Bichons are upbeat, people-loving charmers that fit apartments and families alike and barely shed — but that curly coat mats easily and needs regular professional grooming. They’re smart and trainable (house-training takes patience) and crave company, disliking long hours alone. Sociable, gentle and long-lived, with a tendency to the zoomies they call ‘blitzing’. A delightful companion for an engaged, present home.
Bichon Frise
- Vet-reviewed by Dr. Amara Okafor, DVM
- Last updated June 2, 2026
Breed character
A bouncy white powder-puff with a sunny, irrepressible disposition — cheerful, affectionate and famous for charming absolutely everyone.
Temperament
- Cheerful
- Affectionate
- Playful
- Gentle
- Sociable
Likes
- Being with their people
- Play and 'blitz' zoomies
- Meeting new friends
- Cuddles and lap time
Dislikes
- Being left alone
- Skipped grooming (mats fast)
- Boredom
- Harsh handling
Habits & quirks
- The famous 'bichon blitz' (joy zoomies)
- Following their family around
- Charming visitors instantly
- Needing frequent grooming
Great for
- Apartments and families
- Allergy-conscious owners (low-shed)
- First-time owners
- People home often
Think twice if…
- Homes empty all day
- Owners unwilling to budget for grooming
- People wanting a low-maintenance coat
- Very rough households
Bichon Frise: quick answers
How big does the Bichon Frise get?
An adult Bichon Frise typically weighs 5–10 kg and stands around 23–30 cm at the shoulder — a small breed.
How long does the Bichon Frise live?
14–15 years is typical for the Bichon Frise. Weight, genetics and routine veterinary care all move the needle — regular check-ups matter at every age.
Is the Bichon Frise good with kids?
The Bichon Frise rates 5/5 on our family-friendliness scale — one of the stronger choices for homes with children. Early socialisation and supervision still matter far more than breed for any dog around kids.
Does the Bichon Frise shed a lot?
Not much — the Bichon Frise is a light shedder (1/5 on our scale), one of the easier breeds for keeping hair under control.
Is the Bichon Frise easy to train?
Yes — the Bichon Frise rates 4/5 for trainability. It’s a quick study that responds well to short, consistent, reward-based sessions.
Can the Bichon Frise live in an apartment?
Yes — the Bichon Frise can do well in an apartment as long as its exercise needs are met with daily walks and play.
Is this the right breed for you?
Take the 3-minute Breed Match — a few honest questions about your home, time and energy, and a shortlist of dogs that genuinely fit your life.
Compare the Bichon Frise with…
All comparisonsThe Bichon Frise also appears in
Care, gear & guides
Guides for this breed are coming soon.
