Do Bichons Frises Like to Cuddle?

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Do Bichons Frises Like to Cuddle?Bichons Frises are a popular breed that has been around for a long time. Their popularity is consistent, and for good reason – they make great pets! But if you’re looking for a dog to cuddle, you might be wondering whether or not the fluffy little Bichon Frise is a suitable pet for you.

Continue reading to find out.

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Do Bichons Frises Like to Cuddle?

Bichons Frises, just like some of the other bichon-type breeds, were literally bred to be companion dogs. They are very affectionate and loyal dogs, and many people love them for these exact qualities. The vast majority of Bichons Frises are almost always up for a cuddle.

This does of course vary from dog to dog, as each individual dog will have its own temperament and personality, so there is never a guarantee that any pet you get will like cuddling, no matter their breed’s usual traits. This is particularly true for pets who have been rescued, adopted or fostered, as they may have turbulent histories.

5 Reasons Why You Should Cuddle with Your Bichon Frise

If your Bichon Frise is up for cuddling, then you should definitely make the most of it. Cuddling with a dog is one of the best experiences ever, and there are plenty of benefits to cuddling with your pet for both you and them!

1. It Can Relieve Stress

Studies suggest that cuddling with your pet can help encourage the release of cortisol within your body. Cortisol plays a key role in managing, reducing and relieving stress. A sudden release or increase of cortisol can really help you to relax and let go of anything going on behind the scenes – even if it is just for a moment.

Cortisol can also help suppress inflammation and swelling, so cuddling your Bichon Frise could potentially help you medically, too!

2. It Can Help Their Mental Health

Did you know that dogs can experience mental illness, just like humans? Bichons Frises can develop depression and anxiety in the same way that we can, and they are actually particularly prone to mental illness compared to other breeds due to their sensitive nature.

Luckily, cuddling with your Bichon Frise can help boost their mood. Much like humans, dogs need physical touch and connection in order to feel needed and loved. Plus, dogs are pack animals, and cuddling can help to make them feel less isolated and more included in your life.

3. It Can Help Solidify Your Bond

If you start cuddling with your Bichon Frise from a young age/from when you first get them, it can really help to solidify the bond between you.

Just like when mothers breastfeed their child, cuddling and socializing with your dog will help to encourage your body to release oxytocin which encourages the formation of strong bonds and emotional connections.

4. It Can Make You Happy, Calm, and Help You Heal

As mentioned above, cuddling with your Bichon Frise will encourage the production of oxytocin within your body. This chemical is a hormone, and it is responsible for a lot of actions within the body. It can help to make us happy, reduce anxiety and stress, and it even promotes healing within the body!

5. Because Why Not!

If your Bichon Frise is happy to cuddle, then you should make the most of it, regardless of all of the health benefits. They are your pet, a member of your family, and they’re just so cute! Why wouldn’t you cuddle them?

3 Things to Do If Your Bichon Frise Doesn’t Enjoy Cuddling

Sometimes, dogs aren’t big cuddlers. If that’s the case, and your Bichon Frise just doesn’t seem into the cuddling, do not fret. There is plenty that you can do to spend quality time with your little fluffy buddy.

1. Take Them Running or Jogging

It should go without saying that dogs need exercise on a regular basis. If you are a runner or a jogger, you can take your Bichon Frise with you when you jog or run to ensure that you both get your exercise together. This allows you to spend time with them whilst also benefiting your and their health.

To help with this, consider getting a hands-free lead. That way you can carry a bottle of water with you when you run or jog. It’s also worth remembering that Bichons Frises are small and so might not be able to keep up with you in a full sprint!

2. Take Them on a Bike Ride

The Bichon Frise is a great size, and can be easily slotted into the basket of a bicycle. Alternatively, you can attach them to the bike or to you and take them running alongside your bicycle for a great workout for the pair of you! Just be careful not to wobble, and make sure you’re a confident cyclist.

Do not cycle on the road with your dog.

3. Agility Classes

Bichons Frises are relatively intelligent dogs, and agility classes can be something that they will really excel at. You can find agility classes near you and go along of an evening to see what your little buddy is truly capable of. It’s a great way to meet other dog owners, to allow your dog to socialize, and can be really enjoyable for the both of you.

3 Other Cuddly Breeds to Consider

If a Bichon Frise doesn’t seem like it is up your street, there are plenty of other cuddly dog breeds out there. Perhaps, if not a Bichon Frise, you could consider:

1. Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is easily one of the most popular breeds in the US and across the world. They’re smart, adorable, affectionate, and they definitely love a cuddle. Consider a Golden Retriever if you’re after a cuddly breed a little bit bigger than a Bichon Frise.

I compared the two breeds in more detail here.

2. Newfoundland

For fans of big dogs, a Newfoundland is a great cuddly dog breed. They are lovely and big, fluffy, and absolute sweethearts. They’re known for being friendly and cuddly, and despite being the same size as you, will definitely think that they’re a lap dog.

3. Corgi

Corgis are very beloved small dogs with a heart of gold. They’re favored by people like Queen Elizabeth II, the current queen of England, and are always up for a good cuddle. They’re affectionate, smart and consider their owners to be a crucial part of their pack.

I compared the Corgi with the Bichon Frise in detail here.

Summary

If you’re looking for a small, cuddly dog, then a Bichon Frise is definitely a suitable breed for you. However, it is important to remember that just because their breed is usually affectionate, it doesn’t always mean that they will be! But fret not, there’s plenty to do with an adorable Bichon Frise that doesn’t include cuddling.

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