How many types of bichon are there? Although the first that comes to mind is the M altese bichon, the truth is that it is not the only type of bichon dog that exists. Currently, the International Cinological Federation (FCI) officially recognizes four types of bichon, grouped in section 1 of group 9, belonging to those classified as "companion dogs". Within this same section, it adds two more breeds because they are very similar to bichon dogs, although, theoretically, they are not bichons.
Having said the above, in this article on our site we are going to talk about the four types of bichon and the two breeds that FCI classifies as "similar" due to their physical characteristics.
1. Bichon Frize
Although its exact origin is unknown, the Bichon Frisé was developed in France, initially, and also in Belgium after the two world wars, at which time the breed almost became extinct. This dog was very popular as a companion dog among the upper class due to its peculiarities, both physical and of character. Currently, it is still a very loved dog by practically everyone.
The bichon frize, also known as the curly-haired bichon, is a small dog characterized by its leafy coat It is composed of two layers: a dense and soft inner one and an outer one with well-marked curls. Although at first glance it may seem that your hair has a woolly texture, it really is not, this appearance occurs when brushing the very defined curls that it has. In this sense, it should be noted that we are dealing with a dog that requires a lot of care to keep its coat in perfect condition, ideally going to the dog grooming salon once a month.
As for its character, this type of Bichon is one of the most sociable and calm In general, it is not usually a barking or restless dog. Of course, he tends to establish a very strong bond with his human companions, which is why he can develop separation anxiety if he is not taught to be alone.
two. Havanese Bichon
Despite its name, the Havanese originated not in Cuba, but in Mediterranean regions of Spain and Italy. Apparently, these dogs were taken to Cuba by Italian captains, where they were called "blanquitos de la Habana" because, at that time, they were completely white dogs. Over the years, after experiencing times in which it almost disappeared and the selection of different breeds such as the poodle for the breeding and development of this type of bichon, the dog we know today was reached.
Currently, the Havanese has a coat with spots that can be black, brown or tan in all its shades. The base is still white, but completely white specimens are rarely seen. Nevertheless, this solid pattern continues to be accepted. The coat of this bichon does have a woolly undercoat and an outer coat that can be wavy, smooth or curly.
In reference to his character, he is active, playful, alert and very happy. It is usually easy to train, but we must point out that it is usually a barker and can be distrustful of strangers if it is not properly socialized.
3. M altese Bichon
It is one of the types of bichon considered a toy or miniature dog, since its weight is usually around 3 kg, or even less in some specimens. Likewise, at present, it is the most popular of all worldwide. It is suspected that it is a very old breed, whose exact origin is unknown, since documents have been found dating from the time of Aristotle, about the year 384 BC, in which dogs called "Melitense dogs" appear.
The M altese can be white or very light ivory in color and has a long, straight, silky coat Occasionally, it can be seen with slight waves, especially when you have shorter hair, but more often than not have straight hair. As with the previous bichons, the M altese needs to receive very strict care to maintain this coat well. Knots or dirt buildup could bring serious he alth problems.
The M altese is also a dog intelligent and calm, as long as he is accompanied. In the absence of the human from him, he may develop separation anxiety and/or become destructive if he doesn't get the daily exercise he needs. Likewise, it is a dog that usually remains alert, so barking is more common in this breed than in others.
Types of M altese dogs
Although the FCI does not differentiate between types of M altese, over the years two slightly different lines have been developed: the American M altese and the European M altese.
- American M altese Bichon: smaller in size, with a somewhat flatter snout and longer hair. It is called the toy M altese bichon.
- European M altese Bichon: with a longer, slightly larger snout and a shorter coat.
Nevertheless, we insist that the FCI does not differentiate between types of M altese Bichon, so, officially, there is only one type that can present some variations.
4. Bichon Bolognese
The last of the official bichon dog types recognized by cynological organizations. Its origin is not known for sure, although it is suspected that it could be related to the origin of the M altese puppy and, sometimes, it is even confused. What is known is that this dog became very popular in Bologna during the Renaissance, an Italian city that gave rise to the breed's name.
The Bolognese is also a miniature dog, weighing about 4 kg and no more than 30 cm tall at the withers. The hair of this dog is long, very fluffy and completely whiteAt most, it can have slight shades of ivory, but it is usually pure white. Again, this is a dog that needs brushing and proper care to avoid knots and dirt.
His character stands out for being very calm and docile. He is very affectionate, intelligent, loyal and obedient but, as in the previous cases, due to the attachment he develops he can suffer from separation anxiety.
5. Coton de Tuléar
Once the official bichon types are finished, we are going to meet the dogs similar to the bichon and that the FCI includes in the same section. We start with the Coton de Tuléar, a dog originally from Madagascar but developed in France. It is a small-sized dog, whose body is longer than it is tall, weighing between 3, 5 and 6 kg. His dense, long, silky, shiny and straight coat stands out, which gives him that appearance of cotton texture, reason for which it receives that name. The accepted color is white, although ivory is also accepted.
The Coton de Tuléar is intelligent, affectionate, playful but calm at the same time. Due to its intelligence, it is easy to train and socialize, since it is also a very sociable dog. Of course, as with the previous breeds, the Coton can develop separation anxiety if it is not educated correctly to remain alone at home. To do this, we recommend consulting this article: "How to get an adult dog used to being alone?"
6. Little Lion Dog
Also developed in France, it is suspected that this canine breed could already be present in the 13th century, since in the cathedral of Amiens there are small dogs similar to this one carved in rock. Throughout its history, it has been a highly appreciated and loved dog due to its peculiar appearance, similar to that of a small lion. However, this appearance is not entirely natural, since it is a cut style associated with this breed and is mandatory if presented at shows canines.
Naturally, without a haircut, the little lion dog has a long, wavy, silky and dense coat all over its body. In this breed all colors and combinations are accepted, so it can be seen as white, spotted, grey, brown…
This dog stands out for being extremely obedient, attentive, affectionate and receptive This means that it is an ideal dog for almost anyone, since he is playful with children, calm enough to live with older or more sedentary people and easy to train. Now, this breed of dog is not exempt from the main behavior problem that all the previous ones present: it also develops separation anxiety due to the company it usually needs. However, with a good education it doesn't have to happen.
