With human-like eyes the Bichon Frise is one of the most adorable companion dogs around. This little mischievous loyal friend enlightens the lives of all those who invite them into their loving homes. Always happy and eager to please and play.
Lifespan | 12-15 years |
Temperament | Friendly & Alert |
Suitable | A great family addition to active households and individuals. |
Health | Generally healthy breed but can be prone to certain health complaints. |
COMMON CLAIMS | MAXIMUM CLAIM |
---|---|
Tissue Damage or Fracture | $3,971.37 |
Anal Sac Disorder | $416.00 |
Diabetes | $9,863.00 |
Ear Conditions | $465.45 |
Endocrine Disease – Adrenal | $538.00 |
Eye Conditions | $829.40 |
Gastrointestinal Tract Condition | $3,190.42 |
Heart Condition | $3,120.55 |
Arthritis | $399.00 |
Cruciate Ligament | $4,685.70 |
*Pet Insurance Australia Data 2022/2023
The Bichon Frise is very easy to train. However, it’s not the ease of the training for this breed, but more the motivation of owners to train their little dog. With such an adorable manner it’s easy to by-pass training for a cuddle instead! However, like all dogs it’s important you train your wee pup particularly for manners and a strong recall command. They thrive with consistent training and excel in learning new tricks. Like with all breeds, early socialisation with as many sights, sounds and experiences is critical in growing a well-rounded and accepting dog. Puppy-preschools are also a great way to introduce your pup to basic training and lots of other puppies to play with in a safe and secure environment.
Bichons are not big shedders; however, they will require a good maintenance grooming schedule to keep their double coat in good condition and free of painful tangles and matts. If you do not have the time to dedicate to grooming this is not the breed for you. The Bichon Frise will also need frequent bathing to keep the coat and face looking white and clean. Many owners take their adorable dogs to professional groomers regularly for clipping and cutting around every four to six weeks. This type of cost needs to be considered before purchasing the breed.
Your pet’s health is priceless. Don’t leave it up to chance.
Like with any breed of dog, health conditions can vary. The great news is that Bichon Frise are generally considered a relatively healthy and robust breed. However, there are some common health concerns that the breed could be prone to including:
Don’t be fooled by size, your wee Bichon Frise does require a good dose of daily exercise. A brisk walk once a day can suffice to keep your little dog happy and healthy. This combined with some fun games will keep your dog entertained and out of trouble. They also excel in obedience sports such as agility. Anything that your pup can do to work alongside you, they will love.
Being highly intelligent the Bichon Frise is a master at learning new tricks and games. They are known for suffering from separation anxiety as they just know when their ‘best-friends’ are not around. For this reason, it’s important to consider boredom busters or ‘fun games’ for when you are not at home, or even consider enrolling your pup in a doggy day care facility. As with all dogs; boredom, a lack of exercise and training, and too much time alone, can equal a recipe for disaster and destruction. So always consider this before purchasing any dog.
The Bichon makes a wonderful family companion and loves being the centre of attention. However, due to their small size it’s important to teach children not to carry your pup (sitting cuddles only). Like with all dogs it’s recommended to train your dog how to correctly behave around children and also teach your children how to correctly interact with a dog. All play sessions and cuddles need to be supervised, especially with young children. They are very tolerant with the nose and fun of children and will love having a constant companion to follow and play with. The breed also adapts well to life with other pets.
This is not the type of breed you leave outside for a long period of time. They do not take well to being left alone and will pine for their loving owners to return. The Bichon Frise makes a great apartment dwelling dog or small residences. Like with all breeds they will require good shelter from all types of weather and ample shade in the summer and warmth in the winter. Certainly, an indoor residing dog that simply blossoms with attention, companionship and love.
It is very important to only source your new family member from a reputable breeding establishment, to ensure your puppy is healthy. Ask all the important questions about hereditary problems and ask to see mum and dad. Contact your local breed club and research your chosen breeder. Your breeder should have proof that they regularly test their dogs for genetic diseases and to ensure that the dogs they are breeding from have sound temperaments. It may take a little more time than a quick purchase, but it can save you and your family from unimaginable heartache and pain dealing with a sick puppy.
PIA is a family owned pet insurance company for Australia, and we have a long and successful history of helping owners care for their Bichon Frises. Contact us today to learn more about our range of simple, flexible and affordable cover options.
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Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time prior to 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436, arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted, distributed and arranged by PetSure’s Authorised Representative (AR) Pet Insurance Australia Pty Ltd ABN 85 113 507 850, AR 326233 (PIA). Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time on or after 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure and promoted, distributed and arranged by PetSure’s AR, PIA. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. PDS and Target Market Determination available at petinsuranceaustralia.com.au.
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