Allergies – This breed is prone to skin issues and can have serious skin reactions to fleas and can experience itchy skin in the drier months.

Hip Dysplasia – This common health issue can cause swelling and pain and is a result of the hip joint becoming loose, which can lead to arthritic changes.

Urolithiasis – This is generally minor conditionan and it is a urinary tract disorder that can result in kidney stones.

The Bichon Frise has a pure white double-coat that has a soft undercoat and a rough outer coat which together forms a dense fur that needs looking after. For this reason, they need regular brushing and bathing to keep their white coat looking pristine. This breed is also prone to tear stains that will need to be cleaned regularly. The great news is this dog is a low shedding breed which means even when you brush your pet, you won’t have to worry about cleaning up dog hair from your sofa, carpets or clothing. A six-weekly grooming appointment with a professional groomer will keep your Bichon Frise looking immaculate.

Compared with other breeds, the Bichon Frise requires less exercise and will be happy with one 30-minute walk per day. This means they are well suited to less active owners, but while they require less exercise than some breeds, this doesn’t mean they want to live a sedentary lifestyle. Bichon Frise dogs love to play and enjoy tug of war as well as playing with other chew toys at home which is a great form of mental stimulation.

Bichon Frise dogs generally have a long lifespan and live on average around 12 to 15 years. This is a huge benefit for owners looking for a long-term companion.

Bichon Frise dogs thrive on company and don’t like to be left alone, making them the ideal companion for older dog owners who can give them the time and attention they need. As a Bichon owner, you will notice that your pet will gravitate towards the rooms in your home with people in them and as you go from one room to another, this breed will always be by your side.

Bichon Frise dogs are eager to please and willing to learn which makes training them a breeze. Training your Bichon Frise early on will prevent any issues later down the line such as lots of barking as this breed can be quite vocal. Bichon Frise dogs aren’t as easy to house train as other breeds so be prepared to be patient. They excel at learning tricks and respond well to positive reinforcement.

Like all breeds, Bichon Frise dogs deserve the best care, and considering pet insurance can help to provide cover against those unexpected vet bills. Take a look at Asda Money Pet Insurance to find out more and see your cover options.