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Toy · France

Bichon Frise

A walker's guide to the Bichon Frise: how much exercise they need, what to expect on and off the lead, and what to ask the owner before the first walk.

Small, 5 to 8 kgEasy-goingCompanion dogWhite curly coatLow sheddingSociable
Exercise a day45 min
Energy2 of 5
Walk styleCheerful potter
With other dogsFriendly and playful

Overview

The Bichon Frise is a small white companion breed with roots in the Mediterranean, popular with European nobility for centuries and now one of the most common small dogs in British homes. It has a soft, curly double coat, a plumed tail and a face that seems permanently pleased to see you.

Bichons are sociable, playful and happy in company. They are easy dogs to walk in most respects, and the main considerations are the coat, the small size and the breed's dislike of being left out of things.

Exercise and walking needs

Forty-five minutes a day across two walks suits most adults. They enjoy a brisk potter with plenty of sniffing and will manage a longer country walk if the ground is not too rough or muddy.

Play is as important as distance. A short game of chase or fetch in a safe space burns energy and makes the dog happy.

Daily minimum45 minutes
Ideal2 walks a day
Off-lead timeEnclosed areas

On the walk

  • Recall: Reasonable in a safe space, though a Bichon prefers to be near people and is rarely far away. Not a big chaser.
  • Other dogs: Friendly, bouncy and keen to play. Size is the risk; a rough larger dog can hurt a Bichon without meaning to.
  • Coat: White and curly means it shows every mark and holds mud and wet. Owners spend a lot on grooming and will notice.
  • Lead manners: Light and pleasant on a harness. A collar can damage the small neck if the dog pulls.
  • Weather: The coat is warm enough for most days, but a wet Bichon chills quickly and the coat takes time to dry.

Tips for professional walkers

  1. Choose dry paths over muddy fields and carry a towel for paws and belly.
  2. Pair with calm or similarly sized dogs on group walks and watch for over-exuberant play.
  3. Keep treats tiny; small dogs gain weight on very little.
  4. Note any tear staining, eye redness or skin irritation in your report; owners of this breed watch for them.
Every dog is an individual. Treat this as a starting point and go with what the owner tells you about their dog. Anything to do with health belongs with the owner and their vet.

What to ask the owner

  • How does the owner want the coat handled after a wet or muddy walk?
  • Any skin allergies or dietary restrictions that affect treats?
  • Is the dog happy being picked up, and would the owner prefer you carry it across busy roads?
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