You didn’t land on the Bichon frise by accident. This is a breed people seek out, and for good reason. Cheerful and gentle, low-shedding powder-puff coat, and adaptable to almost any living situation, they’re a natural fit for apartment dwellers, retirees, allergy-sensitive households, and anyone who wants a genuinely happy small companion who want a consistently cheerful, affectionate dog who makes almost any home feel lighter. Let’s dig in.
What are the characteristics of a Bichon frise?
Think you know what you’re getting into with a Bichon frise? These scores will either confirm your suspicions or give you something to think about. Either way, good to know now.
Training
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Trainability | 4 out of 5 | Bright and eager to please. Bichons learn quickly in short, positive sessions and rarely push back |
| Obedience | 4 out of 5 | Responsive and cooperative when training is consistent. They follow direction well and want to get it right |
| Focus | 3 out of 5 | Generally attentive, though their sociable nature can pull focus when people are around |
| Stubbornness | 2 out of 5 | Not stubbornly independent. They want to cooperate and respond well to a positive approach |
Friendliness
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Good with family | 5 out of 5 | Warm, devoted, and happiest when they're close to their family |
| Good with children | 5 out of 5 | Gentle, patient, and tolerant. One of the better small breeds with young children |
| Good with strangers | 4 out of 5 | Friendly and warm with new people. Bichons don't tend toward suspicion or wariness |
| Good with other dogs | 4 out of 5 | Gets along well with other dogs and is a natural fit in multi-pet households |
Adaptability
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment living | 5 out of 5 | One of the best small breeds for apartment living. Quiet, compact, and adaptable |
| Cold weather | 3 out of 5 | Handles cool weather reasonably well, but their small size means they lose heat quickly in genuine cold |
| Hot weather | 3 out of 5 | Tolerates moderate warmth but shouldn't be over-exercised in high heat |
| Routine flexibility | 4 out of 5 | Adapts well to different environments and routines as long as they have companionship |
| First time owner | 5 out of 5 | One of the most recommended breeds for first-time owners. Gentle, trainable, and forgiving |
Physical needs
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | 3 out of 5 | Moderate energy. Lively and playful indoors, with modest outdoor exercise needs |
| Endurance | 2 out of 5 | Not built for endurance. Short sessions of activity suit them well |
| Exercise needs | 2 out of 5 | Needs 20 to 30 minutes of exercise daily. Play sessions and short walks usually cover it |
| Mental stimulation | 4 out of 5 | Bright and curious. They pick up tricks quickly and enjoy having a mental challenge |
| Grooming needs | 4 out of 5 | Their curly white coat doesn't shed much but mats easily and requires consistent grooming |
Personality
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Playfulness | 4 out of 5 | Playful and lighthearted. Bichons enjoy games and maintain their puppy energy into adulthood |
| Affection | 5 out of 5 | Affectionate and physically close. They thrive on contact and don't do well left alone for long periods |
| Loyalty | 4 out of 5 | Devoted to their household. They form strong attachments and follow their people around consistently |
| Independence | 2 out of 5 | Low independence. They prefer being with someone and can develop separation anxiety without proper conditioning |
| Alertness | 3 out of 5 | Alert and curious, but not reactive or high-strung |
Behavior
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Barking tendency | 3 out of 5 | Can be vocal, particularly when anxious or under-stimulated. Training addresses this well |
| Digging tendency | 1 out of 5 | Not a digger. That tendency is largely absent |
| Chewing tendency | 2 out of 5 | Light chewing tendency, mostly as puppies |
| Prey drive | 1 out of 5 | Very low prey drive. They're companion dogs through and through |
| Guarding instincts | 1 out of 5 | Not a guard dog. Alert enough to notice visitors; not interested in deterring them |
What are common health issues of a Bichon frise?
Like all breeds, Bichon frises are prone to certain health conditions. Here’s what to keep on your radar.
Allergies
Bichon Frises are prone to skin and environmental allergies. Itching, redness, and recurring skin irritation are common signs. Food triggers are also worth ruling out with your vet.
Read more about AllergiesBladder Cancer
Bichon Frises are among the breeds with a higher risk of bladder tumors. Straining to urinate, blood in the urine, and frequent accidents are signs that need prompt vet attention.
Read more about Bladder CancerLuxating Patella
The kneecap slips out of place, causing your dog to skip or hold a leg up mid-stride. It is common in Bichon Frises and ranges from mild to severe. Some cases need surgery.
Read more about Luxating PatellaCataracts
A clouding of the eye lens that can affect vision. Bichon Frises are prone to hereditary cataracts that can appear early. A vet can monitor progression and advise on options.
Read more about CataractsCushing's Disease
The body produces too much cortisol over time, affecting many systems. Bichon Frises are prone to it. Signs include increased thirst, a pot-bellied appearance, and hair loss.
Read more about Cushing's DiseaseWhat are the recommended health tests for Bichon frises?
Your Bichon frise can’t tell you when something’s off. That’s what these tests are for. Here’s what vets typically recommend for them.
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OFA patella evaluation -
OFA hip evaluation
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CAER ophthalmologist eye exam
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Cardiac evaluation by a board-certified cardiologist
Do Bichon frises need pet insurance?
We’ll let the numbers do the talking, but spoiler: a lot of Bichon frise owners are really glad they had coverage.
Those numbers aren’t hypotheticals. They’re real claims from real Bichon frise owners in 2025.
The right pet insurance means you’re making decisions based on what your dog needs, not what you can afford.
With Lemonade, you can build a plan around your Bichon specifically. Start with accident and illness coverage as your base, then add on what makes sense for your dog, things like physical therapy, dental illness, or behavioral treatment, and skip what doesn’t. Coverage applies to conditions that aren’t pre-existing (AKA, a condition that occurs after your policy is active and your waiting periods have passed), and you’ll know exactly what’s included before you commit. No fine print ambushes, no surprises at claim time.
And when you do need to file? You can do it in the app in minutes. No paperwork, no hold music, no waiting around.
Bichon frises are worth protecting with proper coverage. Here’s how to do it right.
How much does pet insurance cost?
The cost of your premium is personal. It depends on your Bichons age, your location, and what you add to your plan. That said, here’s a realistic look at what other Bichon frise owners pay with Lemonade:
| Age | Average monthly premium |
|---|---|
| 1 year old | $50-$55 |
| 2 years old | $50-$55 |
| 3 years old | $50-$55 |
| 4 years old | $50-$55 |
| 5 years old | $55-$60 |
| 6 years old | $65-$70 |
| 7 years old | $70-$75 |
Not sure if Lemonade is the right fit for your Bichon?
See how we stack up. Compare pet insurance options side by side and find the coverage that fits your Bichon frise and your budget.
History of the Bichon frise
The Bichon Frise has roots in the Mediterranean going back to at least the 14th century, when Bichon-type dogs were documented on the Canary Islands. Sailors traded them throughout Europe, and the breed became particularly fashionable in France and Spain during the Renaissance period, finding favor with aristocracy and royalty including Francis I and Henry III of France. After the French Revolution, Bichons fell out of aristocratic favor and became street performers and companion dogs for ordinary people. Belgian and French breeders worked to revive and standardize the breed in the early 20th century, and the official name Bichon Frise, meaning curly lap dog, was adopted in 1933. The AKC recognized the breed in 1972, and it has remained a consistently popular companion dog worldwide.
Caring for a Bichon frise
Training
Training a Bichon frise is straightforward, but it’s worth the effort. They are bright, eager to please, and highly motivated by praise and treats, which means training is generally smooth and enjoyable when sessions are kept positive and fun. Positive reinforcement with treats and praise in short, upbeat sessions tends to work best, and getting started early makes a real difference.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or leveling up, these are worth the read.
Grooming
Bichon frises have a soft, curly double coat that requires high grooming. Daily brushing is required to prevent the soft coat from matting, and the occasional trim keeps them looking their best. Professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks is essential to maintain the breed's signature fluffy appearance.
From nail trims to professional care, here’s everything you need to keep your Bichon looking (and feeling) their best.
Exercise and mental stimulation
Bichon frises have moderate energy levels and need 30 minutes of exercise each day to stay happy and healthy. Short walks, indoor play sessions, and gentle interactive games are all great ways to burn through that energy. But physical exercise is only half the picture. Bichon frises are moderately intelligent dogs, and mental stimulation is just as important as the miles you put in. Without it, they become restless, anxious, and prone to nuisance barking and separation anxiety. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and scent work are all solid ways to keep their brain engaged between walks.
Here’s how to build an exercise routine your Bichon frise will actually love.
Nutrition
Bichon frises are small dogs with moderate energy, so they need a diet to match. Most adults do well on around 400 to 550 calories a day, spread across two meals. Depending on what you’re feeding them, expect to spend around $25 to $40 a month on food. Not the cheapest line item, but not the most expensive either.
What goes in the bowl is your call, and your vet’s. Kibble, raw, fresh, or a combination: there’s no single right answer. Focus on quality ingredients, the right portions for your dog’s age and activity level, and you’re most of the way there.
Get the full picture on feeding a Bichon frise here.
Bichon frise costs and adoption
What does it cost to bring home a Bichon frise?
Before your Bichon frise even sets a paw in your home, there are some one-time costs worth planning for. Here’s what to expect upfront.
| Category | Cost Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Adoption (Reputable breeder) | $500-$2,000 | Health testing, vaccinations, early socialization, pedigree |
| Adoption (Rescue/shelter) | $50-$300 | Basic veterinary care, spay/neuter, temperament evaluation |
| Initial veterinary care | $300-$500 | Exam, vaccinations, spay/neuter if needed, microchip |
| Essential supplies | $100-$300 | Crate, bed, leash, collar, food bowls, toys |
| Training classes | $100-$200 | Basic obedience, puppy socialization |
Unexpected costs have a way of showing up in year one more than any other. A starter emergency fund alongside a solid pet insurance plan is the best way to make sure they don’t catch you off guard.
What does it cost to own a Bichon frise each year?
Once you’re past year one, ownership costs settle into a more predictable rhythm. Here’s what most Bichon frise owners spend annually, though keep in mind these numbers can vary quite a bit depending on where you live, your dog’s individual health needs, and the choices you make along the way.
| Category | Annual cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Food and treats | $300-$600 | Based on the recommended portion for your Bichon frise |
| Routine Veterinary Care | $500-$1,000 | Wellness exams, vaccinations, dental care |
| Professional Grooming | $400-$800 | Every Every 4 to 6 weeks, Curly coat grows continuously and mats close to the skin without regular brushing; many owners keep a shorter clip. |
| Toys and Supplies | $100-$300 | Replacement items, mental stimulation toys |
What are popular Bichon frise names?
We’ve crunched the numbers, and found the top 10 most popular names for Bichon frise we see at Lemonade.
More names where those came from. If none of these are clicking, we’ve done the digging for you. Go find the one that sticks.
Bichon frise puppies
Puppy veterinary needs
The first year matters a lot. What happens between 8 weeks and 12 months shapes who this dog becomes. Here’s what to focus on.
The first few months are the most important window for your puppy’s health. Core vaccines start at 6–8 weeks and continue through 16 weeks. After that, its annual boosters and routine screening as they grow into adults.
It’s a lot to keep track of. That’s why we made it easy.
Puppy socialization
Bichon frise puppies are cheerful, gentle, and consistently pleasant to be around. That an easy-going happiness that is difficult to not find contagious is part of what makes them one of the most reliably pleasant small breeds for almost any living situation, and it’s also why early socialization matters so much.
Between 8 and 16 weeks, get them in front of as much variety as possible. Different people, animals, sounds, surfaces, and locations. Keep every experience positive. Puppy classes are great for this: supervised, controlled, and full of exactly the kind of novelty a Bichon frise brain needs to learn that the world is mostly fine.
Where are Bichon frise’s most popular in the United States?
Based on Lemonade’s own policyholder data, Bichon frises are most popular in these five states. We’ve also thrown in a few things local pet owners should keep an eye on, so your pup can get out there and explore safely.
1. California
Foxtail grass is one of the sneakiest hazards for California dogs. The barbed seeds can embed in paws, ears, and noses from late spring through early fall, so check your dog after any outdoor time. Wildfire smoke is also a real seasonal concern; when air quality alerts are in effect, it's best to keep walks short and stay indoors as much as possible.
2. New York
In New York City, street hazards are the main thing to watch. Dropped food, discarded gum containing xylitol, and litter are common ingestion risks on sidewalks and in parks. Upstate and in Long Island, the story shifts to ticks: New York is a Lyme disease hotspot, and black-legged ticks are active from early spring through late fall.
3. Texas
Texas heat is intense and sets in early. Hot pavement can burn paws from late spring through early fall, and heatstroke risk is high during midday walks in cities like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. Rattlesnakes, scorpions, and fire ants are also common hazards, particularly in suburban and rural areas.
4. New Jersey
New Jersey consistently ranks among the top states for Lyme disease cases, so tick prevention is critical for any dog spending time outside, even in suburban backyards. Proximity to the Jersey Shore also means dogs can encounter jellyfish washed ashore, and saltwater ingestion during beach trips can cause stomach issues.
5. Washington
Western Washington's wet, mild climate creates near-perfect conditions for fleas year-round, and slugs in the Pacific Northwest can carry lungworm, a parasite dogs can pick up by sniffing or eating them. Eastern Washington and the Cascades bring different risks, including rattlesnakes and wildlife encounters on trails, so knowing which side of the mountains you're on matters.
Breed comparison
Already leaning toward a Bichon frise? These breeds often get compared, here’s a quick snapshot of how they stack up.
Maltese
Both are small, white, low-shedding companions. Maltese are more delicate and lap-dog-oriented. Bichons are sturdier, more energetic, and slightly easier to train overall.
Read more
Havanese
Both are small, low-shedding, and affectionate. Havanese are slightly more outgoing and adaptable. Bichons are more energetic and better suited to owners who want an active companion.
Read more
Coton de Tulear
Both are small, white, fluffy companion dogs. Cotons are slightly more laid-back and sturdy. Bichons are more energetic, more widely known, and easier to find from reputable breeders.
Read more
Is a Bichon frise right for you?
Bichon frises reward the right owner with a consistently cheerful nature that makes everyday life more pleasant and a low-shedding, manageable coat that works for many households. They just need regular professional grooming, daily dental care, and consistent companionship in return. If you’re ready for that, you’re ready for a Bichon frise. Make sure they’re protected from day one.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of the policies issued, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage may not be available in all states. Please note that statements about coverages, policy management, claims processes, Giveback, and customer support apply to policies underwritten by Lemonade Insurance Company or Metromile Insurance Company, a Lemonade company, sold by Lemonade Insurance Agency, LLC. The statements do not apply to policies underwritten by other carriers.
Insurance claim data is based on Lemonade pet insurance claims that were settled and paid in 2025.
Average insurance premium data is based on Lemonade’s internal data and reflects the average premium over the last 12 complete months, accurate as of June 2026.
Top pet names are sourced from Lemonade’s database of pet names associated with submitted quotes and purchased policies.
Top states for each breed are based on the number of active Lemonade pet insurance policies for that breed in each state as of June 2026.