DESCRIPTION
A charming little puffball, the Bichon Frise aims to please and loves being the center of attention. They are small, sturdy dogs with loosely curling double coats consisting of a textured outer layer lined by a fine, soft and silky undercoat, making them practically hypoallergenic. Bichon Frise dogs are typically all white, but can come in cream, apricot or gray variations as well. Their tails curve over their backs. Featuring a merry disposition, the Bichon Frise breed makes delightful and entertaining companions. They are sensitive, affectionate and gentle-mannered. They are very playful and amusing, making them an ideal dog for children that also get along well with other pets.
AKC STANDARD
TEMPERAMENT
Bichon Frise puppies and dogs get along well with practically everybody. They are charming, energetic and love to please their masters. This breed does well with children, the elderly and the disabled. Bichon Frise puppies and dogs can be difficult to house train but they have a self-assured temperament and highly intelligent mind that will eventually grasp the concept. These little dogs do not yap but they are very sociable and enjoy being the center of attention or surrounded by their loving family. They want to go everywhere and do everything with their family and will be easy to live with. With an independent spirit, affection nature and lively disposition, Bichon Frise puppies and dogs are easy to love and seamlessly join the family.
GROOMING
Family pets should frequent a groomer for professional grooming every 4 weeks or so. Bichon Frise puppies and dogs should be bathed every month and groomed between professional visits. Their bodies can be tended to with electric clippers while the rest of the dog should be cared for with scissors. Fur around Bichon Frise puppies and dogs’ eyes is susceptible to staining and requires particular attention. These charming dogs will shed little to no hair and are, therefore, good for anyone suffering from allergies.
HEALTH
Bichon Frise puppies and dogs are fairly healthy. Some common health problems may include epilepsy, autoimmune disease, cancer, skin ailments, blocked tear ducts, bladder problems, cataracts and luxating patellas.
EXERCISE
Other than a daily pack walk, Bichon Frise puppies and dogs can achieve most of their exercise through daily play. These little puffballs of energy will continue to play as long as their families are willing and are more than happy to do so. Bichon Frise dogs also enjoy the freedom to walk or romp in open spaces.
TRAINING
As little dogs, the Bichon Frise breed is susceptible to the human induced behavior of Small Dog Syndrome. This occurs when the dog feels as if he is the leader of the pack and in charge of his humans. Bichon Frise puppies and dogs may exhibit a wide range of behavior problems if this occurs, including separation anxiety, snapping or biting, guarding and excessive barking. Be sure to set the boundaries for this little dog and establish yourself as the pack leader. It should also be noted that Bichon Frise puppies and dogs are difficult to house train. Crate training Is more Important for these little dogs because of the housetraining difficulty.
STAFF CONSENSUS
Bichons are great little companion dogs if you don’t mind a dog that will want to be with you all the time. Some people will run agility with their Bichon Frise which could be an option for people that are looking for a little dog but still want to compete in some kind of an activity. Here at Turd Herders, we like the looks and personalities of Bichons. They are a good dog for people that have children and that live in a small house or apartment as well as a larger home. They are just as happy sitting on the couch, or your lap, as they are running around playing. If you are going to get a Bichon Frise just be prepared to spend extra time on housetraining. They are very smart and will take to obedience training well. As with all dogs, consistency is key in training. Small Dog Syndrome is a very real danger with this dog. Remember that your Bichon is a dog and treat them like a dog, not a human, and you’ll be sure to avoid this issue. Contact us with your Bichon training and care needs. Turd Herders, (603) 965-2259.
