Bichon Frise: Temperament, Coat and Everyday Care

A Bichon Frise suits a home that wants a cheerful, affectionate small dog and has time for grooming. The curly coat sheds little onto the floor but mats quickly, so plan on brushing most days and a groomer every few weeks. Bichons love company and don't like long days alone.

A fluffy white Bichon Frise with a rounded trim sitting on a garden bench — A cotton-wool cloud with a sense of humor.

Breed-standard figures; individual dogs vary.

Bichon Frise at a glance
Height	About 9–11.5 inches (23–29 cm)
Lifespan	Over 12 years
Coat	Soft, curly double coat; daily brushing and regular grooming
Exercise	Up to 30 minutes a day, plus play
Good with	Families, older people and other pets, usually
Bred for	Companionship

Who a Bichon Suits

Bichons are playful, friendly and people-focused. They suit apartments, families with gentle children and older owners who want a merry companion.

They are a harder fit for homes where they'd be alone for long hours, and for anyone without time or budget for grooming.

The Coat: Brush Most Days

The Royal Kennel Club lists grooming as an every-day job. Brush right down to the skin with a slicker brush, then comb through, paying attention to the ears, legs and armpits. Most pet Bichons visit a groomer every few weeks for a trim and bath. Little hair ends up on the floor, but no dog is truly allergy-free.

Exercise and Training

Short daily walks and indoor games keep a Bichon happy. They learn quickly with rewards. House training can take a little longer with small breeds, so be patient and consistent; see toilet training a puppy.

Teeth and Eyes

Small mouths often mean crowded teeth, so brush daily with dog toothpaste. Keep the hair around the eyes trimmed and wipe away any tear staining gently.

Gear for a Curly White Coat

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A slicker brush and a metal comb keep the curls mat-free. Round-tipped scissors tidy the eyes and paws, a dog toothbrush keeps small teeth clean, and a puzzle toy keeps a bright mind busy.

Health: What to Ask the Breeder and Your Vet

In the UK, The Royal Kennel Club lists eye testing as good practice for Bichon Frise breeders. Ask the breeder what other checks the parents have had, and ask your vet to check the kneecaps and teeth at routine visits.

Book a check-up soon after your dog comes home, keep it lean, and ask your vet about vaccinations, neutering and a parasite prevention plan for where you live.

Worming, flea and tick products and any medicines: see your vet or a pet supply store with trained staff. They can tell you what suits your dog.

Finding a Puppy or a Rescue

Meet the puppy with its mother, see the parents' health results, and ask how the puppy has been introduced to grooming. Bichons also come into rescues. See rescue vs breeder.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fluff, allergies and grooming top the list.

Are Bichons hypoallergenic?

No dog is truly allergy-free. Bichons shed little onto the floor, which may help some people, but meet the dog first if anyone has allergies.

How often does a Bichon need grooming?

Brushing most days at home and a groomer every few weeks.

Are Bichons good with children?

Usually, yes, with gentle children. Supervise play with a small dog.

Can a Bichon be left alone?

For short periods. They love company and don't suit long days alone.