5 Most Common Bichon Frise Health Concerns

With their cotton-ball coats and cheerful personalities, the Bichon Frise is one of the most charming small dog breeds. Weighing just 12 to 18 pounds, these snow-white pups are adaptable, playful, and thrive equally well in apartments or larger homes. Their affectionate, happy-go-lucky nature makes them excellent family dogs.

But like all breeds, Bichons have their share of health issues that owners should watch for. Knowing the most common Bichon Frise health problems can help you spot early warning signs, work closely with your veterinarian, and give your pup the best chance at a long, healthy life.

Here are five conditions to keep on your radar.

Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing’s Disease)

One condition to be aware of in Bichon Frises is Cushing’s disease, caused by the body producing too much cortisol (the stress hormone). Cortisol helps regulate weight, immune response, and metabolism, but too much can cause long-term health issues.

Typical signs include:

• Excessive thirst and urination
• Increased appetite
• Hair thinning or hair loss
• Lethargy or weakness

Diagnosis can be tricky. Your vet may need several tests over months to confirm the condition. While there’s no outright cure, most Bichons with Cushing’s can live full, happy lives with medication that regulates hormone levels and routine blood tests to monitor their progress.

If you notice your Bichon suddenly drinking water all the time or gaining weight despite normal feeding, it’s worth asking your vet about Cushing’s.

Hip Dysplasia

Although hip dysplasia is usually linked to large-breed dogs, Bichon Frises can still be affected. This inherited condition occurs when the hip joint and socket don’t fit together properly, causing painful friction over time.

Owners may notice limping, stiffness, or reluctance to climb stairs. Preventing injury is key—avoid letting your Bichon jump down from couches or high beds, since the impact puts unnecessary pressure on their joints.

Management options include joint supplements, anti-inflammatory medications, weight control, and physical therapy. In advanced cases, surgical correction may be needed. With proper care, many Bichons with hip dysplasia remain active well into their senior years.

Gum Disease

If there’s one health issue Bichon Frise owners frequently deal with, it’s gum disease. Small breeds are especially prone to dental problems because of crowded teeth. Plaque and tartar build up quickly, leading to infection, bad breath, and even tooth loss.

The best prevention is daily toothbrushing—yes, even for small dogs! Pair it with regular dental cleanings at the vet. If infection sets in, your dog may require professional scaling or even tooth removal.

Dental health isn’t just about fresh breath. Untreated gum disease can impact your dog’s heart, liver, and kidneys, making prevention especially important.

Cataracts

Eye problems are another common issue in this breed. Cataracts in Bichon Frises often have a genetic component and can appear as early as middle age. Owners usually notice a cloudy or bluish film over the eye and, over time, changes in vision.

Cataract surgery can restore eyesight in many dogs, but even if surgery isn’t an option, most Bichons adapt well. Dogs rely heavily on smell and hearing, so vision loss, while challenging, doesn’t mean they’ll stop enjoying life.

Ear Infections

Thanks to their fluffy coats and narrow ear canals, Bichon Frises are prone to ear infections. Moisture gets trapped easily, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast.

Common signs include scratching at the ears, head shaking, foul odor, or discharge. Treatment usually involves medicated cleansers or drops prescribed by your vet.

Prevention is simple but important:

• Keep ears dry after baths or swimming
• Clean ears regularly with a dog-safe ear cleanser

Because Bichons are also prone to skin allergies, ear infections may flare up alongside itchy skin. Keeping both conditions under control reduces flare frequency.

Keeping Your Bichon Frise Healthy

While it may feel overwhelming to hear about these conditions, remember: awareness is your best tool. By recognizing early warning signs, keeping up with preventive care, and working with a trusted veterinarian, you can help your Bichon Frise live a joyful, energetic life well into their senior years.
At Gallant, we’re also exploring what the future of veterinary care may look like. Through FDA-authorized clinical trials, we’re studying stem cell therapies that may one day provide new options for pets with atopic dermatitis and osteoarthritis. These therapies are part of a promising area of research called regenerative medicine, which investigates ways to support the body’s natural repair processes.