We will explore the common health issues that affect Bichon Frises, and find out what do bichon frise usually die from?

What affects their average lifespan, and the factors that can impact their longevity.

The Bichon Frise is a small, fluffy, and energetic breed of dog. Originating in the Mediterranean, their name means “curly lap dog” in French.

The Bichon Frise is categorized as part of the Non-Sporting Group by the AKC. They are known for having a white hypoallergenic coat that is dense and curly.

Bichon Frise dogs are on the smaller side, growing to be around 9-12 inches tall and weighing 7-12 pounds.

This breed has a medium life expectancy of about 12-15 years. Bichon Frises are cheerful, playful dogs that make very loyal and affectionate pets. They enjoy being around people and get along well with children.

Regular grooming is important for the Bichon Frise to prevent mats and tangles in their plush coat.

Though generally healthy, Bichon Frise are prone to certain health issues that may impact their lifespan. Understanding common causes of death can help Bichon Frise owners provide optimal care.

What Do Bichon Frise Usually Die From

According to dog experts, Cancer is the main cause of death among Bichon Frise. Various cancers may strike but are not prevalent in the breed. The probability increases significantly after age 10. Common cancers include lymphoma, mammary gland tumors, and others.

The other most common causes of death for Bichon Frise based on research studies are summarized below:

Old Age – Like humans, many Bichon simply die of old age once reaching the end of their natural lifespan. The body’s organs slowly decline until critical failure. Euthanasia often precedes death to prevent suffering.

Organ Failure – Chronic diseases like heart disease, kidney disease, and liver disease may result in congestive heart failure, renal failure, or other fatal organ dysfunction later in life.

Infections – Bacterial and viral infections such as parvovirus, distemper, kennel cough, and periodontal infections may overwhelm the immune system, particularly in unvaccinated dogs.

Trauma – Accidents like being struck by a vehicle are an unfortunate cause of untimely death. Due to their small size, Bichon can be vulnerable to severe injury.

Proper care and vigilance for signs of disease are key to prolonging a Bichon’s lifespan and avoiding premature death. Work closely with your veterinarian and create a senior wellness plan as your dog ages.

Typical Bichon Frise Lifespan

The average lifespan for a Bichon Frise is 12-15 years. With proper care, diet, exercise and regular veterinary visits, many can live into their late teens. Below are some of the most common medical conditions that may shorten the life expectancy of this breed.

Common Health Issues in Bichon Frise

• Allergies – Both skin and food allergies are common. Symptoms include itchy skin, ear infections, diarrhea/vomiting. Treatment involves identifying and avoiding allergen triggers.
• Dental Disease – Tartar buildup and gum infections. Can lead to tooth loss, pain, and spread harmful bacteria to other organs. Requires regular teeth brushing and professional cleanings.
• Bladder Stones – Mineral deposits that form in the urinary bladder. Causes difficulty/pain urinating. More common in males. Prescription diet and surgery may be needed.
• Cataracts – Clouding in the lens of the eye leading to blurred vision. Often progresses slowly with age but can cause blindness if not monitored. Surgery may restore vision.
• Heart Disease – Degeneration of heart valves (endocardiosis) leading to murmurs and congestive heart failure. Diuretics and other medications prescribed to manage symptoms.
• Cancer – Various cancers are possible but uncommon. Symptoms depend on type and location. May require chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery.
• Obesity – Excess weight strains the joints and organs. Can exacerbate other conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. Managed through proper diet and exercise.

Providing Optimal Care for your Bichon

Here are some tips to help support your Bichon Frise’s health and longevity:

Annual vet exams & diagnostics – Yearly visits to monitor for emerging issues. Regular bloodwork, dental checks, imaging as needed.

Vaccinations – Core vaccines and any others recommended by your vet. Important to prevent contagious deadly diseases.

Parasite prevention – Monthly heartworm, flea and tick medication prescribed by your vet. Vital in many regions.

Quality diet – Feed an age-appropriate commercial or homemade diet. Avoid fatty foods. Supplements if approved by your vet.

Exercise – Daily walks and playtime. Avoid obesity and joint strains. Adjust intensity as they age. Mental stimulation also important.

Grooming – Regular brushing and bathing, nail trims, anal gland expression, dental care. Helps avoid skin, fur and teeth issues.

Safety proofing – Secure toxic items, minimize fall risks, proper ID/tags. Prevents accidental poisoning or injury.

With attentive ownership and proactive veterinary care, your Bichon Frise can remain lively and healthy well into their senior years. Be vigilant for any signs of illness and address emerging conditions early. Getting the most quality years with your Bichon is the ultimate goal.

Bichon Frise Old Age Problems

Accumulation of plaque and tartar leading to infected gums, tooth loss, and pain. Requires more frequent teeth cleanings as they age.

Stiffness, difficulty standing up, and limping due to degenerative joint changes. Managed with medication, joint supplements, weight control, beds with extra padding, and gentle exercise.

Cloudy lenses that can progress to blindness. Surgery may help restore vision in some cases.

Weak heart valves cause murmurs and eventual congestive heart failure. Medications can help control symptoms and fluid buildup in lungs.

Decline in kidney function leads to waste buildup in blood. Controlled with dietary changes, IV fluids, medications.

Higher risk of cancers in older dogs. Lumps should be checked by a vet to determine if malignant. Treatment depends on type.

Disorientation, confusion, anxiety. Possible dementia medication but hard to diagnose in dogs. Consistent routines help.

Weakened bladder sphincter causes accidental leakage of urine. Medications or dietary modifications may reduce incidence.

Excess weight strains joints. Can worsen arthritis and other problems. Important to monitor diet and exercise.

Routine vet checkups including bloodwork help detect emerging issues early in senior Bichon Frise. Addressing problems promptly can extend their active years.

Bichon Frise Lumps on Skin

Benign fatty tumors that feel soft and movable under the skin. Very common in older dogs. Usually noncancerous but should be monitored.

Fluid-filled lumps containing fatty secretions from oil glands. Can rupture or get infected. Often cleared up with topical treatments.

Caused by viral infection. Appear as small cauliflower-like growths on face, feet or genital region. Usually resolve on their own.

Cancerous tumors of the skin. Can have a varied appearance. Need biopsy to confirm. Surgical removal recommended.

Rapidly growing bumps common in young dogs. Often mistaken for cancer but usually regress spontaneously.

Pockets of pus caused by a bacterial infection. Drainage and antibiotics are the treatment.

Can prompt development of fluid-filled wheals, irritated patches or blisters on the skin.

Mast cell cancer, melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma are less common but possible.

It’s important to have new lumps or skin changes evaluated promptly by your veterinarian to determine if biopsy or treatment is recommended. Catching growths like mast cell tumors early maximizes the chances for successful removal. Most are benign but it’s best to be sure.

Important Questions

What do most Bichons die from?

The leading causes of death for Bichon Frise are generally old age, cancer, organ failure, infections, and trauma or accidents. As with any breed, providing proper veterinary care, a healthy diet, exercise, and attentive ownership can help minimize risks and prolong the Bichon’s lifespan. Being aware of their health predispositions allows owners to be vigilant and catch issues early.

What is a Bichon Frise life expectancy?

The average life expectancy for a healthy Bichon Frise is 12-15 years. Some can live into their late teens with optimal care and a bit of luck in avoiding serious medical conditions. Getting a Bichon from a reputable breeder helps stack the odds for a long life. Annual vet visits, vaccinations, high quality nutrition, active lifestyle, and responsive care when they do get sick all support longevity.

What is the most common illness in Bichon Frise?

The most prevalent health issue in the breed is allergies, both environmental and food-related. Bichon are prone to skin irritations, chronic ear infections, and gastrointestinal issues when allergens are present. Working with the vet to identify triggers and using medications can help manage allergic symptoms. Other common illnesses include dental disease, cataracts, bladder stones, and joint problems.

What is poisonous to Bichon Frise?

Many common food items and household substances can be toxic to Bichon Frise including chocolate, xylitol (artificial sweetener), grapes/raisins, macadamia nuts, caffeine, alcohol, moldy foods, toxic plants, rat poison, and some medications. Pesticides and lawn chemicals can also be hazardous if ingested. Always keep dangerous items secured and out of reach.

Being aware of a Bichon’s health tendencies allows owners to provide attentive care to maximize longevity and quality of life for their beloved small companion. Consistent vet visits for prevention and early diagnosis make a big difference.

How can I best care for my senior Bichon Frise?

More frequent veterinary checkups, bloodwork and cancer screening tests for early disease detection. Adjust their diet and exercise routine for any age-related limitations. Keep their mind active and spend quality time together.

What symptoms require urgent vet attention?

Difficulty breathing, prolonged vomiting/diarrhea, severe lameness or pain, seizures, profuse bleeding, pale gums, collapse, crying/whining, or a drastic change in behavior or appetite are all red flags requiring prompt veterinary assessment.

Category	Details
Origins	Originated in Mediterranean region, including Spain and France
Size	9-12 inches tall, 7-12 pounds
Coat	Thick, cottony, hypoallergenic white coat
Grooming Needs	Require regular brushing and clipping to prevent mats
Lifespan	Average 12-15 years
Personality	Playful, cheerful, affectionate, enjoy human interaction
Exercise Needs	Daily walks and playtime, can adapt to apartment living
Health Issues	Prone to allergies, dental disease, cataracts, bladder stones
Training	Respond well to positive reinforcement, moderately easy to train
Ideal Home	Active households, families with older children, any owner able to provide attentive care