🐾 Small · France

Bichon Frise: Size, Weight & Temperament

A cheerful, adaptable companion dog with a curly white coat that seeks close family bonds and adapts well to apartment living.

Beginner-friendly
Bichon Frise dog breed portrait
Photo: Heike Andres · CC BY-SA 3.0 de · Wikimedia Commons
Weight male5–7 kg
Weight female5–7 kg
Shoulder height23–30 cm
Size classSmall (under 12 kg)
Fully grownat approx. 12 months
Life expectancy12–15 years
Activity levelModerate
OriginFrance
ClassificationFCI Group 9 (Companion and Toy Dogs), Section 1 (Bichons and Related Breeds)
Temperament & character

The Bichon Frise is considered friendly, playful, and rarely aggressive toward people or other dogs. It seeks close contact with its family and tolerates being alone only in moderation.

Exercise & stimulation

Exercise needs are moderate and can be met with daily walks and play sessions. The Bichon also suits quieter households, as long as mental stimulation is not neglected.

Grooming

The curly coat grows continuously rather than shedding and must be clipped every six to eight weeks and brushed in between to prevent matting. The eye and tear-stain area should be checked regularly.

Suitable for beginners?

The Bichon Frise is considered well suited for beginners, being adaptable, friendly, and without a strong prey drive. Regular coat-care effort should nonetheless be planned for from the start.

Health & common problems

Breed-typical conditions include patellar luxation, tear duct problems, and allergic skin conditions, along with some predisposition to urinary stones. Regular coat care and veterinary eye checks are recommended.

Good with: Families, seniors, and apartment living

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This information is for general guidance and does not replace veterinary or breeder advice. Temperament and health vary individually within every breed.