Bichon Dog Characteristics

Bichons are active and friendly little dogs that've been around since at least the 13th century and originated in the Mediterranean. Descended from the poodle, they soon became favorites at European royal courts. The bichon frise and Havanese are especially good dogs for people who are otherwise allergic to pet hair, as they don't shed and are hypoallergenic. There are several types of bichon dog.

  1. Types

    • The bichon frise is the most popular of the bichon type dogs. While popular in the royal courts of Europe, by the 1800s it was more likely to be seen accompanying an organ grinder on the street. The bichon Bolognese dates back to the bichon that was found in southern Italy in the 13th century. The Havanese is believed to have been brought to Cuba from the Canary Islands by soldiers. The Maltese is one of the oldest of European breeds; its ancestor were brought to Malta by the Phoenicians. The forebears of the Coton de Tulear were brought to Madagascar by French troops and developed there. The Lowchen, despite its vaguely oriental name, originated in France in the 1500s and was another favorite of European royal courts. However, its popularity declined so much that by 1960 it was considered the world's rarest dog breed. However, it has made a comeback.

    Common Physical Characteristics

    • Most bichon dogs don't stand any taller than 12 or 13 inches at the shoulder and weigh less than 20 pounds. They have soft, fluffy, cottony or silky coats that need regular or daily care. The coat color, save the Havanese, Coton de Tulear and Lowchen, are predominantly white, though the other breeds can have lemon, buff, blond or apricot markings.

    Personality

    • Bichon dogs, whatever the breed, are typically cheerful, lively, gentle and friendly, though the Bolognese may be a little shy.The Maltese in particular is known for being fearless, reflecting its origins as a rat catcher.

    Health Issues and Exercise

    • A Maltese should give the impression of rapid movement when it walks.

      Bichons typically live about 14 years. The Bolognese rarely has health problems, but the bichon frise is somewhat prone to eye, skin and ear aliments. The bichon frise can be sensitive to flea bites, as well as vulnerable to epilepsy and dislocated kneecaps. The Maltese dislike hot weather and might develop sunburn where the fur doesn't cover the skin. They might have eye, respiratory and teeth problems. As the Havanese gets older, it might be prone to hip dysplasia, eye problems, knee problems, deafness in one or both ears and dry skin. Like the Bolognese, the Lowchen tends to be healthy but again may be subject to knee problems. All the bichon types are well adapted to apartment life but still need plenty of exercise, which must include daily walks.