Bichon Frise health guide
Also known as: Bichon
About this breed
The Bichon Frise is a cheerful, low-shedding white powder-puff that adapts beautifully to apartment life. Skin allergies, teeth, knees and bladder stones are the four things we monitor most in this breed.
Living in Macau's climate
The plush white coat mats fast in Macau humidity, so professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks is essential rather than cosmetic. Damp coats also hide early skin infections, so towel-dry thoroughly and check the skin after every wet walk.
Common health conditions
Atopic skin allergies
Signs: Recurrent itching, face rubbing, red-brown staining of paws from licking.
Prevention: Year-round parasite prevention, regular medicated baths as advised, and early allergy work-up; control beats cure.
Dental disease
Signs: Bad breath, tartar and gum recession from an early age.
Prevention: Daily brushing and professional cleaning as advised for small breeds.
Patellar luxation
Signs: Occasional skipping on a hind leg after excitement.
Prevention: Lean weight, non-slip flooring and yearly knee grading.
Bladder stones
Signs: Straining, frequent urination or blood-tinged urine.
Prevention: Encourage water intake and run a urine test at each annual visit.
Daily care tips
- Keep the grooming schedule sacred: every 4 to 6 weeks, plus daily face washing to reduce tear staining.
- Towel-dry to the skin after rain; a damp undercoat breeds infection in this climate.
- Brush teeth daily starting in puppyhood.
- Use white-coat-safe products only after checking with us for skin sensitivity.
Screening schedule
8 to 16 weeks
Vaccination course with skin, knee and dental assessment.
1 to 6 years
Annual exam with skin review, urine test and dental scoring.
7 years and up
Twice-yearly senior checks with blood work and urinalysis.
Book a breed-savvy check-up
Our vets see Bichon Frise patients every week and know exactly what to screen for. Call +853 6677 6611 or book online.
Book a check-upRelated breeds
This guide is general information for the breed as a whole and does not replace an examination of your individual pet. When in doubt, always call the clinic.
Reviewed by the Royal Veterinary Center veterinary team.