Temperament
Bichons are cheerful, playful and affectionate. They're usually friendly with everyone, including children, strangers, dogs and cats — making them excellent family pets.
Exercise and energy
Moderate: 30–45 minutes a day of walks and play. They love to show off tricks.
Grooming
The coat sheds little but mats quickly. Brush thoroughly several times a week and book professional grooming every 4–6 weeks. Wipe tear stains around the eyes.
Training
Eager to please and quick to learn tricks, but house-training can be slow. Use crate training and a consistent schedule. Bichons can struggle with being left alone.
Health
Watch for allergies and itchy skin, bladder stones, dental disease, kneecap problems and cataracts.
Is the Bichon Frise right for you?
✅ A great match if you…
- Are a first-time owner
- Want a low-shedding family dog
- Live in an apartment
- Have kids, seniors or other pets
⛔ Think twice if you…
- Don't want to brush several times a week
- Can't pay for grooming every 4–6 weeks
- Are away for long hours
- Want quick house-training
Breed traits are general tendencies, not guarantees. Health information is a summary of issues commonly reported in the breed — ask breeders for health-testing results and discuss screening with your veterinarian. Weights and heights are typical adult ranges and vary by line and sex.
