Origin
Belgium/France
Lifespan
12–15 years
Weight
5–10 kg
Height
— cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
White
Bichon Frisé
About This Breed
The Bichon Frisé is a small, sturdy, white powder-puff dog with a cheerful disposition. Developed around the Mediterranean, they were historically popular with European noblemen. Their double coat—a soft, silky undercoat and a curly, coarser outer coat—is hypoallergenic and doesn't shed much. Bichons are gentle, sensitive, and adaptable, thriving in many living environments and getting along with children and other pets.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Bichon Frisé
Origin
| Origin | Belgium/France |
| Group | Toy |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 5–10 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Colors & Patterns | White |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Cheerful · Gentle · Sensitive · Playful · Affectionate |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Coat care can take more time. Check for tangles and choose a brushing routine that suits the coat.
Usually sheds relatively little. Low shedding does not mean an animal cannot cause allergies.
Living together
Often adjusts to changes fairly well, though a gradual introduction still helps.
Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.
Often gets along with other pets. Introduce them gradually rather than assuming they will be friends.
Training and activities
Practice in short sessions and reward the behavior you want.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
The Bichon Frise (pronounced BEE-shon Free-ZAY) is a small dog breed that’s a playful and affectionate member of the non-sporting group. Good with children and friendly with other dogs, Bichons are curious and enjoy meeting new friends. Despite their big personality, the Bichon Frise stands just under 1 foot tall and weighs an average of 12–18 pounds. Because they don’t shed as much as other dog breeds, they are considered to be a “hypoallergenic” dog breed, though all dogs—including Bichons Frise—contain allergens in their skin, saliva, and urine.
Care Guide
The Bichon Frise likes to play, be social, and play some more. Some of their favorite activities include playing with favorite toys and learning new tricks. Once their energy needs are met, Bichons are content to lounge with their family on the couch. Due to their small stature, Bichons make good apartment dogs. They can really make excellent dogs for any home, including with first-time pet parents. While Bichons Frise tend to bark when alerted to foreign sounds, they are easily trainable because they’re so eager to please their humans.