Italian-Bichon

10-15 lbs
12-15"
Unknown
Bichon Frise
Italian Greyhound

A little watchdog, the Italian Bichon is an alert, loyal and playful companion that can often be confused with a Jack Russell Terrier; despite this misconception the Italian Bichon is actually a mix between the Italian Greyhound and the Bichon Frise. These little dogs have lean long bodies, with sparsely distributed shaggy fur and so may require weekly brushing of their coat. Their origins are a bit of a mystery as, like with many designer breeds, these dogs have only recently emerged on the scene. They make great family companions and do well in all environments and climates. They will better tolerate older children rather than younger children who may not properly handle the dog.

purpose Purpose
Companion
history Date of Origin
2000's
ancestry Ancestry
Italian Greyhound and Bichon Frise

Italian-Bichon Health

Average Size
Male Italian-Bichon size stats
Height: 12-15 inches Weight: 12-18 lbs
Female Italian-Bichon size stats
Height: 12-15 inches Weight: 10-15 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Urolithiasis
  • Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Minor Concerns
  • Cataracts
  • Shaker Dog Syndrome
Occasional Diagnoses
  • Hemophilia
  • Kidney Disease
Occasional Tests
  • Urinalysis
  • Blood Count
  • Ophthalmologic Examination
  • Blood Chemistry

Italian-Bichon Breed History

The Italian Bichon is a relatively new designer breed that almost bares a slight resemblance to a Jack Russell Terrier. These spunky little dogs likely originated during the early 2000's and the exact region of their origin still remains unknown but can be speculated to be North America. An ancient breed said to have been in  existence for over 2000 years, the Bichon Frise is a fluffy, small breed of dog that most likely originated in the Spanish Mainlands and Canary Islands (specifically Tenerife) and was rediscovered during the 14th century. It is sometimes speculated that the breed we know today may also have some connection in France sharing common ancestors with the Barbet and water dogs. In the past, these dogs were favorites of royalty and when favor ran out, mascots for circus acts. Today they are mostly considered companion pets. They were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1972. Archaeological evidence implies that the Italian Greyhound likely originated around Turkey and Greece over 2000 years ago. This small, lean breed is believed to have shared its ancestry with other breeds such as the sighthound. They were originally bred and used to hunt small game animals and possibly vermin such as rats or mice. Today they are mainly companion animals. The Italian Greyhound officially gained its status with the American Kennel Club in 1886.

Italian-Bichon Breed Appearance

Slender, lean and compact best describe the overall appearance of the Italian Bichon. These hybrids tend to have small but long narrow faces, dark brown eyes and ears that are mostly semi-flopped and fine. Their legs are long for a small dog but are often straight and muscular. Their tails are long, sleek and sickle-shaped. Their coats can come in various colors with markings such as apricot or reds. They have a sparse coat that is often shaggy or straight in appearance. Their eyes are dark and express intelligence.

Eye Color Possibilities
brown Italian-Bichon eyes
Brown
Nose Color Possibilities
black Italian-Bichon nose
Black
Coat Color Possibilities
cream Italian-Bichon coat
Cream
fawn Italian-Bichon coat
Fawn
sable Italian-Bichon coat
Sable
white Italian-Bichon coat
White
Coat Length
coat
Short Medium Long
Coat Density
coat density
pin
Sparse Normal Dense
Coat Texture
coat texture
Italian-Bichon straight coat texture
Straight Wiry Wavy Curly Corded

Italian-Bichon Breed Maintenance

The Italian Bichon is very unlike to have the dense, long coat of the Bichon Frise. They are typically seen with coats that are more fine and sparsely distributed throughout their body. If these dogs inherit more of a Bichon coat and appearance then it is possible that they may be hypoallergenic. Their coats can be brushed with a soft bristle brush at least once every 2 weeks as they aren’t really prone to matting but can trap a lot of dirt in their fur. Their teeth need to be cleaned weekly, ears need to be monitored and cleaned regularly and nails need to be trimmed if not worn out. Bathing should be done when needed, but most often, owners can choose to simply use a damp cloth to wipe dirt off their dog.

Brushes for Italian-Bichon
Slicker Brush
Slicker Brush
Scissors
Scissors
Nail Clipper
Nail Clipper
Brushing Frequency
fur daily fur weekly fur monthly
Italian-Bichon requires weekly brushing
Daily Weekly Monthly

Italian-Bichon Temperament

The Italian Bichon is a quite and shy dog when they meet new people but are quite cheery, playful and loving when around their family members. These gentle dogs are good family pets and do well with other pets such as other dogs and cats. They may be okay with children who respect their personal space and aren’t too grabby. However, for the most part, these dogs are not aggressive but rather they may simply get irritated if bothered by young children. These perceptive dogs are easy to train and are very intelligent. Always pleasant to be around, they love to be pampered and always want to be where you are.

Italian-Bichon Activity Requirements

The Italian Bichon is a compact little hybrid that can have bursts of energy throughout the day. These hybrids are best suited to temperate climates but can do well in cool climates if provided with a pet coat. The Italian Bichon is a dog with medium energy levels. They should be walked at least 2 to 3 times a day for about 10 to 15 minutes minimum each time. If your hybrid is young and more energetic, then making them run for about 30 minutes should tire them out. These dogs are social and playful; in order to meet their energy demands, it’s recommended that owners engage their dogs through playtime with toys and interaction with other dogs. These hybrids can get quite anxious and naughty if left alone too long or if bored. Provide mental stimulation for your pet in the forms of dog park visits, swimming and tricks training.

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

Italian-Bichon Food Consumption

Cups Per Day
1 cups
cup per day cost
Daily Cost
$0.90 - $1.00
food bowls daily cost
Monthly Cost
$25.00 - $30.00
food bag monthly cost

Italian-Bichon Owner Experiences

Jonny
1 Year
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Very lively and then has time when he shakes
6 years, 4 months ago
Book me a walkiee?
Pweeeze!
Sketch of smiling australian shepherd