Breed of the Month: Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise has been recorded as early as the 13th century and was rumored to have originated in the Mediterranean. The Bichon’s cheerful disposition, eagerness to please and ability to quickly master tricks made it so that they were often used as circus performers and musical organ grinder dogs. The Bichon became so well loved and desired that Spanish sailors used to barter and trade them and it wasn’t long before the breed was spread throughout Europe. It is not known exactly when the Bichon made its way to North America, but the breed was officially acknowledged by the American Kennel Club in 1973. Nowadays, the Bichon Frise is bred as a companion dog. If you are looking for a happy-go-lucky, highly intelligent, curious dog who loves human companionship, then this may be the breed for you!

Weight:

Male: 7-12 lbs.

Female: 7-12 lbs.

Height:

Male: 9-12 in.

Female: 9-11 in.

Features:

  • Small breed
  • White coat colour
  • Naturally long and curly “corkscrew” like coat
  • Black nose and dark round eyes
  • Long plumed tail
  • Hypoallergenic

Expectations:

  • Exercise requirements: 30 minutes a day
  • Lifespan: 12-15 years
  • Energy Level: Moderate
  • Drool Level: Low
  • Bark Level: Moderate
  • Grooming needs: High
  • Shedding Level: Low
  • Intelligence: High
  • Child Friendly: High
  • Cat/Dog Friendly: High

Common Health Problems:

  • Luxating Patellas
  • Eye conditions/cataracts
  • Dental disease
  • Allergies