Dog breed · Non-sporting / Utility
Bichon Frise
A cheerful white companion that suits apartments and families, provided the coat is professionally maintained.
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Breed characteristics
- Group
- Non-sporting / Utility
- Origin
- Mediterranean / Spain and France
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 5–8 kg (11–18 lb)
- Height
- 23–30 cm
- Lifespan
- 14–16 years
- Coat
- Curly, soft, low-shedding double coat
- Temperament
- MerryAffectionatePlayfulAdaptable
History
A bichon-type dog carried on Mediterranean trade routes and long favoured by European courts.
Appearance
Round, powder-puff outline, pure white with dark eyes and nose.
Exercise and activity
Thirty to sixty minutes daily plus play.
Care and grooming
Brush daily and groom every four to six weeks; the coat mats quickly and painfully.
Health considerations
- Allergies and atopic dermatitis
- Bladder stones
- Patellar luxation
- Dental disease
- Cataracts
Honest challenges
Before choosing a Bichon Frise
- Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
- Check your routine can support the activity described here: Thirty to sixty minutes daily plus play. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
- Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Allergies and atopic dermatitis, Bladder stones, Patellar luxation, Dental disease, Cataracts), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime.
- Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- Dogs Trust — dog care, behaviour and welfare advice