Think you’ve got a cuddly teddy bear for a pet? Think again. You’ve actually got a lion in your living room! Okay, not quite. But, if you are a proud owner of a Bichon Frise, then you have more of a guard dog than you might have imagined.
Despite their doll-like appearance and small size, these confident, cheerful and energetic dogs boast of a vibrant history that has seen them transition from the laps of French Royalty to the battlefields of World War I. Today, Bichon Frises have found a place in the hearts of families worldwide and are distinctly known for their outstanding watchdog abilities.
But hang on! Your Bichon Frise as a guard dog? You’re probably laughing right now. Hold on to that laughter as we journey through the captivating world of this charming little fluffy dog to understand why this claim isn’t as outrageous as it might seem.
Originally bred for entertainment purposes, the Bichon Frise is a small dog characterized by its curly white hypoallergenic fur, dark eyes, and expressive face. Their adorable looks can sometimes fool us into thinking they’re just cuteness-packed lap dogs. Yet, lurking beneath that soft ball of fluff is a dog with a surprisingly barky demeanor and an instinct to alert their family to potential danger.
Yes, the Bichon Frise lacks the size and physical power necessary to fend off an intruder, but their ability to bark loudly at any sign of potential threat is why many folks regard them as excellent guard dogs. They may not be able to wrestle an unwanted guest to the ground, but they sure can alert you of their presence.
Incidents involving Bichons making their presence felt, much to the surprise of potential intruders, are not uncommon. Take, for instance, the case of a five-year-old Bichon Frise in New Jersey who alerted her family when a burglar attempted to break into their home, or a case in the UK where a Bichon alarmed its owners of a gas leak. These examples emphasize that the Bichon Frise’s loyalty and devotion to their family know no bounds.
However, it is crucial to strike a balance. You certainly don’t want your Bichon Frise turning into a neurotic and incessantly barking dog. This can largely be controlled by proper socialization from a young age. They should be exposed to a variety of situations, environments, and people which helps them differentiate between common occurrences and actual threats.
The Bichon’s agile mind and alertness require regular mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Interactive toys and puzzle feeders are efficient ways to keep them occupied. In addition, training your Bichon Frise from puppyhood is key. Training methods that focus on positive reinforcement have reported good success with Bichons.
So, should you count on your Bichon Frise to stand guard while you’re asleep or away at work? Bichon Frises might not be the stereotypical guard dogs you’re used to seeing in movies or TV, but make no mistake; they are aware, alert, and serve as brilliant sentinels to their loving homes. Just don’t expect them to tackle down an intruder, unless, of course, the intruder is terrified of ferociously cute, fluffy dogs.
While they dutifully perform their watchdog role, the true joy of owning a Bichon Frise still lies in their uncanny ability to endlessly charm and amuse you with their playful antics and cheerful disposition. Compactly built and eternally happy, they are the perfect blend of an adorable lap dog, a vigilant watchdog, and an entertaining playmate.
No, a Bichon Frise is not the quintessential guard dog, but they are the little, yet mighty powerhouse of alertness and loyalty. So, the next time you look at your small, cute, fluffy bundle of joy, remember, it’s not just a pet. It’s a devoted guardian, recognize it.
