Bichon Frise
Also known as Bichon A Poil Frise · Bichon de Pelo Rizado
Belgium, France, Bichons and related breeds
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 23–30 cm
- Weight
- 5–8 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Cheerful
- Playful
- Affectionate
- Sociable
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, white companion dog from the Mediterranean, associated with Belgium and France. It descends from the barbichon types that were popular as pets in European households. It has a sturdy small body, a dark-eyed, round-faced look and a soft, curly white coat. Its coat is traditionally trimmed into a rounded shape.
Temperament
Cheerful, playful and affectionate, usually good with children and other pets. It likes company and may struggle with being left alone. Intelligent and generally responsive to gentle, reward-based training.
Exercise
Needs a daily walk and indoor or garden play, which usually meets its needs. It enjoys short outings and games.
Grooming
Curly coat needs daily or near-daily brushing and regular trimming, usually every few weeks. Keep eyes and face clean to avoid staining.
Care & wellbeing
Small dogs need regular dental care, and skin and ear checks are useful. Keep a healthy weight.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 6.5 kg adult- Water
- 260 ml–390 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 460 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Daily brushing
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Bichon Frise
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A small white companion breed with roots in the Mediterranean, popular with European nobility and later also seen as a performer and circus dog. Cheerful and affectionate, its curly coat does not shed much but needs frequent grooming and trimming.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Patellar luxation
- Dental disease
- Allergies
- Bladder stones
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Kneecap (patella) check
- Eye tests
- Hip scores
Not every Bichon Frise is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Bichon Frise right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Bichon Frise get?
Adult Bichon Frises typically stand about 23–30 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 5–8 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Bichon Frises live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Bichon Frise need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Bichon Frise need?
Daily brushing, plus regular professional grooming or clipping. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Bichon Frises easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Bichon Frises shed?
Very little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Bichon Frises good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Bichon Frise live in a flat?
Usually, yes — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Bichon Frises have?
The breed can be prone to patellar luxation, dental disease, allergies. Not every Bichon Frise is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Belgium, France
- Type
- Bichons and related breeds
- Internationally recognised
- 1959