How to Feed a Bichon Frise

A bichon frise is small and cute, but should eat from a dog bowl like any other canine.

Like many other breeds of toy dogs, bichon frises can be very finicky when it comes to food. This has its good and bad points. But you need to be finicky when picking good food for your bichon, with help from your veterinarian. Bichons have different nutritional needs during the different stages of their lives. A sudden change in appetite is usually a sign that the dog is sick. The sooner the dog is taken to the vet, the sooner the problem can be fixed.

Things You'll Need

• Veterinarian
• Measuring cup
• 2 types of dry dog food
• Canned dog food (Optional)

Instructions

1. Decide where your bichon frise will eat its main meals. This should be away from the human dinner table.

2. Take your new bichon to the vet for help and advice in feeding. Your bichon puppy should come with food that the breeder was feeding it. If your bichon is from a shelter, they should be able to tell you what brand of food the dog was eating.

3. Feed a bichon frise puppy four times a day until they are 3 months old. Take the food away if they aren't interested in it after 15 minutes.

4. Feed your dog three times a day from 3 to 6 months of age.

5. Feed twice a day from 6 months old on. In really hot weather, your dog might only want to eat at night. Feed only food for adult dogs and the occasional treat. Pregnant bichons can go back on puppy food until the puppies are weaned.

Tips & Warnings

• Memorize the list of forbidden foods in "Don't Feed Your Dog These Foods."

• Many bichons like diced carrots as a low-calorie treat.

• Supplements and vitamins should only be given when your veterinarian says that your dog needs them.

• Puppies need high protein food of 20 to 25 percent protein.

• Older dogs need food of 5 percent or less of fat.

• Make water available all the time for your bichon to drink.

• Don't feed a bichon frise only people food or mostly people food. This will make them sick.

• Don't let a bichon frise on your lap as you eat. This will lead to problems.

• Don't feed cat food to your bichon frise. It does not have enough nutrients to keep your bichon healthy.

• Don't suddenly switch dog food brands. This leads to digestive troubles. Gradually mix the new food in with the familiar food.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Bichon Frise Guide: Dog Training Treats Your Bichon Frise Will Die For
• Dog Channel: Feeding the Fluffy Bichon Frise
• Drs. Foster and Smith: Dog Food FAQ: Feeding Puppies and Pregnant and Nursing Dogs