Bichon Frises

Bichon Frises Puppies - Appearance

Picture source:
Leeward's Bichons

Bichon Frises are Toy Dogs that serve mainly as companions. Their appealing appearance and amiable personality allow them to be used as therapy dogs. As a rule, the Bichon Frise weighs about 10-18 pounds. The Bichon Frise AKC standard does not fix any limits for the breed's weight though. As for the height, it should be from 9 to 12 inches. However, many Bichon Frise owners prefer having dogs that are from 9 to 11 inches in height.

Bichon Frises can hardly be confused with other breeds of dog thanks to their marvelous snow-white coat. It is soft and fluffy, and has both the undercoat and the outer coat. The undercoat is usually silky in texture. The outer coat should be neither flat like in the Yorkshire Terrier, nor wavy like in the Puli.

Though the Bichon Frise is white, some areas of fawn are allowed on the condition they do not cover more than 10% of the dog's body. Bichon Frise puppies under the age of 12 months can have some markings of apricot and cream colors.

Bichon Frises have round eyes that are always dark in color. So are the eyelids. The Bichon's muzzle is shorter than the skull. Long ears are covered with curly hairs at the end. The tail is carried over the back.

Bichon Frises Puppies - Personality Traits

Picture source:
Leeward's Bichons

Bichons are known for their friendly personality and a wonderful ability to adapt to new conditions and various situations. These dogs are rated excellent with children and make good playmates for other dogs. However, introducing a Bichon Frise to a home with a bigger dog without preliminary introductions should be avoided.

Generally, Bichons are very sociable dogs. They need a great deal of interaction and a home is preferable to a backyard. When bored, a Bichon Frise will find something to keep busy with. Stuffed toys, shoes, and other objects inside can draw a Bichon Frise puppy's attention. To prevent accidents, try to keep valuable items out of its reach.

Bichon Frises Puppies - Exercise Needs

The Bichon Frise is an inquisitive creature that will gladly explore your neighbor's backyard or other surroundings. However, they do not require long walks and can get their portion of exercise indoors or during training.

Bichon Frises Puppies - Choosing Puppies

Picture source:
Leeward's Bichons

Bichon Frise litters are not numerous. The number of puppies can vary from 1 to 6. The average litter size is usually 3-5 puppies. Reputable Bichon Frise owners will not sell a puppy until it is about 1.5-2 months old. They will also give you advice on choosing a Bichon Frise puppy.

Your choice is likely to depend on personality traits of a puppy and future activities you are planning for your Bichon Frise. You may want to show your dog in a few months. The best choice for you is a Bichon Frise puppy that fits well with the breed standard.

Puppies that do not follow the AKC standard are usually spayed/neutered. It does not mean, however, that a puppy is affected or is of a poor quality. The chief concern of a breeder in this case is the breed's improvement. Spayed/neutered Bichon Frises also make wonderful pets and have all the main characteristics peculiar to the breed.