Breed facts
| FCI group | Group 9: Companion and toy dogs |
| Origin | France |
| Weight | 5–8 kg |
| Height | 23–30 cm |
| Life expectancy | 14–16 years |
Temperament
Cheerful, playful and affectionate, it loves company and adapts well to apartment life.
History
It descends from the old Mediterranean bichons and was highly prized at European courts.
Fun facts
“Frisé” comes from French and means “curly”, a reference to the coat.
The Bichon Frise coat
A curly or wavy coat that sheds little but tangles and mats if not brushed.
The white curly coat stains around the eyes and mouth; scissor cutting gives the classic powder-puff look.
What we do in the salon
We bathe, dry and brush thoroughly, then do a clipper-and-scissor trim or a scissor-only cut, as you prefer (breed clip or practical).
Recommended services
- Bathabout 1 h
- Clipper & scissor trimabout 2 h
- Scissor cutabout 2 h
How often?
| Bath | every 3 to 4 weeks |
| Cut / upkeep | A cut every 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the style. |
Special attention
Tear stains: wipe the area every day with a damp cloth or pad; light coats stain easily.
Care at home between visits
- Brush thoroughly 2 to 3 times a week, down to the skin, not just the surface.
- Check behind the ears, armpits and paws, where the coat mats fastest.
- Wipe around the eyes with a damp cloth to prevent staining.
- Don't put off the cut: a badly matted coat may need a short clip.
Frequently asked questions about the Bichon Frise
Does the Bichon Frise shed a lot?
It sheds little. Even so, the coat can tangle or build up, so it should be brushed regularly.
How often should I bring my Bichon Frise to the salon?
In general, a bath every 3 to 4 weeks. A cut every 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the style. It depends on the coat, the cut you like and the condition of the coat: we will advise you at the first visit.
How long do a bath and a clip take?
When you book online, 1 hour is reserved for a bath and 2 hours for a clip, scissor cut or hand stripping. Very dense coats or large breeds may need more time: talk to us.
Can I keep the coat long?
Yes, but it needs deep, regular brushing. If the coat starts to mat, a shorter cut is best so the skin is not hurt.
Weight and height values are approximate and vary from dog to dog. Based on FCI standards and public breed profiles; care text: DogsClub. Last updated: October 2026.