Italian-Bichon

Dog Breed Profile

Italian-Bichon History

The Italian Bichon Frise is a medium-sized, white and fluffy, hypoallergenic, toy lapdog, also known as the “Bichon Bolognese”. The origin of the Italian Bichon is unknown. Some suggest that the Bichon descends from the Barbet, a closely related water retriever. Others believe that the Bichon descends from the Water Spaniel, a “water spaniel” that is no longer in existence. Regardless of its origins, by 1543 the bichon was well established in Italy, where it was known as the “Barbagno”. The “Barbagno” was commonly used as a watchdog and hunter, and was also kept in the homes of wealthy Venetian families as a pet and companion.

Time of Origin

2000s

Country of Origin

Unknown

Ancestry

Italian Greyhound, Bichon Frise

Italian-Bichon Physical Characteristics

The Italian Bichon Frise is a small, toy-sized breed of dog that typically stands between 9 and 11 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 8 and 12 pounds. They have a soft, fluffy white, blue, or cream colored coat. They have large, erect ears, a long tail that is curled over and hangs over their back, and a white blaze on the face. The Italian Bichon Frises are playful, energetic, and lovable.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Black

Coat Colors

Cream, Fawn, Sable, White

Height Range

Male Height Range: 12 – 15 inches

Female Height Range: 12 – 15 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 12 – 18 lbs

Female Weight Range: 10 – 15 lbs

Italian-Bichon Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

14-15 yrs

Italian-Bichon Health Concerns

Urolithiasis, Patent Ductus Arteriosus, Cataracts, Shaker Dog Syndrome

Italian-Bichon Temperament and Behaviour

The Italian Bichon is a playful, lively, and very intelligent breed of dog. They are friendly and gentle, and get along well with children and other small animals. The Italian Bichon is also a great candidate for obedience and agility training.

Italian-Bichon Activity Requirements

The Italian-Bichon is a small, fluffy dog that is well-known for their adorable looks and loveable personality. While they are not known for being particularly high-energy, they do need a moderate amount of daily exercise and mental stimulation. An Italian-Bichon will enjoy a daily walk or trip to the dog park. They will also be happy with some indoor games, such as chasing a ball or squeaking a toy. While they may not need excessive amounts of physical exercise, they do need to have some interaction with their owners. If you are looking for a smaller, lower energy breed of dog, the Italian Bichon may be a good fit. They do enjoy some outdoor time, but they don’t need an overly active lifestyle.