What’s the best dog food for Bichon Frise?
Bichon Frise are a small but sturdy breed of dog, known for their glorious white coat – which is velvety to touch – and rounded head hair that sets off large dark eyes and black nose and lips.
They are believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region and are descended from the Water Spaniel and the Barbet.
Popular among European nobility during the Renaissance, Bichon Frises were often used as companion animals. They were also favored by sailors and traders, who would take them on their voyages. The breed’s name, “Bichon,” likely comes from the French word for “small dog.”
According to figures from the American Kennel Club, Bichon Frise consistently ranks in the top 40 most popular dogs in the US.
Unfortunately, this breed is prone to allergies so, when choosing a dog food look for recipes with limited, wholesome ingredients and novel protein such as fish, venison, duck or rabbit.
Bichons, like many small breeds, are prone to urolithiasis (stones in the urinary tract), so keeping your dog well-hydrated is important to help prevent and control it – make sure your dog has access to bowls of fresh water.
Remember, if you have any specific concerns or questions about your Bichon Frise diet, seek advice from your veterinarian.
In the meantime, read our recommendations for the best dog food for Bichon Frise below.
You’ll also learn the answer to each of the most frequently asked questions we get about Bichon Frise
Best Dog Food for Bichon Frise
September 2023
Here are The Dog Food Advisor’s best dog food brands for Bichon Frise for September 2023.
JustFoodForDogs
JustFoodForDogs Venison & Squash Recipe is one of 9 fresh recipes included in our review of the JustFoodForDogs Fresh product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Venison, butternut squash, sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts, cranberries
- Type: Grain-Free
- Profile: Adult Maintenance
- Best for: Dogs
JustFoodForDogs Venison & Squash Recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from venison. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33.3% protein, 18.8% fat and 39.9% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
Made with 100% human-grade ingredients — JustFoodForDogs fresh frozen meals are free from fillers, preservatives, growth hormones, BHA, BHT or artificial coloring.
Sample buyer review… “Our dogs love this food and our vet approves. We would not think of giving them any other food.”
Open Farm
Open Farm Senior Grain-Free Turkey & Chicken Recipe is one of 21 dry recipes included in our review of the Open Farm dry product line.
- First 5 ingredients: 100% Animal welfare certified turkey, 100% animal welfare certified chicken, sweet potato, ocean whitefish meal, field peas
- Type: Grain-Free
- Profile: Adult Maintenance
- Best for: Dogs
Open Farm Senior Grain-Free Turkey & Chicken Recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 34.8% protein, 15.2% fat and 42% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.
This nutrient-dense kibble helps support healthy joints and mobility, thanks to a blend of humanely-raised turkey and chicken, New Zealand green lipped mussel and functional ingredients like non-GMO sourced pumpkin and coconut oil.
Sample buyer review… “My dog Eddie loves the senior grain free dog food so much I’m thinking of switching all my dogs to Open Farm. I really appreciate the peace of mind that comes with having traceable, organic, human-grade food. Thanks again!”
Merrick
Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain-Fre Salmon & Sweet Potato is one of 8 dry recipes included in our review of the Merrick Lil’ Plates dry product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned salmon, salmon meal, whitefish meal, sweet potatoes, potatoes
- Type: Grain-Free
- Profile: Adult Maintenance
- Best for: Dogs
Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain-Free Salmon & Sweet Potato derives the bulk of its protein from fish. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33.7% protein, 15.7% fat and 42.6% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
Made with deboned salmon, this high quality protein helps build and maintain healthy muscle tissue and energy levels. This recipe also offers a good source of omega 3 fatty acids to help support your dog’s healthy skin and coat, plus probiotics and prebiotic fiber for healthy digestion. It also contains high levels of glucosamine and chondroitin to support healthy joints
Sample buyer review… “When I first got it, I wasn’t sure if my dog would like it since he could be picky sometimes. He seemed to enjoy this food and I like that it meets his needs and that it will be benefiting him as he’s getting older. If you have a small dog and are looking for a particular type of food, this is a good option.”
Castor & Pollux
Castor & Pollux Organix Grain-Free Small Breed Chicken is one of 2 dry recipes included in our review of the Castor & Pollux Organix product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Organic Chicken, Organic Chicken Meal, Organic Sweet Potatoes, Organic Potatoes, Organic Peas
- Type: Grain-Free
- Profile: Adult Maintenance
- Best for: Dogs
Castor & Pollux Organix Grain-Free Small Breed Chicken recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29.2% protein, 16.9% fat and 45.9% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
It contains a blend of superfoods-organic flaxseed, organic blueberries, and organic sunflower oil and with probiotics and prebiotic fiber to help support healthy digestion
Sample buyer review… “I was thrilled to be able to try this organic pet food. My dog has weight issues so we decided to switch. It’s grain free and his health has improved in just a few weeks.”
We Feed Raw
We Feed Raw Lamb Patty Recipe is one of 6 raw recipes included in our review of the We Feed Raw product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Lamb, beef heart, beef liver, beef kidney, beef necks (with bone)
- Type: Grain-Free
- Profile: All Life Stages
- Best for: Puppies & Dogs
We Feed Raw Lamb Patty derives the bulk of its meat protein from lamb. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 45.6% protein, 31.1% fat and 15.3% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 68%.
This recipe contains no preservatives, fillers, artificial colors, or flavors. The ingredients are sourced from USDA, human-grade meats, with added vitamins and minerals.
Sample buyer review… “I have been feeding my dogs We Feed Raw for 3 years now and they love their food, their coats are always shining. They are active, happy, healthy dogs.”
Nom Nom
Nom Nom Pork PotLuck is one of 4 fresh recipes included in our review of the Nom Nom Fresh product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Ground pork, russet potatoes, green beans, squash, kale
- Type: Grain-Free
- Profile: All Life Stages
- Best for: Puppies & Dogs
Nom Nom Pork PotLuck derives the bulk of its meat protein from pork. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 20% fat and 44% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 71%.
Sample buyer review… “Most of all I love that I’m giving my pets top-notch food that I hope will contribute to their longevity and overall wellbeing”
American Journey
American Journey Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato is one of 5 dry recipes included in our review of the American Journey Limited Ingredient product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned salmon, salmon meal, peas, chickpeas, sweet potatoes
- Type: Grain-Free
- Profile: All Life Stages
- Best for: Puppies & Dogs
American Journey Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato derives the bulk of its protein from fish. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27.8% protein, 13.3% fat and 50.9% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 48%.
This recipe is made with salmon as a single animal protein source to support the needs of dogs with food sensitivities.
Sample buyer review… “Venturing into limited ingredient options for our dog and came across this as the most cost effective option. Our dog has loved it!”
Zignature
Zignature Kangaroo Formula is one of 13 wet recipes included in our review of the Zignature wet product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Kangaroo, vegetable broth, peas, sunflower oil, kangaroo meal,
- Type: Grain-Free
- Profile: All Life Stages
- Best for: Puppies & Dogs
Zignature Kangaroo Formula derives the bulk of its meat protein from kangaroo. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 40.9% protein, 18.2% fat and 32.9% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.
This wet food formula contains at least 78% moisture, is made with nutrient rich kangaroo as the first ingredient, and includes wholesome ingredients such as peas and chickpeas to round out a well-balanced diet.
Sample buyer review… “As a pet care professional for over 12 years I always strive to give my dogs the best. Zignature has been a staple for our three dogs for three years and counting! We will continue to recommend your food to our clients at work and to our friends.”
More Top Picks
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the most frequently asked questions we get about feeding Bichon Frise:
How big is Bichon Frise?
The Bichon Frise is a small dog that weighs approximately 6–11 kilograms (10–20 pounds) and stands 23–30 centimeters (9–12 inches).
What kind of fur does a Bichon Frise have?
Bichon Frise have a hypoallergenic, powder-puff white coat, which consists of a silky but curly outer coat and soft undercoat, with minimal shedding. It requires daily gentle brushing and monthly bathing.
What temperament do Bichon Frise have?
Bichon Frise are known for their friendly, affectionate, and playful nature. They tend to be social dogs that enjoy being around people and other pets. They are often described as “people dogs” and thrive on human companionship.
Bichons are intelligent and can be trained, though they may sometimes exhibit a stubborn streak. They have a lively and happy demeanor, often making them good candidates for families and various living situations.
How much exercise do Bichon Frise need?
The Bichon is classified as ‘somewhat active’ but that is an average. They can have long periods of calm followed by bursts of high activity. They require daily play sessions with their owner as well as walks (up to 30 minutes each day).
Bichon Frise are well-suited to various living situations, including apartments, as long as they receive regular exercise and mental stimulation. Due to their small size and friendly nature, they can be good companions for families, singles, and seniors alike
What health conditions do Bichon Frise have?
Like many small breeds, Bichon Frise are susceptible to stones in the urinary tract. Diabetes, hip dysplasia and allergies are also among possible conditions that may affect them.
Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet are important for maintaining their health and well-being.
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