Bichon Frise Health and Costs
Breed Group
Companion Dogs
Country of Origin
France / Belgium
Breed Size
Small
AKC Recognition
Yes, recognized in 1972
FCI Recognition
Yes, recognized in 1959
Rarity
Very Common2 / 10
Purchase cost
Moderate to Expensive6 / 10
Life expectancy
Long Lifespan8 / 10
Health
Generally healthy7 / 10
Health problem risk
Moderate health concerns4 / 10
Maintenance cost
Moderately costly upkeep6 / 10
A Veterinarian's Guide
Bichon Frise Health Problems and Costs
The Bichon Frise is a cheerful, curly-coated small dog that is generally healthy and often lives into the mid-teens. A handful of conditions still deserve attention: skin allergies, bladder stones, eye disease, kneecap problems and dental disease. This guide explains each one in plain language and what care can cost.
Skin allergies
Skin allergies are commonly reported in Bichons and can come from the environment, food or fleas. The dense white coat can hide early changes, so watch for new licking, chewing, scratching or a musty smell, and for rust-colored staining on the paws and face from saliva. Left alone, itchy skin can lead to matting and secondary skin or ear infections. Your vet can work out the cause and choose a treatment that suits your dog.
Bladder stones
Bladder stones are hard mineral crystals that form in the bladder. The Merck Veterinary Manual explains the common stone types, and Bichons are among the breeds in which owners and vets see them. Signs include blood in the urine, strong-smelling urine, frequent small urinations and straining. Depending on the stone, treatment may be a prescription diet or surgery.
Urinary emergency: see a vet the same day
- 1
Straining with little or no urine
A stone may be blocking the tube that carries urine out, which is most serious in males.
- 2
Crying out or licking at the area
This can mean real pain and should not wait.
- 3
Vomiting or unusual tiredness
A blockage can make a dog unwell quickly.
- 4
Blood in the urine
Even without straining, it deserves a prompt visit.
Eye problems
Cataracts cloud the lens of the eye and are likely inherited in this breed, sometimes starting young. PetMD also lists a suspected inherited eye condition called corneal dystrophy, which usually causes no pain unless an ulcer forms. The AKC non-sporting group health testing page recommends an eye exam by a veterinary eye specialist for the breed.
A red, squinting, cloudy or suddenly painful eye needs a vet visit the same day, because some eye problems can threaten sight quickly.
Kneecaps and hips
A luxating patella is a kneecap that slips out of its groove, causing a skip in the step. The same AKC page recommends patella and hip evaluations for Bichons. Keeping your dog lean and fit eases the load on small joints.
Dental disease
Small dogs are very prone to dental disease, as PetMD notes. Crowded teeth collect plaque, which hardens into tartar and can lead to sore gums and tooth loss. Daily or regular brushing at home plus professional cleanings recommended by your vet make the biggest difference.
What care costs
These are rough figures that vary by region and clinic, so ask your own vet for a quote. Reading whether pet insurance is worth it can help you plan for larger bills.
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Yearly wellness care | $200 to $400 |
| Allergy workup and management | $300 to $800 per year |
| Bladder stone diagnosis and treatment | $500 to $3,000 or more |
| Professional dental cleaning | $300 to $800 |
| Eye specialist exam | $150 to $300 per visit |
| Pet insurance | $20 to $100 or more per month |
| Total monthly ownership | $115 to $370 |
Choosing a breeder
A good breeder will share patella, hip and eye exam results for both parents and will talk openly about allergies and bladder stones in the family. Be cautious of anyone who cannot show results or who rushes your decision.
Daily life and grooming
Bichons are playful, people-loving dogs, as described on the personality page, and our training guide covers how to start. Grooming is part of their health care. The curly coat mats easily, and mats trap moisture against the skin, so brush often and book a groomer every four to six weeks, as the grooming page explains. Grooming days are also a chance to check skin and ears.
Long-term care
Bichons commonly live about 14 to 15 years. Healthy weight, regular dental care, ear and skin checks and yearly exams help catch problems early, and senior dogs may benefit from twice-yearly visits.
Final Thoughts From a Veterinarian
Bichons are cheerful, long-lived dogs whose main concerns are skin, bladder, eyes, kneecaps and teeth. Regular grooming, dental care and quick action on urinary signs cover most of what they need. Your own veterinarian can tailor a plan to your dog.
Health & Costs FAQ
How much do Bichon Frise cost?
A Bichon Frise puppy from a reputable breeder typically costs between $1,000 and $3,500, though champion bloodlines can reach $5,000. Adoption through rescues is a more affordable option, generally ranging from $200 to $600. Prospective owners should also budget for initial supplies and professional grooming.
Purchase cost: 6 / 10
How long do Bichon Frise live?
Bichon Frises commonly live about 14 to 15 years.
Life expectancy: 8 / 10
Are Bichon Frise healthy dogs?
Bichon Frises are generally healthy and often live about 14 to 15 years. They can be affected by skin allergies, bladder stones, cataracts, luxating patellas and dental disease. Regular checkups, dental care and a healthy weight help protect their health.
Health: 7 / 10
What health problems do Bichon Frise have?
Bichons can develop skin allergies, bladder stones, cataracts, luxating patellas and dental disease. Straining to urinate is an emergency, because a stone can block urine flow.
Health problem risk: 4 / 10
Are Bichon Frise expensive to maintain?
Bichon Frises are moderately expensive to maintain, primarily due to their significant grooming needs. Their non-shedding coat requires professional grooming every four to six weeks to prevent matting. Additionally, potential owners should budget for high-quality food and routine veterinary care to manage common issues like dental problems and allergies.
Maintenance cost: 6 / 10
How much does it cost to own a Bichon Frise per month?
Expect to spend roughly $115 to $370 per month to own a Bichon Frise. Food, professional grooming, routine veterinary care and pet insurance make up most of the cost.
Monthly ownership cost: 4 / 10
How much does pet insurance cost for a Bichon Frise?
Pet insurance for a Bichon commonly runs from about $20 to $100 or more per month, depending on the provider, your dog's age and where you live.
Pet insurance cost: 3 / 10
Will homeowners insurance cover a Bichon Frise?
Yes, most homeowners insurance policies will cover a Bichon Frise. They are not typically on restricted breed lists because they are considered gentle and non-aggressive. However, you should always disclose your pet to your insurance provider to ensure liability coverage is included in your policy.
Homeowners insurance difficulty: 10 / 10
Are Bichon Frise on insurance restricted breed lists?
No, Bichon Frises are not typically included on insurance restricted-breed lists. These lists generally focus on larger breeds perceived as higher liability risks due to size or history of aggression. As a small, friendly companion dog, the Bichon Frise is usually viewed as a low-risk breed by insurers.
Insurance restriction risk: 1 / 10
Can you get renters insurance with a Bichon Frise?
Yes, you can typically obtain renters insurance with a Bichon Frise. As a small, non-aggressive breed, they are rarely found on restricted lists. Most policies provide liability coverage for your pet, but always disclose your dog to your insurer and verify specific requirements in your lease agreement.
Renters insurance difficulty: 10 / 10
