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Bichon Frise Temperament & Personality Traits

Dr Shamsul Alam Roky
Reviewed by:
Dr. Shamsul Alam Roky
Veterinarian

A perfect lapdog, the Bichon Frise is a fiercely loving pooch known for its interesting history and, most noticeably, its adorably inquisitive face and fluffy white coat. A descendant of the Water Spaniel, the Bichon Frise originates from the Mediterranean, with some believing it started along the sunshine shores of the Canary Islands. As a pet that is so highly adored, what is it about its personality that makes it so well-loved?

If you’re as enamoured by these sweet and friendly dogs as most are, then read on to learn more about the qualities you can expect when raising a Bichon Frise.

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Bichon Frise Main Personality Traits

The Bichon Frise temperament is a repertoire of gentle-mannered affection and people-pleasing tendencies. With its powder-puff coat and plumed tail, you’d easily mistake them for a stuffed animal.

Originally bred as sailing dogs, French breeders turned these pooches into the adorable lap dogs they are today. They’re always excited at the prospect of playing, cuddling, and learning – turning especially bright-eyed when treats are dished out.

Fiercely loving

The Bichon is a lover of attention and feeling special. A popular and beloved favourite to King Henry III, Bichon Frise dogs were once royal lap warmers and noble companions. Fiercely loving of their owners, it’s no wonder these small dogs shot into popularity.

Playful

In the late 1800s, after they fell from noble laps, Bichons became circus dogs due to their fun-loving nature and easy trainability. So it’s no wonder these dogs are born entertainers that constantly look for ways to please not only their owners but strangers as well.

Gentle

A playful yet gentle dog, Bichon Frises always remains alert and curious. A new face is merely a new friend they haven’t met yet, so bringing new people around is an easy-going experience with the Bichon.
 

Bichon Frises and Your Family

This breed group has a long history as a family dog, specifically in French, Italian, Belgium and Spanish homes. The Bichon Frise thrive in companionships and make for a wonderful family pet.

Can Bichons live with other dogs?

The dogs’ playful and loving nature is not only reserved for people but for other dogs too. Bichons do well with dog breeds of the same temperament as them. Moreover, size does not intimidate this small dog – to the Bichon Frise dog; larger breeds are merely another friend.

Can Bichons live with other pets?

The age-old stigma that cats and dogs don’t get along is not applied to the Bichon. Socialising your Bichon the right way can make them great playmates for other pets.

Can Bichons live with kids?

Due to the Bichon Frise’s sociable temperament and sweet nature, these dogs are great around children. However, the right training and socialisation are key in ensuring this dog doesn’t become snappy when irritated.
 

Do Bichon Frises Have Any Behavioural Issues?

Although a relatively happy dog, Bichon frises can have behavioural issues, namely excessive barking, begging, and destructive chewing. How this dog behaves is determined by how you raise and train it.

When receiving your Bichon puppy, begin with crate training and enrol them in a puppy kindergarten class, as these dogs can be a tough breed to housebreak.
 

FAQs

Can Bichons be left alone?

As Bichon Frise’s are companion dogs, they can be prone to separation anxiety when left alone for long periods of time. Although an adult dog can manage, Bichon Frise puppies should never be left alone.

Do Bichons bark a lot?

Even though Bichon Frises may bark a lot, the Bichon Frise dog breed is not typically the barking type. It’s natural for all dogs to bark, but Bichons are not yappy little dogs, and when they are, it usually indicates excitement, anxiety, or fear.

Are Bichons active dogs?

Regular exercise and training are important, even for this couch potato dog. With a big personality in a small body, you’ll often see a flash of white running around your home when the zoomies kick in.
 

Final Thoughts on Bichon Frise Temperament & Personality

If you’re looking to add a Bichon Frise puppy to your home, know you’ll find a dog with exceptional companionship and a lot to offer. When it comes to procuring this pup, look towards a local rescue group or a reputable breeder.

With a life span of 15+, you can expect many years of cuddles and energy. Moreover, Bichon’s intelligence and enthusiasm are great for novice pet parents, and once around, it doesn’t take long to realise why this little dog is a great fit for any home.

You can learn more about the breed from the Bichon Frise Club of America, or the American Kennel Club, providing you with all breed-specific information.

Learn more about: Bichon Frise Dog Breed Information

Other helpful information

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