Bichon Frise

Alternative names: Tenerife Dog, Bichon à Poil Frisé.

History of the breed

The Bichon Frise is one of the oldest breeds in the Bichon family, with roots in the Mediterranean. Originally bred in the Canary Islands, it later spent much time in European royal courts, where it was beloved for its charming appearance and cheerful disposition. During the 19th century, the Bichon Frise lost some of its popularity and became a street dog, but eventually rediscovered its place in the hearts of dog lovers.

Character and temperament

The Bichon Frise is a cheerful, playful, and gentle dog. It's sociable and loves being around people and other pets. This breed is affectionate, eager to learn, and relatively easy to train, making it an excellent family dog. It adapts well to a variety of living situations, from apartments to houses with gardens.

Physical characteristics

Shoulder height : 23-30 cm.
Weight : 3-5 kg.
Coat : Fine, silky and curly with a fluffy appearance.
Colors : Always white, sometimes with cream-colored tones on the ears.
Sizes for collars and harnesses : Neck circumference 25-35 cm, chest circumference 40-50 cm.

Care

The Bichon Frisé's coat requires a lot of maintenance. Regular brushing (at least 3-4 times a week) is necessary to prevent tangles, and professional grooming is recommended to maintain the breed's unique look. In addition, you should keep the eyes and ears clean to prevent infections.

Movement and activity

Although the Bichon Frise is a small dog, it still needs daily exercise. Short walks, playtime, and mental stimulation like toys and puzzles keep it happy and healthy. This breed is energetic and enjoys interaction with its owner.

Health

The Bichon Frise is a relatively healthy breed, but may be prone to:

Patellar luxation (loose kneecaps)
Dental problems
Allergies and skin problems
Eye problems, such as cataracts

The average life expectancy is 12-15 years.

Power supply

A high-quality diet, tailored to their size and activity level, is essential. On average, a Bichon Frise eats 100-150 grams of food per day, divided into two meals. It's important to support dental health with food or chews.

Training and socialization

The Bichon Frise is intelligent and eager to learn. It responds well to positive reinforcement and benefits from short, varied training sessions. Early socialization helps it remain confident and friendly in a variety of situations.

Suitability for owners

The Bichon Frise is ideal for families, singles, and seniors looking for an affectionate and playful dog. It adapts well to various living situations but can develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long.

Share your experience with us!

Do you own a Bichon Frisé? Send a photo of your dog to customerservice@fidello.nl and receive a 10% discount on your next purchase. Want to contribute to a video for FidelloTV? Schedule an appointment using the same email address and receive €20 in store credit as a thank you for participating!