Italian-Bichon is playful, energetic, and intelligent. These pint-sized pooches have larger-than-life personalities that can make almost anyone fall in love with them; their charisma and ability to show affection are just irresistible. The Italian-Bichon is a hybrid that brings together two fun-loving and active dogs; The Bichon Frise and the Italian Greyhound.
Not only is this breed a complete box of fun, but their parents have a rich history as well. The Italian Greyhound is an ancient breed that can be dated back as much as 7000 years! The Italian Bichon has a well-built and lean body covered in a shaggy coat that requires a decent amount of grooming to maintain.
Italian-Bichon History
The Italian-Bichon is a comparatively new designer breed, so there isn’t much history to their names. We can look at their parent’s history to get to know them better. The Bichon Frise is believed to have its origins for more than 2000 now; these small-sized dogs developed in Spanish mainlands are also believed to connect with the French.
The Italian Greyhound is an ancient breed that originated in Turkey and Greece, and they share their ancestry with dogs like the sighthound. Hunters used these canines for hunting smaller animals like rats and vermin, but now they are mainly used as companion dogs.
Italian-Bichon Characteristics
The Italian-Bichon is lean, athletic, and slender; they have a compact build that gives these small pups an appealing look. Their long narrow face features a set of deep, brown eyes and a long muzzle with a black nose. Their ears are triangular, floppy at the tips, and are mostly covered with a fine layer of hair.
These graceful pups have a fine coat with short straight hair. There are various colors their coat can adopt, but the most common ones are cream, fawn, sable, and white with apricot or red markings. But no matter what color their coat may be, it is safe to say that they will look stunning in each one of them.
How Big Do Italian-Bichon Get
Italian-Bichon is a small-sized dog. The males have an average height of around 12 – 15 inches and an average weight of 12 – 18 lbs. The females in this breed are usually smaller, with an average height of 10 – 14 inches and an average weight of 10 – 15 lbs.
How Long Does an Italian-Bichon Live
Italian-Bichon is a small-sized dog, which usually lives longer as compared to large-sized ones. And this breed typically has a life span of around 12 – 14 years. You can ensure that they live their longest by taking good care of them and regularly taking them to the vet.
How much Does an Italian-Bichon Cost
The average price for an Italian-Bichon from a reputable breeder may range between $1400 – $4000. But it would be best to stock up on essentials like leashes, collars, and beds before you take your pup home; this will ensure that they feel more comfortable once they arrive.
Italian-Bichon Temperament/Personality
Italian-bichon is laid-back, shy, and playful. These introverts can be quite hesitant around new faces and people they don’t know, but you’ll see a completely different personality when they are around their family. These pups are usually well-behaved around children and other pets.
But you may have to keep an eye on them when they are around children because they tend to get annoyed when they’re constantly provoked. They are also quite intelligent, which makes them super-easy to train and fun to be with. Due to their affectionate nature, they might want to be with you, wherever you go and no matter what you’re doing.
Caring for Italian-Bichon
Caring for a dog usually comes down to taking care of their daily requirements; This includes their Caloric requirements, grooming requirements, and activity requirements. In addition, it is best to ensure that you’re using the right products and tools available to make your pup’s life better. Keep on reading to find out all you need to know about caring about your furry fellow.
Italian-Bichon Nutrition
As a tiny dog, the Italian-Bichon tends to eat less than the large-sized canines to maintain its weight and fuel its body. Therefore, it would be best to start with one cup of high-quality dog food per day. But it is recommended that you follow your vet’s advice in this regard.
How to Groom an Italian-Bichon
As a hybrid, The Italian-Bichon can inherit its coat from either of its parents; They can either have the longer and denser coat of the Bichon Frise or inherit the fine coat of Italian Greyhound. If they resemble the Italian Greyhound’s coat, brushing them once or twice per week would be sufficient, but if they inherit the Bichon Frise’s dense coat, they aim to brush them at least 3 – 4 times per week with a hard-bristled brush.
Italian-Bichon Activity Levels
Italian-Bichon requires a fair amount of exercise to stay in shape and live a healthy life. These intelligent canines love to have some activity in their life instead of being lazy potatoes that sit on the couch all day long. So, ensure that you take them on walks and play with them often, aim for at least 45 minutes of exercise daily.
Caring for Italian-Bichon
As a highly intelligent and sensitive dog, the Italian-Bichon can get bored quite easily. This can lead to the development of self-destructive behavior in your pooch that you want to avoid. So, take some time for your pup, play with them, and ensure that they are not left alone for long periods.
Italian-Bichon Health
This breed can develop various health problems throughout their lives, especially at an older age. So, it is wise to know what potential problems your pup can develop and be ready if they start showing signs for any. The most common health concerns include Urolithiasis, Patent Ductus Arteriosus, Cataracts, Shaker Dog Syndrome, Hemophilia, and Kidney Disease.
Breeds Similar to Italian-Bichon
- Wire Fox Rat Terrier
- Spanish Hound
- Norrbottenspet
- Small Swiss Hound
- Pug
Best Dog Food For Italian-Bichon
The best dog food for the Italian-Bichon is Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food. The product contains all the necessary nutrients essential for the healthy growth of the body. It contains high proteins, which are obtained from bison and buffalo.
- It contains omega-3 & omega-6 fatty acids.
- It contains antioxidants from real fruits and vegetables.
- It contains dried chicory root for prebiotic support and healthy digestion.
Best Puppy Food For Italian-Bichon
The best puppy food for the Italian-Bichon is Merrick Grain-Free Real Texas Beef + Sweet Potato Puppy Food. The food contains all the essential nutrients required for the healthy growth of your pup. It is crafted with whole foods and real deboned chicken.
- It contains glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy skin and coat.
- It contains DHA from fatty acids for healthy brain development.
- It is grain-free, made from natural ingredients, and contains high-quality proteins.
Best Dog Crate For Italian-Bichon
The best dog crate for the Italian-Bichon is Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate. It easy to set-up and assemble, making it easy to carry around. It is made up of high-quality nylon, so will stay functional even after a longer time.
- It is water-resistant and is made up of a sturdy steel structure.
- It is well-ventilated and washable.
- It has top and front zippered doors for easy access.
Best Dog Bed For Italian-Bichon
The best dog bed for the Italian-Bichon is MidWest QuietTime Defender Orthopedic Bolster Cat & Dog Bed. It is provided with an egg-crate base, with a super soft fleece lining that makes it an orthopedic bed. It is made of comfortable and quality materials and stylish for your Italian-Bichon!
- It is machine washable.
- It features a thick foam bolster for extra support.
- It is provided with a Teflon cover that is water, strain, and odor resistant.
Best Dog Harness For Italian-Bichon
The best dog harness for the Italian-Bichon is Best Pet Supplies Voyager Black Trim Mesh Dog Harness. It is made soft, lightweight, and breathable for the comfort of your Italian-Bichon. It attaches directly to your Italian-Bichon with double security.
- It is provided with adjustable belts.
- It has sturdy 2-D rings to easily attach the leash.
- It is made from high-quality fabric.
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