The Bichon Frise is undeniably an adorable little dog. They’re known for their white, silky coats that have tight corkscrew curls. Although no dog is truly hypoallergenic, these dogs don’t tend to shed very much. If you have allergies but still desperately want a dog, this is the kind of coat you want on yours! They’re usually very small, though it’s not uncommon to see a male dog that’s a tad larger than you might expect.
The great thing about the Bichon Frise is that they’re a good beginner dog. Breeders intended for them to be companion dogs, not working dogs, which makes them relatively low-maintenance as a whole. They’re affectionate and lively, but tend to be pretty chilled out both at home and around strangers. They do need playtime and space to run around to keep them happy, but their energy needs are much lower than most dogs and they’ll be happy with some time spent on the couch cuddling.
Although they’re intelligent, the fact they’re so small means you need to have some patience with potty training. Small dogs like this often take some time to gain full bladder control so your best bet is patience. Ignore any accidents they have indoors and heavily praise them when they go outside. Give them plenty of opportunity too — young puppies often need to be taken out every thirty minutes, as painful as that sounds to remember! Setting alarms can help.
Bichon Frise – Find A Responsible Breeder
If you’re looking for a good starter dog that may not affect your allergies, the Bichon Frise is a good call. Just be careful, as puppy mills often churn out these dogs because they’re highly desirable. Make sure you’re purchasing from a responsible and ethical breeder, as this will guarantee you a well-socialized and healthy pup.
