Description

The Bichon Frise is also known as the Tenerife dog or the Bichon Tenerife The Bichon Frise is a small, sturdy, white powder puff of a dog whose merry temperament is evident by his plumed tail carried jauntily over his back. The Bichon Frise loves to be the center of attention and is always eager to please. Bichon Frise makes a delightful and amusing companion. Gentle-mannered, sensitive, very playful and affectionate the Bichon Frise is good with children and other pets.

Size of Male: Height: 9.5-11.5 inches Weight: 12-18 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 9.5-11.5 inches Weight: 12-18 pounds

Temperament

The Bichon Frise is an appealing little white dog that loves human company. The Bichon Frise has an independent spirit, is intelligent, affectionate, bold and lively. Bichon Frise is charming, gentle and is not a yapper. It has a self-assuring, happy temperament that is easy to live with. These bright little dogs are easy to train and just loves everyone. They need people to be happy. They are naturally sociable and are happiest when they are part of a family that takes them everywhere. This sociable trait also means that they are fine in the company of other dogs & pets and are excellent with children. Used as watchdogs and to perform tricks, this breed is competitive and obedient. Like a lot of smaller breeds, the Bichon may be difficult to housebreak.

Living Conditions

The Bichon Frise can live in an apartment if it gets enough exercise. Bichon Frise are fairly active indoors and will do ok without a yard. If your bichon fries starts destroying thing though it is a sign it does not have enough exercise. Do ensure that you bring your dog out for exercise if you see it is very lazy and inactive to ensure that it does not get bored.

Upkeep

Although small, the Bichon Frise is an active dog and needs daily exercise. Bichon Frise’s needs can be met with a vigorous indoor game or, better, a romp in the yard or a short walk on leash. The white powder-puff coat of Bichon Frise needs brushing and combing every other day, plus scissoring and trimming every two months. It doesn’t shed, but the loose hairs become entangled in the coat and can mat. It may be difficult to keep white in some areas. This is not a dog that should live outdoors. Do also ensure that ear hair is kept short to prevent ear infections

Health

Major concerns: Cataracts, Progressive retinal atrophy, acute and chronic skin allergies, Epilepsy, Pancreatitis, diabetes, Hyperadrenocorticism, Hypothyroidism

Minor concerns: Patellar Luxation, ear infections, heart disease, Cataracts, Progressive retinal atrophy

Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years