10 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Bichon Frise Dogs

The Bichon Frise are cute, fluffy dogs that are not only popular, but amazingly unique. Do you own a Bichon or plan on buying one? Or just want to know more about this interesting breed?

Read on to learn 10 things you probably didn’t know about the breed, and why you’d want to check your priorities before buying one!

Fact #1: The “Bichon Frise” name is pronounced in French

The proper way to pronounce this breed, according to Merriam-Webster, is bee-shon free-zay. And the name was derived from the French bichon à poil frisé, which means “curly haired small dog” in English.

Fancy right? But ironically…

Fact #2: They were originally used as sailing dogs in Spain

Although their name sounds French, Spaniards used Bichon Frise as ship dogs. They were used by the Spanish sailors to greet people as barter because of their naturally lively temperament.

The Spanish sailors then introduced the breed to Tenerife in the Canary Islands, where they flourished.

Fact #3: They don’t like water too much

This is the same reason why Spanish sailors found the Bichon Frise as the perfect working boat dogs. They don’t like water too much, and on top of that, did not require that much exercise, were non-shedding, and had a friendly temperament.

While Bichon Frise are not natural swimmers like other dog breeds, they can learn to enjoy the water with proper guidance and training.

Fact #4: They don’t bark often

Unlike Siberian Huskies that are notorious for their barking and howling, Bichon Frise dogs don’t bark so much.

Thanks to this, the breed make great pets for apartment-living. They are typically quiet dogs and will only bark when absolutely necessary.

Although, for the same reason, you can not expect them to be good guard dogs!

Fact #5: They’re great travel companions

Are you the type of person who enjoys travelling? Well, say hello to your new travel buddy! Bichon Frise make great travel companions!

Because of their history, coupled with the fact that they’re small and don’t bark so much, you can easily bring them on your travels unlike other dog breeds.

Fact #6: They’re a hypoallergenic breed

If you have allergies but still want to own a dog, then you’re in for a treat because Bichon Frise dogs are a hypoallergenic breed!

This breed has a unique coat that’s double-layered. Yes, they shed, but not as much, and therefore do not produce as much allergens in their hair compared to other breeds.

Fact #7: They’re high-maintenance dogs

Their fluffy, white coat makes them a high-maintenance dog because they need to constantly be brushed and groomed. There’s no doubt that they’re cute dogs, but you need to have enough time to maintain them if you want to own one. 

Fact #8: The longest living Bichon Frise was 19 years old

Smaller dogs have a longer life expectancy compared to bigger breeds. And a Bichon Frise has a life expectancy of 17 years! With the longest living Bichon Frise found in North America and have lived for 19 long years!

But of course, every Bichon Frise is unique, and their life span will depend on the environment as well.

Fact #9: They’re always white

All Bichon Frises are completely white. They may have specs of apricot, buff or cream by the ears, but their bodies are all white. They have no other colors or patterns.

Fact #10: They are the subject of many famous artists

These dogs were widely famous in France and Italy before that they were painted by many famous artists such as Albrecht Dürer and Auguste Renoir. 

And there you have it! Which fact shocked you the most?

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