The Bichon Frise, or Bichon, is known to be an incredibly cheerful dog that is very playful as well as intelligent. Bichons love to receive lots of attention, and desire to be the center of that attention. However, they will also bestow that adoration and affection back in their own delightful way. They are quite friendly towards strangers, and seem to befriend all whom they meet. The Bichon is an excellent breed for apartment living as well as for new dog owners. However, obedience training is necessary with Bichons, because they can be challenging to housetrain, and it is recommended to crate train them. Crate training is also required for when owners will be gone, as Bichons frequently get separation anxiety and may exhibit destructive behaviors if left alone for long periods of time. Due to their small size they are quite fragile, and should be monitored especially when around children. Bichons are active dogs and enjoy being played with, and even if they do reside in an apartment they still need regular exercise and mental stimulation. These charming little bundles of cuteness typically weigh 7 to 12 pounds, and are usually 9 to 11 inches tall, with a lifespan of generally 12- 15 years. Bichons have white coats that are soft and dense, and have a lot of texture that makes them difficult to groom. A professional groomer will be required, as the technique to care for a Bichon’s coat can be difficult to learn. While Bichons do shed, this type of fur gets caught in the rest of the coat and needs to be brushed out to keep their coat healthy. This breed can be prone to skin conditions and allergies, so it is important to maintain proper care of these sweet little puppies. Handling them and starting these practices early will make them more accustomed to receiving the care they require. Before purchasing a Bichon, make sure you are prepared for the time commitment and financial responsibility of keeping them healthy and well groomed.
Each dog breed can be prone to develop certain diseases or conditions, be sure to research your specific breed before making a purchase to ensure you are prepared for any challenges that may arise. This information is only a generalization and we make no guarantees on any breed related to personality, appearance, or typical health characteristics.