The Bichon Frize has been a popular choice in the past, consistently on and off the most popular family dog lists. Once again, the Bichon is one of the top 10 family dogs. A small dog that is generally good with children and a lot of fun! They can bark a lot, but can also be trained to be quiet when commanded. They require minimal to moderate exercise and would rate moderate to high maintenance for grooming. These sweet little dogs love to sit on your lap at night, while you enjoy tea and a good book.
Bichon Frize wants to impress you
The Bichon Frize has a unique personality trait. Many owners refer to him as “Bichon Buzz” or “Bichon Blitz”. During a “Buzz” or “Blitz”, the Bichon Frize runs around the house or garden in a crazy burst of excitement. In some cases, this includes jumping and bouncing off furniture and running from room to room or place to place for no reason, just a spontaneous thrill! Barking often accompanies this behavior, but it is a cutting joy. Each “Buzz” or “Blitz” is unique for only those who witness it to see!
Bichon Frises love to be the center of attention and their goal is to please. They love to make you laugh.
Grooming and grooming the Bichon Frize coat
The Bichon Frize is also reported to be hypoallergenic. However, allergies can vary considerably by individual, so while the breed may be easy for some people with allergies to pet dander, this breed may not be ideal for everyone with allergies to pet dander. pets. These dogs shed, but regular grooming keeps it to a minimum and is therefore less likely to aggravate allergies.
Owners suggest brushing the dog daily and getting a professional bath, cleaning, and grooming every three months. The eyes need daily cleaning to clean the tear stains that appear on the delicate white fur of dogs. This dog is time consuming on a daily basis and is best for families who can afford the time to properly care for it. Having older children to share responsibly is recommended rather than having children who are still young enough to require a lot of care themselves.
Bichons are suitable apartment dogs, but they still need a long daily walk to help burn off all their energy!
Bichon Frize: the popular cartoon dog?
The Bichon Frize is a small dog whose breed originated in Spain and Belgium and later moved to France. The name Bichon Frize in French means “curly lap dog.” This hypoallergenic, non-shedding breed is noted for being of medium-high intellect, making them easier to train and excellent companion dogs that interact well with children and other animals.
The Bichon descends from the Water Spaniel and was used in trade by Spanish sailors as they traveled the continents. In the 1300s, the breed was highly appreciated by Italian sailors and the Bichon Frize became popular with the Italian nobility.
Since the days of sailing, the bichon has loved the water and retrieval games, and is a great companion to humans. The breed was very successful in France during the Renaissance period, worshiped by King Francis I in 1515-1547 and also by King Henry III in 1574-1589. On March 5, 1933, the thoroughbreds were accepted into the Societe Centrale Canine, in France.
Anyone familiar with the “Tintin” books would know of the little white dog named “Milou” or “Snowy”. The breed was recognized in Australia in the 1960s and was brought to the United States in 1955. Purebred Bichon Frize were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1973.
Bichon Frize health
Although most dogs will be healthy, this breed is predisposed to some health problems. Asking about the health status of your dogs with breeders or shelter staff is the best way to purchase a dog in optimal health. Follow up regularly with a trusted vet to help maximize your dog’s longevity. Some of the common health problems in the Bichon Frize breed can include:
Cancers – Usually occurs in aged Bichons and can affect multiple organs. It can be treated with chemotherapy and / or radiation, but it may not be curable. Only a veterinarian can offer the best advice for treatment and prognosis based on the individual dog, the type of cancer, and the severity of the cancer at the time of diagnosis.
Liver failure: can be treated with diet modifications and medication if necessary. It usually occurs as a consequence of a liver shunt.
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA): can be congenital or caused by a toxin or parasite. The condition causes the dog’s body to not recognize its own red blood cells. Therefore, the dog’s immune system destroys the red blood cells in a failed attempt at self-defense. Anemia occurs. The condition can be treated with medication, blood transfusion, or surgical removal of the dog’s spleen. This condition may not always be curable.
Immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an inherited disorder in which the dog has low levels of platelets, which are blood cells responsible for the formation of blood clots. Dogs with ITP are at increased risk of bleeding and cannot clot when injured. Some dogs develop minor bleeding such as nosebleeds with long bleeding times, and in some cases the disorder is severe, leading to internal bleeding that can become a major medical emergency. Treatment for ITP consists of medications and blood transfusions, but there is no cure. Develop a good relationship with a veterinarian and consult with that veterinarian constantly to maximize your dogs’ symptomatic treatment options.
All breeds are susceptible to specific disorders. Each race can be affected to varying degrees. The idea of listing the common diseases of each breed is not to discourage you from wanting a specific breed if you find it perfect for your family; but to help you better prepare for your dog’s future health. In addition to providing you with the necessary knowledge to get a dog in the best optimal health.
Like people, it is not possible to predict what the health of a dog will be throughout its life. As with people, some are very healthy with only mild and acute health care needs, while others develop chronic problems that need lifelong care. Others may need emergency medical attention due to accidents, illness, or injury.
Some people chose to monitor their dog’s health with the FitBark, a discreet, wearable device that constantly monitors your dog’s activity, sleep and nutrition, and is breed specific. FitBark easily pairs with your Fitbit, Apple Watch, HealthKit, or Google Fit device to monitor progress. Researchers and veterinarians have developed a unique algorithm to provide you with real-time quantitative data on your dog’s health. Great for finding out how your dog is really feeling and making it easy to communicate during follow-up vet appointments.
I encourage owners to develop a strong relationship with an ongoing vet that both the owner and the dog can bond with. Proper medical care is an inexpensive expense, but a necessity for being a responsible dog owner.