Companion Dogs
Bichon Frise
Reviewed to our editorial standards · Updated 2026-06-12
Size
Small
Life Span
12 to 15 years
Weight
7 to 12 pounds
Height
9 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder
Breed Group
Companion Dogs
Adaptability
Friendliness
Trainability
Energy
Health
Intelligence
Bichon Frise — Key Facts
About the Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small companion dog known for being deeply loving with its family and outgoing and sociable. With a highly intelligent mind, well-suited to apartment living, the Bichon Frise is an excellent choice for first-time dog owners. Typically standing 9 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 7 to 12 pounds, this breed has a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years, making it a long-lived companion for the right family.
Originally classified within the Companion Dogs group, the Bichon Frise brings a distinct combination of traits that sets it apart. The Bichon Frise is a high-energy breed that thrives with plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Deeply affectionate, the Bichon Frise loves being close to its people and forms strong bonds with every member of the household.
Temperament
The Bichon Frise has a famously warm and sociable temperament that makes it highly attuned to its family's emotions and moods. The Bichon Frise is famously gentle and patient with children of all ages, making it a wonderful family dog. The Bichon Frise tends to love the company of other dogs and typically does well in multi-pet households.
Friendly and open with new people, the Bichon Frise rarely meets a stranger it doesn't like. This breed tends to be quiet and won't alert you to every passing noise. This breed has a low wanderlust potential and is unlikely to roam. A strong prey drive means the Bichon Frise should be kept on a lead around wildlife and small pets.
Health & Lifespan
With a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years, the Bichon Frise is a long-lived breed — a serious commitment. The Bichon Frise is considered a robust, healthy breed with fewer inherited conditions than many pedigrees.
Common health areas to discuss with your vet include joint health (hip and elbow dysplasia), dental hygiene, eye health, and routine parasite prevention including flea, tick, and heartworm. The Bichon Frise can be prone to weight gain. Measure meals carefully, limit treats, and ensure adequate daily exercise to keep them at a healthy weight. Annual wellness bloodwork — including a complete blood count and biochemistry panel — is recommended from middle age onward to catch conditions like hypothyroidism, kidney disease, and diabetes early. Pet insurance is strongly recommended from puppyhood.
Is this breed right for you?
The Bichon Frise is one of the most approachable breeds for first-time owners who can provide regular daily exercise and mental engagement. Compact living spaces are no problem for this breed.
The Bichon Frise handles alone time well and is less likely to develop separation anxiety. The Bichon Frise manages moderate climates comfortably. The Bichon Frise tolerates heat well, though fresh water and shade should always be available.
In summary, the Bichon Frise is a sociable and loving companion dogs that fits well into a variety of households. Do thorough research, meet the breed in person if possible, and connect with a reputable breeder or rescue before bringing a Bichon Frise home.
Helpful Tools
Care Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bichon Frise good with kids?
The Bichon Frise is known for being patient and gentle with children of all ages, making it a popular family choice.
How much exercise does a Bichon Frise need?
A Bichon Frise needs around 45–60 minutes of exercise daily. A mix of walks, off-lead play, and mental stimulation keeps them balanced and well-behaved.
Does the Bichon Frise shed a lot?
No — the Bichon Frise is a minimal shedder, making it a popular option for households concerned about allergies or keeping the home clean.
Own a Bichon Frise?
Track health records, set care reminders, and connect with other Bichon Frise owners in Hushku.