PROS AND CONS OF THE BICHON FRISE BREED

Is the Bichon Frise the right dog breed for you – honestly, without sugarcoating

Small.
White.
Curly.

Looks like a plush toy.
But it’s not a toy.

The Bichon Frise has been considered a timeless dog breed for centuries.
A favorite of aristocracy.
A salon dog.
A family darling.

But…
like every dog – it’s not for everyone.

If you’re thinking about getting a Bichon, you need to know both the good and the bad.

Because a dog is not chosen with your eyes.
A dog is chosen with your lifestyle.

Let’s be honest.

PROS OF THE BICHON FRISE BREED

🐾 Extremely affectionate and emotionally attached to their owner

If you’re looking for a dog that will follow you everywhere – you’ve found it.

A Bichon doesn’t like being a “side member” of the family.
It wants to be part of everything.
Your routine.
Your mood.
Your day.

Its loyalty is endless.
And that’s exactly why the Bichon is often described as an ideal family dog.

Excellent dog for families with children

Bichons have a very high tolerance level.
They are patient. Non-aggressive. Playful.

Children can be loud, clumsy, and sometimes rough.
The Bichon tolerates it.
And not only tolerates it – it often bonds deeply with the child as “its person.”

Of course, always under adult supervision.
A dog is not a babysitter.
But the Bichon is one of the rare small breeds that truly does well with children.

Social and adaptable with other animals

Already have a dog? A cat?
No problem.

The Bichon is an extremely social breed.
It rarely shows aggression.
With proper socialization, it easily accepts other animals.

For apartments with multiple pets – an excellent choice.

Intelligent and easy to train

Bichons are smart.
And more importantly – they want to please their owner.

They learn quickly.
They enjoy training.
Especially when positive reinforcement is used.

Tricks, basic obedience, even more complex exercises – all are achievable with the right motivation and consistency.

Perfectly adapted to apartment living

No yard?
No problem.

The Bichon doesn’t need intense physical activity.
Short walks + a bit of playtime at home = a happy dog.

Ideal for apartments, even smaller ones.

Easily adapts to travel and changes

If you travel often – this is a big advantage.

Bichons adjust easily to new places, different means of transportation, and changes in routine.
They simply want to be with their owner, wherever that may be.

A big plus for people who don’t want to leave their dog behind.

Doesn’t require long or exhausting walks

Not a marathon runner?
The Bichon won’t judge you 😄

Short walks, some play, and mental stimulation – and it’s perfectly happy.

Long lifespan and generally good health

Average lifespan: 15 years, often longer.

With proper nutrition, care, and regular vet checkups, a Bichon can be your companion for many years.

Hypoallergenic coat and minimal shedding

Bichons belong to breeds that don’t shed in the traditional way.

Their coat traps loose hair inside the curls, which means:

• less hair around the house
• better suited for people with allergies (not 100% risk-free, but significantly easier)

CONS OF THE BICHON FRISE BREED

And now – reality.

Prone to anxiety and separation anxiety

The Bichon bonds too strongly.

If left alone for long periods, it may develop:

• whining
• destructive behavior
• anxiety

This is not a dog for people who are away all day.

Dental and gum problems

Teeth are a weak point.

Without regular oral hygiene, issues may include:

• tartar buildup
• gum inflammation
• bad breath

Teeth brushing + dental chews = mandatory.

Can be jealous and possessive

If neglected, a Bichon may show jealousy.

Especially toward:

• other dogs
• new family members
• babies

Consistent training and boundaries are crucial.

Doesn’t tolerate being alone well

If you work 8–10 hours a day outside the home, the Bichon is not an ideal choice.

It can be trained to stay alone – but it requires time, patience, and effort.

Demanding when it comes to attention

The Bichon loves being the center of attention.
And no – that’s not a myth.

If it gets bored, it will find a way to show it.
Not always in a pleasant way.

Requires time and commitment

This is not a “self-entertaining” dog.

It needs:

• playtime
• interaction
• mental stimulation

If you don’t have the time – there are better breeds for you.

Coat requires daily care and regular grooming

No sugarcoating here:
the coat is a serious commitment.

Brushing almost every day.
Professional grooming every 4–6 weeks.

Otherwise – matting, neglected coat, and discomfort for the dog.

Picky eaters

Bichons often have:

• sensitive stomachs
• food intolerances
• picky appetites

Frequent food changes = a bad idea.

Higher maintenance costs

Groomer.
Coat care products.
Veterinary care.

Despite being small, the Bichon is not a cheap breed to maintain.

Harder to potty train

One of the most common complaints.

Bichons love routine.
Without it – problems are guaranteed.

Consistency + rewards = the only solution.

Is the Bichon Frise the right breed for you?

If you want a dog that:

• stays close to you at all times
• demands attention
• requires regular grooming
• gives unlimited love in return

👉 the Bichon may be a perfect choice.

If you want an “independent” dog that doesn’t require much time –
👉 think again.

A dog is not chosen by looks.
A dog is chosen by the life you live.

Written by Nataša Miranović
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