Non-Sporting Group
Bichon Frise
Champion Pedigree
Playful
Low-Shedding
Companion
A small, cheerful companion breed with a distinctive powder-puff white coat, the Bichon Frise was a favorite of French and Spanish royalty for centuries. Playful and affectionate, it remains a popular choice for allergy-sensitive households thanks to its low-shedding coat.
Lifespan
14–15 years.
Did You Know?
The breed’s name translates roughly to "curly lap dog" in French, a nod to its dense, curled coat.
Breed Traits
Size
9.5–11.5 in. tall, 12–18 lbs.
Energy Level
Moderate — playful and enjoys short walks and games.
Coat & Grooming
Curly, dense, low-shedding coat; requires regular brushing and professional grooming.
Good With Families
Affectionate and gentle, generally excellent with children and other pets.
Registry Record
Also Known As
Bichon
Origin
Mediterranean region, popularized in France and Spain.
Typical Litter Size
4 to 6 puppies.
Club Recognitions
AKC, FCI, KC (UK), CKC
Disposition
Cheerful, sociable, and eager to please; can develop separation anxiety without gradual alone-time training.
Coat Colors
White, sometimes with cream or apricot shading.
Working Roles
Historically a companion and performing dog for European nobility and circus acts.
Health & Wellness
Generally healthy and long-lived, though dental crowding, allergies, and a bladder condition are worth screening for.
Notable Bichon Frises
Royal Companions
Documented as a favorite lapdog of French and Spanish royal courts for centuries.
Circus Performers
The breed’s trainability made it a popular circus and street-performance dog historically.
Registry Champions
A consistent presence in the toy and non-sporting show rings.
Related Reading
Bichon Frise Gifts
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