| Height | 9.5-11.5 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 12-18 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 14β15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Curious / Playful / Peppy [1] |
| AKC group | Non-Sporting Group [1] |
| Origin | The Mediterranean [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 49 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1β5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The Bichon is classified as 'somewhat active,'Β but that's an average. Long stretches of calm are interspersed with brief bursts of high activity, often just running through the house or around the yard. Daily play sessions, in addition to walks, are required. [1]
Grooming
Bichons should be brushed at least two or three times a week, but every day is best. They need a bath and a clipping at least once a month. Owners who show their Bichons learn to do this, but most pet owners take their Bichon to the groomer every four to six weeks. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Bichons are generally healthy dogs, and a responsible breeder will screen breeding stock for health conditions such as allergies, bladder infections, luxating patella, and cataracts and other eye diseases. Bichons may experience early tooth loss or complications from gum infection if dental care and regular tooth brushing are not a priority. To avoid ear infections, regular ear cleaning is recommended. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 β $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 β $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 β $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
| Full professional grooming, per visit | $40β$150 | [6] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Bichon Frise in 1972. [1]
- It ranked No. 49 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 44 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the βBichon.β [1]
- The AKC lists The Mediterranean as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 3 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- β Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- β Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- β First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- β People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 1/5)
- β Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 5/5)
- β οΈ Think twice: Low-maintenance seekers: AKC rates grooming needs 5/5
Common questions
How long do Bichon Frises live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 14-15 years.
How big does a Bichon Frise get?
AKC breed information lists height 9.5-11.5 inches and weight 12-18 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Bichon Frise?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Bichon Frise, a typical vet bill runs $273 β $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.