Bichon Frise
The Good
- Cheerful and friendly nature
- High intelligence and trainability
- Ideal companion dogs
- Easy to train and eager to please
- No specific doggy odour
The Real
- Coat requires intensive grooming care
- Prone to allergies and sensitivities
- Need careful diet monitoring
- Don't cope well with being left alone
- Not suitable as guard dogs
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Bichon Frise (pronounced BEE-shon Free-ZAY) is like having a fluffy white cloud of pure joy in your home. These extra-small but sturdy companions stand just under 30 cm tall and weigh between 5-8 kg, making them a fantastic fit for Australian apartment living or suburban homes.
What makes Bichons truly special is their cheerful, charming personality. They are brilliant with children and other pets, cementing their place as a favourite for young families from Melbourne to Perth. Their 'hypoallergenic' coat sheds minimally, which is great news for allergy sufferers and those who prefer a clean home.
These little comedians are known for their bursts of energy, often called 'Bichon Blitzes', followed by calm periods of cuddling on the couch. You'll often see them charming everyone they meet at weekend markets from Bondi to Adelaide, as they assume every stranger is just a friend they haven't met yet.
While they're small, don't underestimate their intelligence. Bichons are confident dogs who love being the centre of attention. They're happy to join you for a coastal walk but need indoor cooling during a hot Darwin afternoon. Just remember, these social butterflies don't cope well with being left alone — they thrive on human companionship.
History
The Bichon Frise has quite the aristocratic past, with their story beginning in the Mediterranean region during the 12th century. These charming little dogs were originally developed from the Barbet or Water Spaniel, which gives us the name 'Barbichon' - later shortened to 'Bichon'. They're part of the Barbichon family, closely related to the Maltese, Havanese, and Bolognese breeds.
Maritime traders loved these portable companions, taking them on voyages throughout the Mediterranean. This is how Bichons spread to Spain, France, and Belgium, eventually making their way to the Canary Islands where they became known as Tenerife Bichons after the main island in the archipelago.
From the 13th century onwards, these dogs became the darlings of European aristocracy. French royalty, particularly during the Renaissance under Francis I and later Henry III, absolutely adored them. They were featured in paintings by renowned artists like Goya, Renoir, and Dürer, often appearing in royal portraits as beloved court companions.
The breed's popularity soared during the 15th to 17th centuries, particularly in Belgium and France. However, despite their royal connections, official recognition came surprisingly late. Belgium first registered the breed in their stud book in 1932, with France and the international kennel associations following suit in 1933.
The World Wars nearly devastated the breed, but dedicated breeders worked to preserve these delightful dogs. They finally reached the United States in 1955 and have since spread worldwide, bringing their cheerful personalities to families across the globe, including here in Australia where they've become increasingly popular companions.
Traits & Characteristics
Bichon Frise characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Bichon Frises are generally robust little dogs with a lifespan of 14-15 years. However, like all purebreds, they are prone to certain health conditions that owners should be aware of. Reputable ANKC breeders screen their breeding stock for genetic issues.
Skin allergies (atopy) are very common, often triggered by environmental allergens like grasses, dust mites, or pollens common in Australia. This can lead to itchy skin, chewing at paws, and ear infections. Management might involve special diets, medication, or regular vet visits. Another common issue is Patellar Luxation, where the kneecap temporarily dislocates. It's a leading cause of lameness in small breeds. In mild cases, it can be managed, but severe cases may require surgery.
Eye conditions are also a consideration. Bichons can develop cataracts, sometimes at a young age, which can affect vision. Regular vet checks can help monitor for any changes. Bladder stones can also occur, causing urinary discomfort or blockages. Watch for symptoms like bloody urine or straining to urinate; this condition often requires a special diet or surgery.
Finally, dental health is crucial. Small dogs are prone to dental disease, so daily brushing and annual professional cleaning are essential to prevent tooth loss and other complications. On the Australian East Coast, diligent paralysis tick prevention is non-negotiable.
Feeding your Bichon Frise properly is crucial for maintaining their health and preventing obesity, which these little dogs can be prone to. In Australia, you'll find excellent high-quality commercial dog foods that meet nutritional standards, and these work brilliantly for Bichons.
Choose age-appropriate food - puppy formula for young Bichons, adult food for mature dogs, and senior formulas for older companions. Small breed formulas are particularly beneficial as they're designed for smaller mouths and higher metabolic needs. Some Australian pet stores even stock Bichon-specific foods if you prefer breed-targeted nutrition.
Portion control is essential. Follow the manufacturer's feeding guidelines on the packaging, but remember these are starting points. Your Australian vet can provide personalised advice based on your dog's weight, body condition, and activity level - particularly important given our varied climate conditions from tropical Darwin to cooler Melbourne winters.
Adult Bichons typically do well with two meals daily, while puppies need three to five smaller meals to prevent hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Because Bichons are intelligent and love mental stimulation, consider using puzzle feeders, lick mats, or snuffle mats instead of regular bowls. This makes mealtime more engaging and helps prevent gulping.
If your Bichon develops bladder stones, your vet will likely recommend a prescription diet. Australian veterinary clinics are well-equipped to provide these specialised foods and ongoing dietary management.
Treats should comprise no more than 10% of daily calories. Given Bichons' dental predisposition, look for dental chews approved by veterinary oral health councils. Always ensure fresh water is available, especially during our hot Australian summers when these fluffy dogs can overheat more easily than you might expect.
Here's where Bichon ownership gets real — that gorgeous coat requires a serious grooming commitment. Their curly, double-layered white hair demands daily attention to prevent painful matting and keep your Bichon looking its fluffy best.
Daily brushing is non-negotiable. You'll need a quality slicker brush and a metal 'greyhound' comb. The brush removes loose undercoat hair, while the comb ensures you've worked through every tangle right to the skin. Many Australian Bichon owners use a grooming spray to prevent static and make brushing easier.
Baths are needed around every 3-4 weeks. After a trip to a sandy Aussie beach or a romp in the park, you might need one sooner. After towel drying, you'll need to blow-dry the coat while brushing to achieve that signature fluffy look and prevent the hair from curling up and matting.
Professional grooming every four to six weeks is mandatory. An experienced groomer can give them the classic 'powder puff' cut. In Australia, expect to budget around $100-$150 for each professional groom, as it is a specialised skill.
Daily eye care is also important to prevent tear staining on their white fur. Use a soft, damp cloth or dog-safe wipes. Also, check and clean their ears weekly and trim their nails every 2-3 weeks. This routine quickly becomes second nature, and it's a small price for such a beautiful companion.
Bichons are brilliant little students who genuinely want to please you, making them surprisingly easy to train despite their small size. They're intelligent, eager learners who respond beautifully to positive reinforcement methods - harsh training simply doesn't work with these sensitive souls.
Start socialisation and basic training early. Puppy classes are widely available across Australian cities and are perfect for Bichons. They'll quickly master basics like "sit," "stay," and "come," and they absolutely love learning tricks. Many Australian owners are amazed at how quickly their Bichons pick up entertaining behaviours that delight family and friends.
The one training challenge many Australian owners face is housebreaking. Bichons can be a bit stubborn about toilet training, but consistency and patience pay off. Many successfully use indoor toilet training with puppy pads or litter boxes, which works well in Australian apartments or during extreme weather.
Exercise needs are moderate but important. These dogs have bursts of high energy followed by calm periods - perfect for our lifestyle. A couple of short walks daily, some backyard playtime, or indoor games usually satisfy their needs. They're surprisingly fast little runners, so always use a lead or ensure your yard is securely fenced.
Bichons love interactive play - tug-of-war, fetch with small toys, and puzzle games keep them mentally stimulated. They're also excellent apartment dogs for urban Australian living, as they can burn energy indoors when needed.
The key is preventing boredom. A lonely, unstimulated Bichon may bark excessively or develop destructive habits. But give them attention, training, and moderate exercise, and you'll have a well-behaved companion who's equally happy exploring Melbourne's laneways or relaxing during Perth's hot afternoons.
Who is an ideal owner?
A Bichon Frise is the perfect match for an owner who wants a devoted, indoor companion and has the time for their significant grooming needs. They are ideal for families with children, as their gentle and playful nature makes them patient playmates. Many young families in Adelaide and Brisbane choose Bichons because they're small enough for toddlers but still sturdy.
Retirees and those who work from home also find Bichons to be wonderful companions. They are content with moderate exercise and thrive on being involved in daily household activities. However, because they bond so closely, they're not suited to owners who are away for long hours, as they can develop separation anxiety.
First-time owners can do well with a Bichon, thanks to their trainable and forgiving nature. But the grooming is a deal-breaker if you're not prepared. You must commit to daily brushing and budget for professional grooming, which can cost upwards of $100 every 4-6 weeks.
Apartment dwellers in cities like Sydney and Melbourne will find them excellent urban pets. They don't need a large yard and are often under the weight limits set by many body corporate rules, but always check your building's by-laws first. If you want a low-maintenance guard dog, a Bichon is not for you. They're lovers, not fighters!
Interesting facts about the Bichon Frise
Curly Lap Dog
The name 'Bichon Frise' literally means 'curly lap dog' in French, perfectly describing their appearance and affectionate purpose.
Adored by French Royalty
These dogs were so beloved by French royalty, particularly King Henry III, that they were often carried around in special baskets.
Stars of Classic Art
Famous artists including Goya and Dürer featured Bichons in their paintings, often portraying them alongside noble families as a symbol of status and companionship.
The Tenerife Dog
The breed was developed in the Mediterranean and became especially popular on the Canary Islands, leading to their original name, 'Bichon Tenerife'.
FAQ
Absolutely! Bichons make excellent family dogs, especially with children. They're gentle, playful, and patient, making them great companions for kids of all ages.
Yes, they're quite intelligent and eager to please, which makes training relatively straightforward. They quickly pick up basic commands and love learning new tricks, though housebreaking can sometimes take extra patience.
From a reputable, ANKC-registered breeder in Australia, expect to pay between $3,500 and $5,000 AUD. Prices vary depending on the breeder, bloodline, and location. You might also find Bichons available through breed-specific rescues for a lower adoption fee.
They adapt well to most Australian conditions. Their fluffy coat provides some insulation, but they'll need sun protection during hot Perth or Darwin summers and might appreciate a coat during cooler Melbourne or Canberra winters.
While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, Bichons shed very little because their loose hair gets caught in their undercoat. This makes them a better choice for some people with dog allergies, but spend time with the breed first to see how you react.
Moderate exercise is perfect - a couple of short walks daily plus some indoor or backyard playtime usually keeps them happy. They're great for apartment living and don't need extensive exercise routines.
It's significant - daily brushing is essential, monthly baths are needed, and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks is virtually mandatory. This is definitely a high-maintenance breed when it comes to coat care, so factor this time and cost into your decision.