Trainability

The Bichon Frise is very easy to train. However, it’s not the ease of the training for this breed, but more the motivation of owners to train their little dog. With such an adorable manner it’s easy to by-pass training for a cuddle instead! However, like all dogs, it’s important you train your wee pup particularly for manners and a strong recall command. They thrive with consistent training and excel in learning new tricks. Like with all breeds, early socialisation with as many sights, sounds and experiences are critical in growing a well-rounded and accepting dog. Puppy-preschools are also a great way to introduce your pup to basic training and lots of other puppies to play with, in a safe and secure environment.

Grooming

Bichons are not big shedders; however, they will require a good maintenance grooming schedule to keep their double coat in good condition and free of painful tangles and matts. If you do not have the time to dedicate to grooming this is not the breed for you. The Bichon Frise will also need frequent bathing to keep the coat looking white and clean. Many owners take their adorable dogs to professional groomers regularly for clipping and cutting around every four to six weeks. This type of cost needs to be considered before purchasing the breed.

Exercise Requirements

Don’t be fooled by size your wee Bichon does require a good dose of daily exercise. A brisk walk once a day can suffice to keep your little dog happy and healthy. This combined with some fun games will keep your dog entertained and out of trouble. They also excel in obedience sports such as agility. Anything that your pup can do to work alongside and please you, they will love.

Intelligence

Being highly intelligent the Bichon is a master at learning new tricks and games. They are known for suffering from separation anxiety as they just know when their ‘best-friends’ are not around. For this reason, it’s important to consider boredom busters or ‘fun games’ for when you are not at home or even consider enrolling your pup in a doggy daycare facility. As with all dogs; boredom, a lack of exercise and training, and too much time alone can equal a recipe for disaster and destruction. So always consider this before purchasing any dog.

Family Friendly

The Bichon makes a wonderful family companion and loves being the centre of attention. However, due to their small size, it’s important to teach children not to carry your pup (sitting cuddles only). Like with all dogs it’s recommended to train your dog how to correctly behave around children and also teach your children how to correctly interact with a dog. All play sessions and cuddles need to be supervised, especially with young children. They are very tolerant with the nose and fun of children and will love having a constant companion to follow and play with. The breed also adapts well to life with other pets.

Indoor/ Outdoor

This is not the type of breed you leave outside for a long period of time. They do not take well to being left alone and will pine for their loving owners to return. The Bichon makes a great apartment dwelling dog or small residences. Like with all breeds they will require good shelter from all types of weather and ample shade in the summer and warmth in the winter. Certainly, an indoor residing dog that simply blossoms with attention, companionship and love.

Breeding

It is very important to only source your new family member from a reputable breeding establishment, to ensure your puppy is healthy. Ask all the important questions about hereditary problems and ask to see mum and dad. Contact your local breed club and research your chosen breeder. Your breeder should have proof that they regularly test their dogs for genetic diseases and to ensure that the dogs they are breeding from have sound temperaments. It may take a little more time than a quick purchase, but it can save you and your family from unimaginable heartache and pain dealing with a sick puppy.