of-war
Bichons are naturally curious dogs and absolutely love people, especially children. The bichon frise I walk is constantly approaching kids, and is always trying to climb up on strollers to sniff and lick their inhabitants. While they get along great with humans of all sizes and small dogs, things can get dicey with bigger dogs. Often they will have a Napoleon complex where they feel the need to snip first to establish dominance. Bichons are also EXTREMELY food-driven and will get into garbage and do almost anything to get food, or charm other people out of their food or dog treats. Grooming is certainly an issue, they need to be brushed at least once a week as well as have their eye boogers pulled off regularly to prevent build up.
6 years, 9 months ago
1 Year
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk
The Bichon Frise that I care for is an extremely affectionate dog. He is always looking to make you happy and be a good walker. He does often want to meet other dogs as he is very friendly, but is easily redirected due to his size. He loves to run around in the parks and explore the leaves. One thing I find great about the Bichon Frise is that they do not bark much from my experience. When they are scared or defending themselves they tend to look for your guidance to be safe. As a small dog they need to be bundled up in the cold weather. When I wlk Bichon Frises they need shorter walks in the snow to stay warm. Using the rain boots for dogs are great for these dogs to keep their paws safe in cold climates. I found the maintenance of the dog was very easy and they do not shed their fur much. They also are pretty relaxed dogs and can hang out on the couch while you work on things if needed. They enjoy their own time as well as love from you. Great cuddler dogs and will lick you all over your face if you let them lay with you.
6 years, 9 months ago
5 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk
Play
Fetch
The Bichon Frise I walked was one of the easiest walks I have ever had. While the owner was a little worried she would have separation anxiety away from the apartment, those worries never materialized. She was a very sweet dog who was just happy to be outside. During the walk she kept putting one foot in front of the other besides when she needed to go potty. Passing other dogs was not an issue, as she didn't even flinch, it was if they were not even there. The frequent look-backs at me with her tail wagging and tongue out let me know that she was having a great time and appreciated our time together. She did not try to pick up any tasty morsels off of the street, electing instead to hold her head high and take in the sights and sounds of Brooklyn. Despite her small size, we were able to cover plenty of ground, ensuring that she was nice and tired when we returned to her owner.
6 years, 9 months ago
3 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk
Sniffing
toys
What cute little nuggets Bichon Frises are! They're so little and wiggly, it's hard not to melt when you meet one! The Bichon Frises that I have walked have all been enthusiastic and adorable, plus they've all had fashionable little coats for the cold which makes them extra irresistible. They're so small and playful that they're pretty easy to guide and walk. They listen well and are super friendly upon meeting new people, and often pretty friendly with meeting other dogs. The biggest thing that they have going for them, in my opinion, is how incredibly CUTE they are! Such a joyful little fluff ball to have around.
6 years, 9 months ago
2 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
barking
Walks
The Bichon Frise I walked was very skittish at first and I had a hard time trying to get her out of the house to start the walk. Once she got use to me she was perfect and did great on the leash. She was scared of other dogs and just barked at them.
6 years, 9 months ago
5 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I have several Bichon Frise. They all have in common that they are adorably stubborn, easily excitable, and incredible cute. They like to lead. They go crazy when they see other dogs. They get on alert when they know another human is around but the knowledge of another dogs in the near by just send them on a frenzy. They will bark loud and intimidatingly. They get all ready to go into combat. Not that they are at all prepared or skilled but their bark is as if they are announcing a challenge, they are fierce though. I have pulled them back when they bark at other dogs and prepare for battle but they do not shy away. They have a bit of delusional confidence and perhaps are not aware of their actual size. They are for the most part very well kept and groomed dogs. Their white coat requires a lot of maintenance . They Bichon Frise I have picked up to walk are well kept and half the time with a bow or glitter or hair dye or clothes. They do not seem to happy in them and try to take the garments off continuously. Even thought they bark like crazy when they hear someone at the door they are not aggressive dogs. They might nip at you if they do not like their leash but their so tiny they hardly do any harm. You cant really negotiate with these dog as even when you loudly and sternly command them to do something they end up doing whatever they want anyway. They are every spoiled. Walking them is another challenge itself. They like to be carried out of their house for walk. They like to be carried down and up the stairs if there are any to walked. Walking two of them is a real feat ! they will tangle the heck out of the leashes. So proper handling is strongly required if you are seriously considering having two or more. Bichon Frise are high maintenance in every sense. They are picky on their food and will have strict diets. Their coat requires a lot of up keeping. They are pampered on their walk and pull a lot. they like affection too. They will demand it and bark until they are noticed. The love back massages and belly rubs. they will just lay there taking it all in. Sweet but definitely sassy dogs. Cute though!
6 years, 9 months ago
12 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
The Bichon frise that I boarded was an older pup; however, the twelve year old was anything but senior. The Bichon frise was so the most energetic older dog I have come across. Because of the Bichon frise’s white coat, this breed requires a good deal of brushing and bathing. The Bichon fries white fur discolors frequently and quickly, so I had to bathe the Bichon fries and wash his mouth after he ate. The Bichon frise was full of energy and loved to cuddle and be pet. The pup was a very good pup that loved playing and getting treats. The Bichon frise had to be carefully watched because he would try to eat anything from the garbage, floor, or from his food bag. Great pup!
6 years, 9 months ago
Toby
9 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
We rescued him from folks who didn’t have time for him. He was left alone a lot and not really socialized. We have had him about 10 months now and he’s so happy. He plays by himself with the mini tennis balls we bought him, runs around funny then tires out. We found he has an enlarged heart and must be on medication for the rest of his life. The Vet says small dogs can get a collapsed trachia. X-rays show his is narrowed. We are watching him closely and he will be rechecked again soon. We keep his faced trimmed short To help his eyes and mouth stay cleaner. He goes to the groomer monthly for a trim. He sleeps a lot. He's very quiet. He is a terrible beggar and loves to eat. We control his portions so he doesn’t get fat. He gets healthy dog treats along with fresh apples and carrots too. He will bark at strange people or dogs and will nip if you try to pet him begore he gets to know you. Once he warms up to you and you feed him a few bits of food he’ll be your friend and sit with you, all the while wanting you to pet him. We must be careful how we pet him because it seem that he gets frisky if pet too much. He also loves to play with rags, towels, his little blanket or anything from the laundry basket. He lives shaking those things and tugging games. When he has his bath and we are drying him off, for some odd reason he is frisky again, wiggling around with the towel. We laughed when we first saw this. He is the first male dog we gave owned so his male behaviors are new to us. We had to break him of lifting his leg on our refrigerator. He is let out in a small fenced yard frequently and walked every morning and evening to relieve himself and do his business. He is very good with our Grandchildren. Of course, we watch them carefully when they are together so no one gets hurt. Although we were skeptical at first about rescuing him, given the stories we were told, we are very happy with our little dog. All he needed was some companionship and love. He’s a sweetie.
6 years, 3 months ago
Abby
12 Years
1 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
naps
I have had my bichon 5 years and groom professionally for about the same
5 years, 10 months ago
Norman Kooper
8 Years
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I did alot of research before deciding he was the right fit. Once I saw his little Teddy bear face and he allowed me to roll him on his back and hold him like a baby,and he remainded calm and just wanted me to rub his belly. (Which I was informed the best way to determine his temperment. As I had a young daughter at the time.) It was fate he was my new furr baby! At the time I had no idea just how much he would affect my life. As a year or so after I brought him to his 4ever home. I become very ill and suffer from debilitating pain that prevents me from living a normal life. (I was in lawenforment and it was extridinary.... It was to be my career. I was always passionate about helping others) However it was not in the cards. My health had takin my dreams. I didn't know what my purpose was anymore. My Kooper never cared I cried or if I could do simply day to day tasks most take for ganted. He stayed by my side and loved me anyways. I can't say life got much better as people turned away from me and my new husband took it as weakness and laid a very well executed plan over the next 7 years to manipulate me and also my daughter. He throughout the years was a terrible person began going to her behind my back (shes age 12 when this starts) and discussing with her things about our marriage, making up arguments to play the good guy and make me look like a liar a person she began to resent. I was oblivious, I was very beyond clinical depression. The husband never once attened a doc appt or surgery. No he let my best friend do it all 3 am ER visits holding my hand and picking up pieces when she could. She was amazing. Anyways later I got some help with my mental health and I realized what was going on. Granted I didn't wake up till he had moved me clear cross country away from my children and allowed me only to be with his family (they just as messed up cult like is a good depict) So I ran packed what I could fit in 5 boxs my by amazing bichon and ran like hell. Left him everything it didn't matter. I needed to get away from all of it was my life on the line. I was secretly planning my death by my own hand. I was writing secrent letters to my children and hiding money away for my final expenses. This novel is dedicated to my amazing Bichon Norman Kooper (koopie) bc he is the one person (he is a person) that never left, he never judged, he never complained when I held him and cried (2 many times to count). He only laid in bed with me for almost 3 yrs. He always loved me, and I told him all my secrets every awful thought all my secret plans why I needed to end the pain. He knew I was tired deep in my soul and he his love and need to love me never wavered not once. If he could speak I have no doubts his furry heart would smile and tell everyone they don't know me and the beautiful disaster I actually am. Yes my daughter and son will no longer speak to me and have cut me from their lives and I haven't spoke to them in over a year bc that is their wishes. I have attempted to reach out. Only to be told they are happier without me. It is earth shatteringly devastation. I saved my life bc I didn't want my children to think I didnt love them enough to stay. Funny how now they wish I was gone! Guess it was Norman Koopers love all along that saved me, bc if this amazing little furr angel loves me enough to always be beside me comforting me and giving me unconditional love. I have to be strong for him and be worthy of his companionship and return the kindness he has so fatefully shown me and tell the story of how this little furry teddybear saved my life. Bc if I had not been givin the honor of having him as bestfriend. Im certian I would not be here he is my hero.... Never underestimate the power of a dogs ability to heal a soul! Truely makes more sure than anything else in life and thats All dogs definitely go to heaven, bc thats where they came from. As I conclude this just wanted to say thank you for letting me tell this very unusual story. Yes its quite a novel but if you have never had the pleasurable experince of sharing your life with these amazing little rays of light. I hope you remember this sad tale and really really consider taking a chance. I promise you will be more than just a little pleased. You will be making the best decision of your life. (PS.. My grandfather gifted my Koopie to me as a Christmas gift after me coming to his house every Sunday for months just to look at his Sunday paper for ads for Bichon puppys. My grandfather is also the most amazing, kind, generous, and beautiful human being I have ever known... Hint, I named Kooper after him. His first name is Norman just like my grandaddy!! I thank him everyday from the bottom of my black little heart.)
3 years, 4 months ago
Eli
1 Year
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He’s 1 year and 7 months old. He’s very energetic, likes to be outside, loves snow, really smart and learns things quickly! He likes kids a lot, but he usually doesn’t like teens and adults. Loves expensive food, but at least he is healthy. He’s not good with most dogs, but this is our fault, we didn’t socialize him enough when he was a puppy because we cared about his health more. Our dog knows more than 20 tricks, soon more than 30! He has muscles and gets a lot of exercise. He also likes to jump a lot. Eli also likes to bark a lot! When he was a puppy he was so playful and he still is. To take care of this breed is difficult if not trained properly. You have to clean his ears, cut his nails, clean the area around his eyes, brush his teeth, brush is fur/coat (everyday or every other day) and many more things. This breed is fun and loyal. It’s worth it, even though it takes more effort!
3 years, 4 months ago
My Cousin Vinny
16 Months
1 People
Condo
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Vinny is my third furbaby - I lost 2 little angels in 2020 - Julio (18 YO) and his little brother Buster (14 YO). I adopted Vinny after Julio died, and Buster died 4 months thereafter- very difficult years
2 years, 9 months ago
COCKY
3 Years
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Doesnt like to be left on his own and he loves playing with children. He never listens only if there is a treat involved in his playing time. He has alot of energy and he like to run away when your not looking.
2 years, 1 month ago
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - Behavior
Question

why do my dog sit on his bum and taps his front paws on the floor

Answer
Book me a walkiee?
Pweeeze!
Sketch of smiling australian shepherd