5 Common Bichon Frise Health Concerns
These snow-white sweethearts are peppy little pooches that weigh between 12 and 18 pounds. Despite their small size, these dogs have a larger than life personality with bold, curious disposition.
These dogs love to learn tricks and are very adaptable for city and country dwellers alike. The Bichon Frise has a loving, happy-go-lucky personality that makes these pups amazing family companions. If you’re looking to bring one of these special dogs into your home, you’ll want to have a clear understanding of the breed’s health history. Below, we’ll share 5 common Bichon Frise health concerns so that you can be a prepared pooch parent.
Hyperadrenocorticism
This disease, also known as Cushing’s disease, occurs when a dog’s body makes too much of a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol helps a dog’s body regulate stress, weight, and can help fight infections. It usually presents itself in middle-aged and older dogs. Some symptoms may include increased appetite or thirst, lethargy, or hair loss.
This condition is unfortunately difficult to diagnose, so your veterinarian will likely need to run a series of tests over several months to determine the root cause of your dog’s associated symptoms. Usually, pups with this condition can lead happy lives with the help of a hormone regulator medication. Your Bichon Frise will also undergo regular blood tests to check up on the status of his condition.
Hip Dysplasia
While hip dysplasia is less common in smaller dogs like the Bichon Frise, it is a fairly common condition in the breed worth understanding. Canine hip dysplasia occurs when a dog’s hip joint does not fit in properly with his hip socket. This causes the two to scrape against one another, which can be extremely painful for your pooch. You might see your dog struggling to put weight on one or both hind legs.
Thankfully, many dogs can still carry out fulfilling lives with this condition. Your veterinarian may recommend certain supplements or medications to help deal with your dog’s associated symptoms. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the condition. You’ll want to make sure you prevent your Bichon Frise from jumping down from high places to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the joints.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is unfortunately very common in all breeds, but especially for the Bichon Frise. This is caused by plaque and tartar buildup overtime, eventually leading to infection. The best preventative method is to brush your Bichon Frise’s teeth on a daily basis. Depending on the severity of your dog’s condition, he may have to have a surgical cleaning or tooth removal to deal with the infection.
Cataracts
Cataracts are sometimes passed down from one generation to the next, which makes them one of the more common conditions in Bichon Frise dogs. The condition occurs when a dog’s lens clouds, progressively obstructing vision overtime. Luckily, cataracts can be removed with surgical intervention. Dogs who aren’t ideal surgery candidates can still live amazing lives even with the presence of the condition.
Ear Infections
Bichon Frise pups are infamous for having skin issues such as ear infections. While these infections are fairly common in all dogs, you’ll want to pay special attention to your pint-sized pooch. In most cases, ear infections can be treated with a medicated cleanser prescribed by your veterinarian.
As a preventative measure, you’ll want to make sure you keep your dog’s ears dry as much as possible. In addition, be sure to plan regular ear cleanings for your pooch, especially after he finishes swimming, bathing, or coming into contact with water.
Just like any other breed, Bichon Frise pups are subject to their own set of health concerns. It’s clear that these curious and loving canines are so worth the extra care. Enjoy welcoming one of these sweet furry friends into your life.
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