Bichon Frise Dog
With human-like eyes the Bichon Frise is one of the most adorable companion dogs around. This little mischievous loyal friend enlightens the lives of all those who invite them into their loving homes. Always happy and eager to please and play.
Bichon Frise At A Glance
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Temperament | Friendly & Alert |
| Suitable | A great family addition to active households and individuals. |
| Health | Generally healthy breed but can be prone to certain health complaints. |
| COMMON CLAIMS | MAXIMUM CLAIM |
|---|---|
| Tissue Damage or Fracture | $3,971.37 |
| Anal Sac Disorder | $416.00 |
| Diabetes | $9,863.00 |
| Ear Conditions | $465.45 |
| Endocrine Disease – Adrenal | $538.00 |
| Eye Conditions | $829.40 |
| Gastrointestinal Tract Condition | $3,190.42 |
| Heart Condition | $3,120.55 |
| Arthritis | $399.00 |
| Cruciate Ligament | $4,685.70 |
*Pet Insurance Australia Data 2022/2023
Trainability
The Bichon Frise is very easy to train. However, it’s not the ease of the training for this breed, but more the motivation of owners to train their little dog. With such an adorable manner it’s easy to by-pass training for a cuddle instead! However, like all dogs it’s important you train your wee pup particularly for manners and a strong recall command. They thrive with consistent training and excel in learning new tricks. Like with all breeds, early socialisation with as many sights, sounds and experiences is critical in growing a well-rounded and accepting dog. Puppy-preschools are also a great way to introduce your pup to basic training and lots of other puppies to play with in a safe and secure environment.
All About Grooming
Bichons are not big shedders; however, they will require a good maintenance grooming schedule to keep their double coat in good condition and free of painful tangles and matts. If you do not have the time to dedicate to grooming this is not the breed for you. The Bichon Frise will also need frequent bathing to keep the coat and face looking white and clean. Many owners take their adorable dogs to professional groomers regularly for clipping and cutting around every four to six weeks. This type of cost needs to be considered before purchasing the breed.
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Common Health Concerns – Bichon Frise
Like with any breed of dog, health conditions can vary. The great news is that Bichon Frise are generally considered a relatively healthy and robust breed. However, there are some common health concerns that the breed could be prone to including:
- Diabetes: The Bichon Frise is known to suffer from Diabetes Mellitus a disease affecting the pancreas that causes high blood sugar. Symptoms can include increased thirst, urination, and appetite alongside weight loss. Treatment may include daily insulin injections.
- Allergies: The Bichon Frise are known to be susceptible to suffering from a range of food and skin allergies. Untreated allergies can lead to skin irritations and uncontrollable itching. Recurring ear infections are also another symptom of allergies. Regular grooming and skin monitoring alongside a high-quality, balanced diet can help manage allergies.
- Corneal Dystrophy: An opaque like area that develops in the centre of the cornea. In advanced cases this condition can affect vision in the affected eye.
- Dental Issues: As like with most smaller breeds, the Bichon Frise are prone to dental problems, including periodontal disease. Regular dental care is advisable. Getting your puppy used to teeth brushing is a great way to include dental care into your grooming sessions.
- Patellar Luxation: Like with many smaller breeds, the Bichon Frise can be prone to patellar luxation. This is a common condition when the kneecap slip out of place causing lameness and discomfort. Keeping your white wonder fit and healthy can help prevent this condition.
- Cataracts: Like many dog breeds later in life, the Bichon Frise may also develop cataracts. This clouding of the eye-lens can lead to impaired vision or blindness. Regular check-ups with your local veterinarian can help detect and treat cataract.
- Bladder Stones: This can be caused from hereditary, diet or secondary urinary infections. Bladder stones can cause discomfort and potentially lead to urinary tract infections. Symptoms include bloody urine and straining to urinate.
- Ear Infections: The Bichon Frise adorable floppy ears can make them prone to ear infections. Regular cleaning of the ear alongside the correct ear care can help prevent infections and discomfort. Symptoms can include scratching and head flapping.
- Heart Problems: The Bichon Frise may also be prone to heart issues, such as mitral valve disease or more commonly referred to as a heart murmur. Veterinary check-ups can ensure early detection and management of this condition.
Exercise Requirements of the Bichon Frise
Don’t be fooled by size, your wee Bichon Frise does require a good dose of daily exercise. A brisk walk once a day can suffice to keep your little dog happy and healthy. This combined with some fun games will keep your dog entertained and out of trouble. They also excel in obedience sports such as agility. Anything that your pup can do to work alongside you, they will love.
High Intelligence
Being highly intelligent the Bichon Frise is a master at learning new tricks and games. They are known for suffering from separation anxiety as they just know when their ‘best-friends’ are not around. For this reason, it’s important to consider boredom busters or ‘fun games’ for when you are not at home, or even consider enrolling your pup in a doggy day care facility. As with all dogs; boredom, a lack of exercise and training, and too much time alone, can equal a recipe for disaster and destruction. So always consider this before purchasing any dog.
Family Friendly
The Bichon makes a wonderful family companion and loves being the centre of attention. However, due to their small size it’s important to teach children not to carry your pup (sitting cuddles only). Like with all dogs it’s recommended to train your dog how to correctly behave around children and also teach your children how to correctly interact with a dog. All play sessions and cuddles need to be supervised, especially with young children. They are very tolerant with the nose and fun of children and will love having a constant companion to follow and play with. The breed also adapts well to life with other pets.
Indoor/outdoor?
This is not the type of breed you leave outside for a long period of time. They do not take well to being left alone and will pine for their loving owners to return. The Bichon Frise makes a great apartment dwelling dog or small residences. Like with all breeds they will require good shelter from all types of weather and ample shade in the summer and warmth in the winter. Certainly, an indoor residing dog that simply blossoms with attention, companionship and love.
Responsible Breeding
It is very important to only source your new family member from a reputable breeding establishment, to ensure your puppy is healthy. Ask all the important questions about hereditary problems and ask to see mum and dad. Contact your local breed club and research your chosen breeder. Your breeder should have proof that they regularly test their dogs for genetic diseases and to ensure that the dogs they are breeding from have sound temperaments. It may take a little more time than a quick purchase, but it can save you and your family from unimaginable heartache and pain dealing with a sick puppy.
Contact PIA for Bichon Frise Pet Insurance
PIA is a family owned pet insurance company for Australia, and we have a long and successful history of helping owners care for their Bichon Frises. Contact us today to learn more about our range of simple, flexible and affordable cover options.
