What Are the Best Dog Foods for Bichon Frise

Here is our review of the best dog foods for Bichon Frise

Their playful and friendly nature makes Bichon Frisé the best family dog. Their small size coupled with snow-white coats and black eyes makes them adorable. They have a lifespan of 12-15 years and weigh approximately 12-18 pounds.

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For optimal health, your Bichon Frisé needs a balanced diet with all essential nutrients. These tiny dogs need an appropriate balance of fats, proteins, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins.

Proteins are the basic component of all dog foods. Proteins play a critical role in your dog’s life. They contribute to a healthy coat, the production of enzymes and hormones, and muscle growth and repair.

Select proteins from high-quality sources including turkey and deboned chicken. Plant-based proteins are okay. However, they do not provide sufficient proteins. Complex carbs are excellent sources of energy and fiber to boost stamina, the digestive system, and maintain the nervous system.

Complex carbs digest slowly to keep dogs full for longer. Sweet potatoes and quinoa are great sources of carbs.

Leafy greens, apples, and oats are also the best. Avoid high-glycemic carbs including corn, wheat, and potatoes. Healthy fats are important for the proper development of cells, tissues, muscles, and nerves. In addition, fats give your dog a smooth coat and soft skin.

They also provide energy and improve palatability. Healthy fat sources include salmon oil and flaxseed.

Minerals and vitamins support bone, nerve, cartilage, electrolyte balance, and flow of oxygen throughout the body. They also boost immunity. Important minerals include zinc, iron, calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. Vitamins A, B, C, E, and K are crucial in your dog’s diet.

Bichon Frises have sensitive digestion. A limited-ingredient diet is key. Fiber, probiotics, and prebiotics are also important. In addition, Bichon Frises are prone to allergies and need food without wheat, corn, soy, or artificial additives.

The right choice for your dogs minimizes the risks of digestive and health problems for a happy life. The selection process is time-consuming. However, our in-depth selection saves you precious time.

Best Foods for Bichon Frise:- 5 Top Brands

Many brands claim to offer the right formulas for your Bichon Frisé. However, those claims can be marketing techniques only. Here are our proven leading brands for the best food for Bichon Frisé:

1. Blue Buffalo
2. Nutro
3. Holistic Select
4. Royal Canin
5. Solid Gold

Each brand has a unique price. The average price is $3.66 per lb and prices range from $2.08 to $5.02 per lb. Your dog’s life stage also dictates the food to serve. High-energy foods are great for puppies while foods with chondroitin and glucosamine suit senior Bichon Frisé. Below is our top list of the best food for Bichon Frisé:

• Best Overall: Blue Buffalo Wilderness Small Breed Dry Dog Food – $37.98 per 11-lb bag ($3.45 per lb).
• Best Budget-Friendly:  Nutro Wholesome Essentials Small Breed Dry Food – $26.98 per 13-lb bag ($2.08 per lb).
• Best for Weight Management: Holistic Small Breed Healthy Weight Grain-Free Whitefish & Wild Salmon Dry Food- $45.99 per 10-lb bag ($4.60 per lb).
• Best Breed-Specific: Royal Canin Bichon Frisé Adult Dry Food – $50.21 per 10-lb bag ($5.02 per lb).
• Best Grain-Free: Solid Gold Mighty Mini Toy & Small Breed Dry Food – $33.29 per 11-lb bag ($3.03 per lb).

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Small Breed Dry Food 

Awaken the wolf in your tiny Bichon Frisé with Blue Buffalo Wilderness from the Blue Buffalo Company, Ltd. The initial date of production is January 30th, 2012. It features carefully selected ingredients that meet the energy and nutritional needs of small dogs including Bichon Frisé. It also comes in a smaller kibble for small muzzles.

The balanced blend of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants works together to support immune health and ensure healthy oxidative balance. This meal uses natural ingredients free from corn, wheat, soy, or chicken by-products making it safe for sensitive Bichon Frisé. 

Bichon Frises are susceptible to orthopedic problems and this recipe has calcium, phosphorus, and glucosamine. The high-calorie content ensures your Bichon Frisé is actively engaged throughout the day. L-carnitine, dried kelp, and taurine promote the cardiovascular system while omega 6 and 3 fatty acids minimize the risk of shedding and skin irritation.

Carrots are great sources of vitamin A for skin and vision health while yucca schidigera supports digestion and reduces stool odor. High levels of chelated minerals ensure maximum nutrient absorption for overall wellness.

• First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Pea Protein, Peas, Tapioca Starch.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 36% min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 5% Max.
• Calories: 425  kcal/cup.
• Suitable for which dogs: Extra small, toy, and small breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding portions vary depending on your Bichon Frisé poundage.
• Key Benefit: High protein content for muscle power and sufficient energy. 
• Price: $37.98 per 11-lb bag ($3.45 per lb).

Nutro Wholesome Essentials Small Breed Dry Food

Designed specifically for small dogs, this recipe from The Nutro Company is the perfect choice for your Bichon Frisé. Chicken meals and chicken are the key ingredients for top-notch proteins to give your Bichon Frisé a muscular look.

Your sensitive Bichon Frisé can safely enjoy this formula as it contains no corn, chicken by-products, wheat, or soy. Optimal levels of glucosamine and chondroitin promote joint health while high fiber value is great for digestive wellness and maintenance of a healthy weight. 

Bichon Frises are also predisposed to dental issues. This meal has a crunchy texture to lower the risk of plaque and tartar build-up. Essential antioxidants are best for improved immunity and the prevention of cellular damage. The high levels of omegas support coat and skin appearance for a youthful look.

The kibble pieces are tiny to minimize the risk of choking and make chewing and digestion easier. The rich taste attracts even your finicky Bichon Frisé. The vegetable and fruit content is lower compared to other brands. However, it meets the nutritional requirements of Bichon Frises.

• First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Barley, Split Peas, Brewers Rice.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 24% min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 3.5% Max.
• Calories: 352  kcal/cup.
• Suitable for which dogs: Extra small, toy, and small breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding portions vary depending on your Bichon Frisé body weight.
• Key Benefit: Powerful antioxidants including vitamin E and selenium for protection against free radicals.
• Price: $26.98 per 13-lb bag ($2.08 per lb).

Holistic Small Breed Healthy Weight Grain-Free Whitefish & Wild Salmon Dry Food 

Give your dog a lean body with the Holistic Healthy Weight Formula from Hal. The food was introduced to the market on April 22nd, 2014. Consuming that diet supports maximum absorption of nutrients as it has no meat meals or artificial additives. Rendered meat decreases digestibility causing tummy upsets which include vomiting and diarrhea. 

The superior digestibility makes stool pick-up time smooth as lots of nutrients are absorbed resulting in less volume and odor. The formula is low in calories and has L-carnitine to support a healthy weight and minimize obesity. 

The meal comes in small nutrient-rich kibble for breeds with short digestive tracts, small muzzles, and fast metabolism. The crunchy texture promotes teeth and bone health. In addition, the tempting aroma will be irresistible for picky eaters.

Omega-6 and 3 fatty acids are responsible for coat and skin health while vitamin E supports immunity and prevents inflammation. Bichon Frises weighing 3-4 pounds need ¼ to ⅓ cup for weight reduction and ⅓ to ½ cups for weight maintenance.

• First 5 Ingredients: Salmon, Dried Egg Product, Whitefish, Dried Lentils, Chickpeas.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 27% min, Crude Fat 12% min, Crude Fiber 5% Max.
• Calories: 383  kcal/cup.
• Suitable for which dogs: Extra small, toy, and small breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding portions vary depending on whether the food is for weight reduction or weight maintenance.
• Key Benefit: Salmon is the first ingredient for amino acids to build muscle power.
• Price: $45.99 per 10-lb bag ($4.60 per lb).

Royal Canin Bichon Frisé Adult Dry Food 

Formulated for purebred Bichon Frisé, this formula from Royal Canin provides complete nutrition for your small dog. It is crafted with fish oil for smooth skin and brain health. The high protein content is important for muscle power. The moderate fat and calorie values support a healthy weight and minimize the risk of obesity. 

The specialized kibble size makes it easier for your dog to pick and chew. This also makes digestion easier. This meal has high-quality prebiotics and fiber for smooth digestion and a healthy gut. Consuming Royal Canin Bichon Frisé formula boosts immunity and lowers the probability of inflammation with vitamins C and E. 

Furthermore, this formula is best for heart health with taurine and L-carnitine. The high levels of glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate reduce the risk of patellar luxation and hip and elbow dysplasia. 

Some downsides with this meal are lack of whole meat or meat meals. It also lacks whole vegetables or fruits. Avoid dogs with grain allergies and sensitivities as it has wheat, corn, and grains.

• First 5 Ingredients: Wheat, Chicken By-Product Meal, Corn, Brewers Rice, Wheat Gluten.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 27% min, Crude Fat 13% min, Crude Fiber 3.5% Max.
• Calories: 352  kcal/cup.
• Suitable for which dogs: Small breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding portions vary depending on your Bichon Frisé activity levels.
• Key Benefit: Optimal levels of DHA and EPA for cognitive health and mobility.
• Price: $50.21 per 10-lb bag ($5.02 per lb).

Solid Gold Mighty Mini Toy & Small Breed Dry Food

Solid Gold Mighty Mini is specially made for your small dog. It features probiotics support for smooth digestion. Works best for your sensitive Bichon Frisé as it has no gluten and is crafted with one protein source. It is also grain-free for your allergic dog. 

The pieces are crunchy for easier chewing and removal of plaque and tartar. Pumpkin,  peas, and sweet potatoes are important sources of carbohydrates to complement your dog’s energy needs. Salmon oil and flaxseed are excellent sources of omega 6 and 3 fatty acids and DHA for minimal frequencies of shedding and improved cognitive wellness.

Blueberries and cranberries are excellent sources of powerful antioxidants to support immunity and protect your dog against oxidative damage. Other superfoods like carrots, broccoli, kelp, and almonds are responsible for improved eyesight, better digestion, and overall health.

Bichon Frises weighing 2-15 pounds need a daily intake of ½ to 1 cup while those weighing 16-30 pounds need 1 to 1 ½ cups. You may adjust the amounts to suit your dog’s unique needs. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Chickpeas, Peas, Pea Protein.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 3% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
• Calories: 450  kcal/cup.
• Suitable for which dogs: Extra small, toy, and small breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding portions vary depending on your Bichon Frisé weight.
• Key Benefit: Chicken meals and chicken are the first two ingredients to fuel your dog’s muscles and tissues.
• Price: $33.29 per 11-lb bag ($3.03 per lb).

Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small Bites Dry Food 

This recipe from Hill’s Pet  Nutrition is perfect for your dog’s overall well-being. It features chicken as the number one ingredient to boost muscle strength. The first date of manufacturing is September 30th, 2004. 

The kibble comes in small bites that suit your dog’s muzzle for easy chewing and picking up. Whole-grain sorghum, cracked pearled barley, and whole-grain wheat provide carbohydrates to boost stamina. 

This formula uses natural easy-to-digest ingredients and is rich in fiber to minimize the risks of tummy upsets and promote regular bowel movements. The ingredients are sourced from trusted suppliers and the meal is made in the United States for quality assurance.

This diet is not fit for dogs with allergies and sensitivities as it is grain-inclusive and has wheat and corn. This recipe also includes 4 controversial ingredients which include brewers rice, whole grain wheat, chicken liver flavor, and pork flavor. Brewer rice is a low-quality ingredient as it has fewer nutrients. Dogs can be sensitive to wheat and artificial flavors.

• First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Cracked Pearled Barley, Whole Grain Wheat, Whole Grain Corn, Whole Grain Sorghum.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 20% min, Crude Fat 11.5% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
• Calories: 363  kcal/cup.
• Suitable for which dogs: Extra small, toy, and small breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding portions vary depending on your Bichon Frisé poundage.
• Key Benefit: Exclusive blend of antioxidants and omega-6 fatty acids to prevent inflammation and improve coat and skin health.
• Price: $17.99 per 5-lb bag ($3.59 per lb).

Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Small Breed Dry Food

If your Bichon Frisé can tolerate grains, then this is the right selection. Merrick Classic Healthy Grains by Merrick Pet Care is made with whole ingredients for maximum health and nutritional benefits. The initial date of production is January 14th, 2016. 

High-quality fiber from ancient grains like quinoa ensures smooth digestion and ideal weight. Omega-6 and 3 fatty acids are responsible for skin and coat well-being, reduced shedding, and less skin itchiness. Consuming Merrick Classic Formula reduces the risk of patellar luxation and hip dysplasia with leading levels of chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine. 

The fat value of 16% and calorie content of 404 kcal/cup work together to complement your dog’s energy levels. Ingredients like carrots and apples are the best sources of essential vitamins for skin and immune wellness. The daily intake for dogs weighing 3 pounds is ⅓ cup. For body weights ranging from 6 to 30 pounds, the daily consumption ranges from ⅔ cup to 2 cups. The guidelines on the chart should be the starting point. You may adjust according to your dog’s needs.

• First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Brown Rice, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Barley. 
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 27% min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 3.5% Max.
• Calories: 404  kcal/cup.
• Suitable for which dogs: Small breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding portions vary depending on your Bichon Frisé body weight.
• Key Benefit: Chicken is the first ingredient for amino acids to promote strong muscles and thick bones.
• Price: $44.98 per 12-lb bag ($3.75 per lb).

Wellness Small Breed Complete Dry Food 

Give your Bichon Frisé complete wellness with Wellness Small Breed Formula by Wellness. The first date of production is September 30th, 2004. This recipe features turkey, chicken meal, and salmon meal as the key ingredients for top-notch proteins to repair tissues and build powerful muscles. 

Oatmeal, brown rice, and oats are excellent sources of dietary fiber for digestive wellness while ground flaxseed and salmon oil provide omega fatty acids to boost coat and skin appearance. Carrots and spinach also support skin, coat, and digestive health.

The high levels of ascorbic acid and vitamin E promote immunity and prevent oxidative damage while taurine keeps the heart strong and healthy. Wellness Complete is formulated without meat by-products, GMOs, artificial preservatives, or fillers for your sensitive Bichon Frisé. 

Consuming this meal also helps with stool odor. It minimizes the odor of yucca schidigera. The daily feedings vary depending on your Bichon Frisé body weight. Weights ranging from 2 to 25 pounds thrive with varied amounts starting from ¼ cup to 1 ¾ cups. For mixed feeding, reduce dry amounts by ⅛ cup for every 2 tablespoons of wet food. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Chicken Meal, Salmon Meal, Oatmeal, Ground Brown Rice.
• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 28% min, Crude Fat 15% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
• Calories: 408  kcal/cup.
• Suitable for which dogs: Extra small, toy, and small breeds.
• Feeding: Optimal feeding portions vary depending on your Bichon Frisé poundage.
• Key Benefit: High levels of calcium, phosphorus, chondroitin, and glucosamine to minimize the risk of joint and hip problems.
• Price: $44.98 per 12-lb bag ($3.75 per lb).

What Facts Should You Know About Dog Foods for Bichon Frisé?

A well-balanced diet is great for your Bichon Frise’s healthy growth and development. Bichon Frises need a high protein diet, moderate fat value, sufficient calories, wholesome carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and essential supplements.

Look for real protein sources including beef and turkey. Salmon oil is great for healthy fats. 

Complex carbohydrate sources include quinoa and sweet potatoes. Vitamins A, C, and E are important for immunity while calcium and phosphorus support bone health.

Supplements like chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine are best for cartilage health. Here are other facts to know about dog food for Bichon Frise:

Health Concerns for Bichon Frisé and diet

Bichon Frises are susceptible to the following health problems:

• Joint issues: This includes patellar luxation and Legg-Calve-Perthes. Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap moves out of its regular position. This results in pain, inflammation, and cartilage damage. Both conditions are hereditary. Legg-Calve-Perthes is a condition where the blood does not flow to the thigh bone leading to the shrinking of the femur. A diet with joint and bone-friendly supplements including glucosamine, calcium, chondroitin, and phosphorus helps with these conditions.
• Vision problems: Bichon Frises are susceptible to hereditary cataracts. Cataracts can lead to blindness in the long run. Foods rich in vitamin A, DHA, or beta-carotene are best for eye problems. Excellent sources include carrots and pumpkins.
• Dental problems: Plaque and tartar can quickly build up in your Bichon Frise’s teeth. Diets with a crunchy texture help clean your dog’s teeth. Calcium and phosphorus also support teeth’ strength. 
• Bladder stones: Bichon Frises are at a higher risk of kidney and bladder stones than other breeds. Look for a diet with fewer purines. In addition, you should ensure your dog has access to clean water at all times.
• Diabetes: Bichon Frisé is also predisposed to diabetes. A low-glycemic, low-carb, and high-fiber diet is crucial.

What are the best dog foods for Bichon Frisé with different ingredients?

1. The Dog Food with Pumpkin for Bichon Frisé

• Purina Beyond Salmon, Egg, & Pumpkin Superfood Blend Dry Food: Salmon is the first ingredient for a muscular appearance. Bichon Frises are susceptible to eye problems and pumpkin is an excellent source of vitamin A for proper eyesight. 

2. The Best Dog Food with Glucosamine & Chondroitin for Bichon Frisé

• Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Senior Dry Food: Bichon Frisé is prone to joint problems including patellar luxation. This is the best diet as it contains glucosamine and chondroitin.

What are the best dog foods for Bichon Frisé with different health conditions?

Bichon Frisé is predisposed to diabetes and bladder stones.

1. The Best Dog Foods for Bichon Frisé with Diabetes

• Orijen Original Grain-Free Dry Food: It contains impressive amounts of proteins (38%) from real chicken and is low in carbs. This makes it the right selection for diabetic Bichon Frisé.

2. The Best Dog Foods for Bichon Frisé with Bladder Stones

• Hill’s Prescription Diet Urinary Care Chicken Flavor Dry Food: Designed specifically for urinary problems, this diet helps protect your dog against crystal formations. Crystal formations accumulate causing struvite bladder stones.

What Is the Ideal Calorie Intake for Bichon Frise?

The ideal calorie intake for Bichon Frisé varies depending on your dog’s activity levels. Highly active dogs need more calories than less active dogs. Lifestage also plays a vital role in determining the number of calories for your Bichon Frisé.

Bichon Frisé below 1 year is still growing and hence needs more calories than older Bichon Frises.

Your dog’s condition also dictates the number of calories per day. Pregnant and lactating dogs need more calories. Sick dogs may do well with fewer calories since they are not active. Here’s a guide on the number of calories according to your Bichon Frise’s activity levels:

Activity levels	Number of calories per day
Inactive or elderly Bichon Frises	296-495 calories
Active Bichon Frises	404-663 calories

What are the foods to avoid for Bichon Frisé?

Bichon Frises are susceptible to sensitive stomachs and allergies. This calls for foods that do not have wheat, soy, or wheat. A grain-free diet is the best selection for Bichons with grain allergies. Common foods to avoid for Bichon Frisé include the following:

Sausages, ham, and bacon:

These processed foods have lots of fat and salt. A high-fat diet is a recipe for pancreatitis while high salt content causes dehydration. Dehydration makes dogs consume lots of water leading to the expansion of the tummy and hence pressure on other body organs. 

Macadamia nuts:

Macadamia nuts are a choking hazard for your small Bichon. But this is not the main risk. The nuts have toxins that are deadly to your dog. Consuming macadamia nuts cause neurological problems including tremors, lameness, and drunken walking.

Rawhide Treats:

Rawhide bones have bacteria that cause digestive irritation and other bacterial problems. In addition, Bichons are small dogs and rawhides pose a choking and blockage hazard that is life-threatening. The bones can get stuck making it hard for your dog to breathe. Homemade treats are the best alternatives to rawhide treats.

Fatty meat and fat trimmings:

These Foods are also rich in fat and consuming them leads to pancreatitis and obesity. Obesity contributes to other chronic health issues including heart problems, joint issues, and diabetes. Common symptoms of pancreatitis are lethargy, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, vomiting, and fever.

Chocolate:

Chocolate has a toxic compound known as theobromine. All chocolate varieties including dark and white ones contain theobromine. Consuming chocolate leads to excessive shirts, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, tremors, and abnormal heartbeat. If you notice any of these signs after consumption, consult the vet immediately as it may be fatal.

Caffeine:

Although caffeine is a favorite of humans, it is a no-go zone for your tiny Bichon. Caffeine is so toxic that consuming large amounts can cause canine death. Common signs of caffeine toxicity include muscle tremors, bleeding, heart palpitations, restlessness, and fast breathing.

Is homemade food good for Bichon Frise?

Yes. Homemade foods are an excellent alternative to commercial dog foods. However, the process is time-consuming, and you may have to dig deeper into your pockets as the ingredients can be expensive. But the benefits outweigh the disadvantages. 

Homemade foods are great for Bichons with sensitivities and allergies as you can customize their foods. You are able to select ingredients that are friendly to them. Homemade foods also give you an opportunity to bond with your dog. 

Commercial dog foods are highly processed, and they are made under high temperatures and pressure. This leads to the loss of essential nutrients. Homemade foods are rich in nutrients as you can cook under low heat.

For maximum benefits and a balanced diet, it is best to work with the vet for guidelines on how to prepare your dog’s food. The vet can guide you on the supplement to add and the amounts to serve per day. 

Are Bichon Frisé picky eaters? 

Yes. Bichon Frises are picky eaters. Other small dogs that are selective include Maltese and Pekingese. The picky habit in Bichons is attributed to their susceptibility to allergies. Bichons enjoy lean meats. However, this should not be their only food. Provide a variety of foods for maximum nutrients and health benefits. Here are 3 ways to encourage your finicky eater Bichon:

• Have a routine: Serve your dogs at the same time each day. This prepares them psychologically. You should also have a plan on the type of food to serve. Do not give lots of varieties as this can turn them off.
• Go slow on treats: Treats should be an occasional treatment for good behavior or during special occasions. Training treats, table scraps, and dog chews can deter your dog from normal food. Treats encourage picky behavior.
• Set a deadline: Do not leave the food out all day for your Bichon. Let the food stay there for 20-30 minutes. Take them away and do not serve them until the next meal time. This sends a signal that failure to eat makes them hungry.