Brushing is required at least twice per week and their white coats get dirty quickly, so baths are very common. Brushing should always be done before a bath, because the hair naturally tangles in the water. Tangles and mats that are present before a bath will be nearly impossible to remove and have to be cut out.
The coat will need to be trimmed every six weeks to maintain a good length. Most owners keep a standing appointment every four to six weeks with a groomer to keep up with baths, trims, nail clipping and ear cleaning as grooming a Bichon is not for the faint of heart or for those pressed for time.
Bichons are prone to eye tearing which can stain the face. Veterinarians can recommend eye wipes or solutions that can reduce the tearing, relieve discomfort for the dog and help keep their white faces clean.
The Bichon is classified as “somewhat active,” but that’s an average. Long stretches of calm are interspersed with brief bursts of high activity, often just running through the house or around the yard.
Daily play sessions, in addition to walks, are required. Another dog can be a fine exercise companion, but the Bichon will still need quality playtime with his owner.
A fenced-in backyard is a good idea; Bichons are surprisingly fast, and if one makes a dash for freedom, he may be difficult to catch or to call back to you. Many Bichons enjoy participating in obedience, agility, and rally competitions.
Whole foods including good cuts of meat are great for the Bichon Frise. It might be easy to spoil them, but be sure that they receive a steady diet of whole, natural foods that they’ll be able to enjoy. Don’t overfeed them.
They should do well on high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s supervision and approval.
Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity.
Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.
Bichons are generally healthy dogs, and responsible breeders will screen breeding stock for health conditions such as allergies, bladder infections, luxating patella, and cataracts and other eye diseases.
Bichons may experience early tooth loss or complications from gum infection if dental care and regular tooth brushing are not a priority. To avoid ear infections, regular ear cleaning is recommended.
Generally, the Bichon Frise is a worry-free dog in terms of training, perhaps a reason they were so popular in the trading world of Europe where it would be easy to acquire a dog and acclimate it to ventures such as sailing and bartering.
It might require a little bit of patience to deal with the Bichon Frise if you’re a first-time dog owner, but proper training will go a long way in this breed. Being sure to socialize this dog with other dogs early on is a good idea.
