If you have ever wanted to adopt a Tuffy, only rounder and fluffier, you need to look no further than the Bichon Frise. It is a small dog, or how most people call it, a toy dog. Definitely one of the most often depicted dogs in popular culture, here are the things you need to know when getting a Bichon Frise.
Is The Bichon Frise Popular In India?
It is moderately popular in India, as in, it wouldn’t be at the top of the list of most popular dogs. They probably might not even make in the top 20 popular breeds in India. However, there’s no doubt that they are a great option for first time dog owners, because of their easy manageability.
Availability Of The Bichon Frise In India
As any dog of foreign breed, one must look for a certified breeder of good reputation if they are looking to raise a Bichon Frise in India. These dogs are a good fit for the country’s weather due to their tolerance to heat.
Price Of The Bichon Frise In India
The price of the Bichon Frise in India depends on its gender, authenticity, whether its purebred and the breeder that it is procured from. Breeders provide the Bichon Frise in three variants, them being – basic, KCI certified and show quality. The price ranges between Rs 25,000 to Rs 30,000 for the basic variant, is somewhere between ₹35,000 to ₹55,000 for the KCI certification and can be as high as between Rs 60,000 to Rs 90,000 for procuring a show quality dog. Whichever variant you opt for, always go through a reputable breeder.
See also: Popular Dogs in India
Monthly Maintenance Cost
The Bichon Frise must be groomed extensively so it is wise to get them used to the experience from an early age and to make it pleasant and enjoyable. A show dog would need its cut to be in full volume as is required by most show standards. They must be bathed at least once every two weeks or more depending upon the requirements of any show that they might be a part of.
Tear staining can occur around the eyes which can be taken care of with a saline solution available in most pet stores. Do not miss any vaccinations or health check ups for your dog after bringing them home. Due to the high grooming needs of the Bichon Frise, the monthly maintenance of it could be around Rs 4,500 to Rs 5,500.
The breeder that you bring the Bichon Frise from should be able to fill you in on other minute details of their grooming needs and any other foreseeable requirements.
History And Popularity
Contrary to popular opinion, the Bichon Frise is originally Spanish, not French. It was, however, the French that bred them into tiny docile creatures that is popularly known in the canine world as lap dogs. The ‘Frise’ in its name is a reference to its curly hair, which is how the breed gets its identity.
This dog has had highs and lows in its popularity. At one point, it was used as currency to barter. It was most seen in the late 1500s with the French nobility. It also had a phase where it was treated as a common dog running on the streets. Interest in it was revived after World War I by the French breeders.
A major cause of its popularity and current status stems from the depiction of a small fox terrier in the series “The adventures of Tintin” which led to a surge in the demand of the Bichon Frise as well. Also, people familiar with the works of the artist Francisco de Goya would be aware of the depiction of the pooch in several of his works.
Characteristics
The Bichon Frise is a small dog that weighs between 5-10 kgs and has a height of 23-30 cm. You would be surprised at the long length of the tail which is usually carried at the back. It is typically white though it may have a certain off white or peachy colouring around its ears. This does not exceed more than a tenth of its appearance. A Bichon Frise of any colour other than pure white is not recognised by the AKC standards.
The pooch is credited with medium to high intelligence. They are very friendly and playful and are a good fit for first time dog owners. They are certainly coveted for their cute looks and merry attitude. You also may be happy to know that this dog has an affinity for water and enjoys playing fetch. So you definitely have a fun companion to frolic around with.
Temperament Of The Bichon Frise
Gentle, playful and affectionate are the three characteristics that first come to mind when asked to describe the Bichon Frise. They can be somewhat territorial but are very obedient if properly trained. They get along really well with children owing to their affectionate nature and can be your most enthusiastic and lovable companions.
Bichons do have an independent streak that makes housebreak difficult but they are easily trained and love human companionship. It is a matter of starting training early and being patient and consistent throughout the years. They love to stay active indoors and also play outside while going for long walks.
You will notice sudden bursts of energy in them which is when they start running around the house for no reason. They are social dogs and need a lot of love and affection or they can be very sad.
Lifespan
The Bichon Frise can live up to the age of 12-15 years. So that’s over a decade of constant cuteness and love.
Litter Size
The litter size would be 4-6 puppies approximately.
Is The Bichon Frise Hypoallergenic
Yes, the Bichon Frise is considered hypoallergenic. It is still advisable to be diligent with their brushing schedule and regularly clean their toys and beds.
What Is The Bichon Frise Like As A Puppy?
You would certainly have a hard time looking away from this particular puppy because of the abundance of cuteness that it serves. On another note, it does have a stubborn streak that makes housebreak difficult but they are quick learners and some early training will inculcate the required manners in them.
They love spending time and playing with their owners. Other than their grooming needs, they are relatively low maintenance which makes them ideal for novice pet parents. Just make sure that you have factored in plenty of playtime in their schedule and don’t leave them home alone for extended hours.
Diet Of The Bichon Frise
The key is to find a diet that is nutritionally well balanced. The Bichon Frise has a small stomach so its meals should also be small. As a pup, feed him thrice a day and as an adult, twice. Feed them a mixture of dry and canned food to get the nutritional balance. Choose a food that lists a whole protein like meat or fish as its first ingredient.
Whole grains like barley, quinoa and brown rice are easily digestible grains and would take care of the daily carbohydrate and fibre content required for the dog. Foods containing vegetables and fish oils keep its white coat shiny and soft. Also, Bichon Frise need plenty of water per day so keep their water bowl always full.
Health Concerns
The biggest medical concern for the Bichon Frise is allergies. They suffer a number of allergies to certain types of food, fleas, ticks etc and have a certain period of sensitivity to weather changes which can affect their skin.
Liver shunts are also common. It must be detected early to be treatable otherwise it can be difficult to manage or heal later in their lives. Dental problems are quite common with them and their teeth must be cleaned as per a schedule and they must not miss their medical check ups.
The Bichon Frise has a thick coat of hair everywhere which must be regularly cleaned and brushed along with its ears and paws and its nails trimmed which otherwise, would lead to parasitic growth akin to infections on them. They are also prone to above average incidences of heart diseases and diabetes.
The key to your pooch’s good health is to take care of its diet and be observant towards his behaviour and on watch for any anomalies and get their health checked regularly. That should take care of most things.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bichon Frise
Can Bichon Frise live in India?
Bichon Frise is not too common in India, but they can live comfortably here. They don’t need cold weather like some other breeds might and can withstand heat better than others.
Are Bichons available in India?
Briefly, yes. If one is looking to raise a Bichon Frise, they must find a breeder of good reputation who can provide the necessary documentation for breeding. These dogs are well suited to living in the heat and humidity prevailing in India due to their tolerance level.
Why is Bichon Frise so expensive?
One of the main reasons why Bichon Frise is so expensive is because they’re considered an accessory dog breed, and when there’s a hype surrounding a product or resource, you want it more than ever before! The demand for these rare dogs creates their prices to skyrocket, making this trend even worse today.
Are Bichons dangerous?
Bichons have problems focusing and controlling their impulses, along with having a high activity level. This means they need LOTS of exercise and stimulation. By walking them or engaging in other physical activities, it can be done to reduce aggression or other unstable behaviors.
Do Bichons like to cuddle?
The Bichon Frise is one of the sweetest and most affectionate dog breeds. And yes, they love cuddles!
Are male or female Bichon Frise better?
It doesn’t really matter. The important thing is what you and your family want from the dog. If females are more affectionate, then maybe a female would be better for your needs. Both male and female Bichon Frise make great pets because they have wonderful dispositions. Dogs of both genders are easy to train and good with kids because they love attention! All in all, you can’t go wrong with either one of them. They’ll both make great companions for years to come!
Are Bichons hard to train?
The Bichon Frisé or simply named “Bichon,” is relatively easy to train because it wants to please and be loved by anyone and everyone around them.
Are Bichon dogs smart?
Bichons are intelligent dogs that enjoy learning new tricks and skills from their owners. You have to be firm yet gentle when training them, so they don’t feel discouraged or hurt by harsh corrections. Of course, this also helps ensure that they’ll do what you want during future training sessions without needing much encouragement at all; in other words, because of how well-mannered some Bichons become through proper training, many people train theirs for obedience competitions and agility contests.
How long is a Bichon Frise pregnant for?
A Bichon Frise is typically pregnant for a total of 2 months, usually producing 1-3 puppies. Pregnancy in dogs lasts about 63 days, and the mother will later go into labor on her own. There’s always some degree of variability, but a typical pregnancy would produce 1-3 puppies, usually with two being the most common. You can tell when it gets closer to birthing time because the female dog’s vulva will protrude, and the stomach area will shrink up noticeably, causing panting to happen more frequently than before. In normal deliveries, if there are three or more pups, they become lodged inside one another, which can cause complications – sometimes necessitating a C-section procedure.
Are Bichons loyal?
Yes, they are. They will not attack a stranger, but the one person that has been kind to them will always be their favorite human companion!
Are Bichon dogs protective?
The energetic and playful breed of dog is known for its sweet nature. They’re often not seen as guard dogs, but they will offer an alert bark if someone approaches the home.
What is the temperament of a Bichon Frise?
The Bichon frisé is a sweet, playful yet gentle dog. They get along well with other pets and are generally good around children as well.
Do Bichon Frise need a lot of exercises?
Bichon Frise needs only a little exercise per day, not more than 30 minutes to 45 minutes.
Is a Bichon Frise a herding dog?
Yes, a Bichon Frise is herding dog. They are popular in France and the Mediterranean for their petite nature, making them suitable to live in small apartments or homes.
What type of dog is a Bichon Frise?
The Bichon Frise is a dog that has been bred for companionship and loyalty. The breed’s origins are unknown, but historians believe it came from Tenerife, originally an island in Spain’s Canary Islands.
What is the price of Bichon Frise in India?
If you are looking to get your hands on the Bichon Frise, you should look for a reputable breeder. The price of this dog varies depending on its gender and authenticity. Show quality is one of the highest variants at Rs 60-90K, while Basic can be priced from 25k -30k
Why does my Bichon stink?
Bichon Frises are known for their cute and fluffy white fur, but they can have a nasty odor. If your Bichon smells like urine or ammonia, you may want to call the vet because there may be an underlying health issue such as kidney failure or liver disease. In addition, these little ones also tend to suffer from allergies which could be why they’re stinky!
Are Bichon Frise hard to potty train?
Bichon Frises are one of the more difficult breeds to potty train. They can have little accidents because their bladders fill up easily, and they’re highly susceptible, but if you work with them enough, then they’ll eventually get it down pat.
Are Bichons aggressive?
Bichons are not aggressive. They do have a history of being great companions. Throughout their history, Bichon Frise dogs would work as entertainers and companion animals to humans. Most Bichons don’t naturally harbor an instinct for guarding or hunting prey, making them the perfect breed of dog for someone looking for a non-aggressive pet!
Can Bichon Frise be left alone?
Barking can be a very common behavior in Bichons when they are left alone. Older ones seem to have more tolerance than younger pups, but this is not always the case, of course.
Are Bichon high maintenance?
Do you have a lot of free time? Yes, then the Bichon is for you. This high-maintenance breed needs constant grooming and bathing to maintain their coat – twice-weekly brushing or more if needed; they require regular baths when dirty to keep that white coat clean.
How often should Bichons be bathed?
Bichons should be bathed no more than once every two weeks. Bathing Bichons can often strip their delicate coats of natural oils, making them look thinner and feel rougher. If you are bathing your Bichon at home during the winter season, it’s important to use special shampoos formulated for pets, as these will do less damage than a human shampoo would. Wipe down with a damp cloth before washing if possible since this can remove dirt from the skin surface that might otherwise react with soap. Pay particular attention to feet, elbows, and underbelly areas that require extra care when washing due to sensitive skin surfaces or thin fur in those areas.
Do Bichons love their owners?
The Bichon is a delightful dog that loves to be with its owners. The breed originated in Tenerife and France, but their ancestry goes back many years ago. A playful and loving animal, the Bichons have become popular as pets because they are so great at forming an intimate bond with their humans!
How do I choose a Bichon Frise puppy?
One of the best ways to find a Bichon Frise is through a reputable breeder. Some breeders mistreat their dogs, so you’ll want to ensure that the person you’re purchasing from has healthy and well-treated animals. You can tell by visiting the conditions in which they live; a good breeder provides their dogs with ample space all around their home and multiple outdoor areas for them to roam. If it appears that there is not enough room outdoors, then this might not be the best place to get your new pet because these pups need lots of exercises every day, both indoors and outdoors, without which they can develop an unhealthy temperament.
Are Bichons Moody?
The Bichon is a friendly and intelligent breed that loves human companionship. The only downside to this dog’s personality is its tendency to become moody if left inactive for long periods. This cute little puppy will love you unconditionally, but it might be best not to give the poor thing too much sugar or leave them alone in their crate all day!
Do Bichons bark a lot?
Bichons are a very vocal breed, and they bark more than most other breeds – to get attention. Bichon’s need companionship as well, so when left alone for long periods, this is the only way you’ll know if it wants something from you!
Why do Bichons cry?
The Bichon breed of dog was bred to be the ultimate companion, so it should come as no surprise when they start crying for attention whenever you’re not around! Your precious pup can’t help its whining and neediness; after all, Bichons have been specifically created by breeding generations of smaller dogs until their natural “appeasement whine” emerged (a type of vocalization where animals believe this will please potential threats). In short: your little fluff ball just wants some love from you!
Are Bichons jealous dogs?
Bichons are a sensitive dog breed, and they’re sometimes so jealous that it’s difficult to leave them alone. The owner of any Bichon Frise needs to take care when introducing this animal into new social groups.
Why do Bichons lick so much?
Bichons will lick to show happiness or affection, usually in greeting. They are friendly dogs who like human interaction. Bichons can also obsessively lick themselves because of allergies or itching from food sensitivities, but this is uncommon for the breed. If this is the case, a veterinary visit should be made to rule out any serious health issues.
What can Bichon Frise not eat?
The food that Bichon Frise cannot eat is quite straightforward, and the list includes chocolate, avocado, beechnuts, mushrooms, onions, and garlic, to name a few.
How many hours does Bichon Frise sleep?
An adult Bichon Frise usually sleeps for 12 to 14 hours a day, while a puppy can sleep for as long as 18 to 20 hours a day.
Are Bichons lazy?
Bichon Frise is not lazy per se; they just have an activity level less vigorous than the average small dog. For some Bichons, their active nature may quickly diminish in adulthood with each year, where for other Bichons, their energy and zest for life will last through old age.
How far can Bichon Frise walk?
It depends on the individual dog’s weight and fitness level, but many fit Bichon Frise can walk up to two miles without being too tired.
Do Bichons like water?
Most dogs like the water, but not all breeds are bred to be retrievers or swim in it. The Bichon Frise is a breed that may appreciate swimming because they love getting wet and running around outside on hot summer days!
Where should a Bichon Frise sleep?
Bichons are a small breed of dog that can sleep in numerous places. They instinctively want to stay close to their pack, so crate them up with you at night and next door during the day!
Can Bichon eat eggs?
The American Kennel Club guidelines state that “only in extreme circumstances” should an egg be fed to a dog. The problem with feeding even one egg is that they are hard for the body to break down, and too much protein can lead to pancreatitis.
Do Bichon Frise run away?
It depends on the personality of your Bichon Frise. Some breeds are naturally more curious than others and tend to explore and play with other dogs, people, or animals they find interesting. So do some Bichon Frise run away? Yes, some might take an exploratory walk if you let them outside without a leash while in their natural environment (home). However, it would not be prudent to speculate as too many variables exist at this point, including your dog’s temperament.
What health problems does Bichon Frise have?
The Bichon Frise is prone to dental difficulties, allergies, and obesity. Many people find that when they switch their dog over to a better quality of diet with food higher in protein and lower in carbohydrates, their dog can gradually lose weight. This approach takes time and patients, but it will almost always be enough for most dogs to maintain optimal condition even if other contributing factors like moderately intense exercise or petsitter visits during the day.
How do Bichons die?
They die of heart failure, and it’s usually caused by weakening valves.
Why are Bichons so needy?
People falsely associate being submissive with being needy. They are not always the same thing. Some of the most dominant dogs among pet breeds are also some of the neediest dog breeds. Bichons Frises have a natural disposition as “velcro” dog breeds, and they tend to want to be close to their people all of the time–that’s just what they are genetically programmed for!
Is a Bichon Frise a good first dog?
A Bichon Frise is the perfect first dog for any family. These dogs are always happy and will make great companions! They don’t shed much, so that’s one less thing to worry about when cleaning up after them too. Bichon Frise makes the perfect dog breed for a first-time owner.
Do Bichon Frise pee alot?
You bet they do! They often like to keep inside the home. If you have a Bichon, chances are it will urinate and go potty mostly at your house.
How old is the oldest Bichon Frise?
The oldest Bichon Frise on record was 19 years old. This dog, found in North America, lived to be the longest living of its kind.
Why should I not buy a Bichon Frise?
People often buy Bichon Frise because they think the dogs are cute, which is understandable. However, several health conditions occur in Bichon Frise, and it’s not always evident until after you’ve purchased one. For instance, even though its genetic history is unknown, eye diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) have been found and diagnosed in American Kennel Club registered Bichons. Additionally, torsion of the testicles has also been found in show-quality males; this can lead to severe painful scrotal swelling if it goes untreated or is misdiagnosed.
How can I make my Bichon Frise happy?
There are many ways to ensure that your pup is going about their day with a smile on their face. You could enroll them in dog training classes or get them socialized early, so they’re more comfortable around other animals and humans alike! Another great way of making sure your pup stays healthy and happy is by getting lots of exercises every day – even if it’s just for an hour walk each morning before work; allow him to stretch his legs.
Does Bichon Frise get separation anxiety?
It is natural for Bichon Frise to feel some level of anxiety when left alone. Some breeds need more time and attention than others to make it past this point. This can be eased in several ways, including by training them to get used to or placing their crate near your desk so they are close enough that you can see them.
Is a Bichon Frise a lap dog?
When you’re looking for a dog that can keep up with your busy lifestyle, there is no better option than the Bichon Frise. These fluffy balls of fluff are perfect companions because they have an easy-going temperament and love to cuddle on laps! So if you want something adorable but also want to be able to travel or enjoy some outdoor activity without having it slow you down too much, then this breed would make an excellent choice.
Things To Take Care Of
Initially, you need to supervise your dog as you would a child. Be mindful of everything they are doing, right from their food to their playtimes to their hygiene and grooming requirements. These are happy dogs that crave attention and activity which is easy to provide, given some planning. Start the training early and keep it constant. The Bichon Frise is one of the best companions you could ask for and it will be your personal sunshine in the house.
Bezawada sunny says:
I want this puppy any another colour you had
Jasbir says:
Want to buy Bichon pup in delhi