Best Dog Food For Bichon Frises 2024 — Adult, Puppy, Senior & More

ByCanine Bible
Best Dog Food For Bichons Frises

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This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Sandra Tashkovska, DVM.

This is the ultimate guide to finding the best dog food for Bichon Frises. We’ve spent years researching and analyzing dog diets, mainly focusing on Bichon Frises, and have compiled the best formulas that satisfy the unique needs of this breed. Plus, we provide advice and practical tips on Bichon nutrition so you can make an informed decision about their diet and the food you feed them. Let’s get started!

In This Article:
In This Article:

Best Dog Food For Bichon Frises — At A Glance

Best Overall

JustFoodForDogs

Made with fresh, human-grade
ingredients to offer the most optimal
nutrition for your Bichon Frise

Visit Website

Read Review ↆ

Best Dry Food

Jinx

A new kind of dry dog food
with the flavor and benefits of fresh
food with the convenience of kibble

Visit Website

Read Review ↆ

Puppy Pick

Open Farm

Perfect for Bichon Frise puppies.
Contains all the nutrients puppies need to
develop and grow healthy.

Visit Website

Read Review ↆ

Best Value

Royal Canin Bichon Frise Adult Dry Dog Food, 10 lb bag
Royal Canin

The cheapest option if you are
looking for a budget-friendly dog
food for your Bichon Frise

Visit Amazon

Read Review ↆ

Best For Senior

Open Farm

Complete and balanced nutrition
designed to meet the specific needs
of senior purebred Bichon Frise

Visit Website

Read Review ↆ

Best Raw

Instinct

For dog parents looking to raw-feed
their Bichon Frises. Has all the nutrients and
vitamins dogs need to thrive.

Visit Chewy

Read Review ↆ

Sensitive Stomach Pick

Hill’s

Formula fortified with prebiotics
for healthy digestion for Bichon Frises
with sensitive tummies.

Visit Amazon

Read Review ↆ

Best For Allergies

Royal Canin

Made with hydrolyzed protein for adult
dogs & puppies with food allergies
that cause skin issues. 

Visit Chewy

Read Review ↆ

Best Grain-Free

Open Farm

For dogs with allergies or sensitivity
to grain. Made with premium-quality
beef, chicken & other meats. 

Visit Website

Read Review ↆ

Best Wet

JustFoodForDogs

Shelf stable fresh wet dog food
that offers a premium and delicious
stew-like texture.

Visit Website

Read Review ↆ

The Research
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What Is The Best Food For Bichon Frises?

As a [Enter Size] and [Enter Adjectie] breed, Bichon Frises have distinct nutritional needs that require careful consideration. The best food for a Bichon Frise is balanced and appropriate for their life stage, health, activity levels (energy needs) and weight (size). This will ensure your Bichon Frise is healthy, develops appropriately, and can sustain daily activities and bodily functions.

When deciding the best diet for a Bichon Frise, it’s essential also to consider individual preferences such as taste or food type. Some Bichon Frises may thrive on high-quality commercial kibble, while others may do better on a human-grade fresh diet or a professionally formulated home-cooked diet.

How to Pick The Best Dog Food For Bichon Frises

1. Consider The Bichon Frise’s Nutritional Requirements

The optimal Bichon Frises diet for nutrition typically includes a combination of the six nutrients they need to thrive: High-quality protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats (fatty acids and omegas), vitamins, minerals, and water.

Protein plays a vital role in your Bichon Frise’s diet, providing essential amino acids necessary for bodily processes, including the creation of blood glucose for energy. Protein also helps build and repair muscles and other body tissues. It’s needed to make new skin cells and grow hair, hormones, and enzymes. The proteins in your dog’s diet must have a balanced amino acid profile and be provided in appropriate amounts.

Protein dietary recommendations for Bichon Frise food:

  • Adult Bichon Frises. 18% dry matter protein (45.0g for every 1,000 kcal ME).
  • Puppies & Pregnant or Lactating Bichon Frises. 22.5% dry matter protein (56.3g for every 1,000 kcal ME).

Protein sources for Bichon Frise food include:

  • Chicken
  • Beef
  • Turkey
  • Lamb
  • Salmon
  • Duck
  • Whitefish
  • Cooked eggs

Fats play a crucial, multifaceted role in a Bichon Frise’s diet. Fats come in two forms: saturated and unsaturated. Both are important in a Bichon Frise’s diet, but it’s essential to maintain the right balance. Saturated fats, derived from animal sources, enhance the palatability, flavor and texture of your dog’s food and facilitate the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. On the other hand, essential fatty acids, which are unsaturated fats, include Omega-3 (EPA, DHA, and ALA) and Omega-6+9 (LA and AA). These fats are crucial for the body’s cells’ development, structure, and function.

When balanced correctly, they promote healthy skin and coat, support eye health and the nervous system function, regulate hormones, fuel the brain and learning processes, help reduce inflammation, offer insulation and organ protection, support reproductive health, and serve as a reserve for energy storage. Fats are a dense energy source.

Fat dietary recommendations for Bichon Frise food:

  • Adult Bichon Frise. 5.5% dry matter fat (13.8g for every 1,000 kcal ME).
  • Puppies & Pregnant or Lactating Bichon Frise. 8.5% dry matter fat (21.3g for every 1,000 kcal ME).

Fat sources for Bichon Frise food include:

  • Meats fats
  • Fish oils
  • Olive
  • Sunflower oil
  • Canola oils

Dogs need energy for daily activities, growth, pregnancy, lactation, and exercise. This energy, measured in calories, comes from carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Omnivorous animals, including dogs, derive some energy from carbohydrates. Carbohydrates supply glucose needed by the brain, nervous system, and other critical organs for normal function in dogs. Carbohydrates should also include 2.5-4.5% fiber. You can use our dog calorie calculator to find the exact caloric needs of your dog based on his weight. Ensure you follow the 10% rule if feeding treats to your dog. Food would equal 90% of the total calories and treats the remaining 10%.

Carbohydrate sources for Bichon Frise food include:

  • Oats
  • Brown rice
  • Potatoes
  • Quinoa
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Whole wheat

Minerals in a dog’s diet are indispensable for bone and dental health, nerve function, enzymatic reactions, fluid balance, oxygen transport, and maintaining the body’s pH level, making them essential for overall health and metabolic processes. Proper mineral balance is crucial and should be carefully managed to avoid deficiencies or excesses.

These 12 minerals are known to be essential nutrients for dogs:

  • Calcium
  • Potassium
  • Sodium
  • Magnesium
  • Iodine
  • Chlorine
  • Iron
  • Copper
  • Selenium
  • Manganese
  • Zinc
  • Phosphorus

Mineral sources for Bichon Frise food include:

  • Sweet potatoes and pumpkin (Magnesium)
  • Fish (Iodine)
  • Beef, eggs, and liver (Zinc)
  • Poultry, nuts, and legumes (Copper)
  • Bananas and carrots (Potassium)
  • Chicken and duck (Iron)

Vitamins in a dog’s diet are integral for maintaining overall health and bodily functions. They support vision, immune health, aid in energy metabolism and nervous system function, provide antioxidant benefits, reduce inflammation, prevent diseases and ailments and more. Dogs require vitamins, but only in small amounts, and excessive doses of specific vitamins, like vitamin D, can harm them.

These 12 vitamins are known to be essential nutrients for dogs:

  • Vitamins A, B1, B6, B12, D, E & K
  • Riboflavin
  • Niacin
  • Folic Acid
  • Pantothenic Acid
  • Choline

Vitamin sources for Bichon Frise food include:

  • Sweet potatoes and spinach (Vitamin A)
  • Eggs, chicken, and beef (Vitamin B)
  • Broccoli (Vitamin C)
  • Kale and parsley (Vitamin K)
  • Vegetables (Vitamin E)
  • Meats and fish (Vitamin D)

Water is vital in a dog’s diet to maintain hydration, support body functions such as digestion, nutrient absorption, and waste excretion, lubricate joints, regulate body temperature, ensure proper organ function, and facilitate metabolic processes. Continuous access to clean water is as crucial as providing nutritious food for overall health and well-being. Generally, Bichon Frises should drink 2 to 3 times the amount of their dry food intake daily. However, if water is readily available from various sources, Bichon Frises can naturally regulate water consumption daily.

2. Consider Your Bichon Frise’s Health Conditions

Nutrition is crucial in managing and preventing common health issues in Bichon Frises. Talk to a veterinarian if your Bichon Frise has a health condition. They can recommend the most suitable diet for them. Below are some general dietary tips to help you choose the best dog food or supplement for addressing the most common Bichon Frise health problems.

Food allergies

Certain ingredients in their food can cause allergies in Bichon Frises. This occurs when a dog’s immune system identifies a specific protein, carbohydrate, or other ingredients in their diet as foreign and reacts to it as if it were a harmful substance. Food allergies in Bichon Frises may present as dry, itchy skin, ears, or paws. It’s important to note that food intolerances can also occur. However, intolerances do not involve the immune system but can lead to vomiting or diarrhea.

To manage or prevent food allergies in Bichon Frises, consider these diet tips:

  • Avoid common allergens such as corn, wheat, chicken, and beef.
  • Conducting a dog food allergy test or at-home dog food allergy tests like the 5Strands kit (test for up to 255 ingredients) may help determine food allergies or intolerance in your dog. Use the results to avoid food formulas that contain potential allergens.

Sensitive stomach

Bichon Frises can have sensitive digestive systems, a condition where a dog has difficulty digesting certain foods or experiences frequent digestive upset. This can manifest in various symptoms and may be caused by various factors.

To manage or prevent sensitive stomachs in Bichon Frises, consider these diet tips:

Hip dysplasia

This is a common condition in Bichon Frises, which occurs when the joints don’t develop properly and the hip ball does not fit squarely within the socket, resulting in the rubbing of bone against bone, causing pain and lameness.

To manage or prevent hip dysplasia in Bichon Frises, consider these diet tips:

  • Glucosamine
  • Chondroitin
  • Omega-3 fatty
  • Calcium
  • Phosphorus
  • Maintain a healthy weight

Diabetes

Bichon Frises are at a higher risk of developing diabetes, a condition where the body cannot effectively regulate blood sugar levels.

To manage or prevent diabetes in Bichon Frises, consider these diet tips:

  • Low-glycemic food
  • Limit table scraps
  • Limit treats
  • Consistent feeding schedule
  • Weight management

Dental problems

Dental issues in Bichon Frise occur when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that attack the tooth’s enamel or protective outer layer. When plaque is not removed from the dog’s teeth, it can lead to gingivitis, infections, kidney, liver, heart, and joint damage. Gum disease is a common dental issue in this breed.

To manage or prevent dental problems in Bichon Frises, consider these diet tips:

  • Dental chews
  • Dry kibble
  • Avoid sugary foods
  • Use a dental kit
  • Natural enzymes (e.g., papain and bromelain)

Ear problems

Bichon Frises’ floppy ears can trap moisture and debris, leading to infections. Ear infections usually occur in the external ear canal. While ear infections cannot be managed or prevented through diet alone, a healthy diet that supports the immune system and reduces inflammation can help minimize the occurrence of infections.

To manage or prevent ear problems in Bichon Frises, consider these diet tips:

  • Vitamin D
  • Probiotics
  • Avoid food allergens

Corneal dystrophy

Corneal dystrophy is a condition that affects the cornea, causing it to become opaque or cloudy. In dogs, including Bichon Frises, it’s typically an inherited, non-inflammatory condition that can affect one or both eyes.

To manage or prevent corneal dystrophy in Bichon Frises, consider these diet tips:

  • Lutein
  • Zeaxanthin
  • Beta-carotene
  • Vitamin A, C & E
  • Omega-3 fatty acids

Bladder stones

This breed can be prone to bladder stones and urinary tract infections.

To manage or prevent bladder stones in Bichon Frises, consider these diet tips:

  • Low mineral diet
  • Avoid table scraps
  • Hydration

Liver shunt

Liver shunt, also known as portosystemic shunt (PSS), is a congenital condition where blood flow bypasses the liver, resulting in inadequate liver function and leading to a buildup of toxins in the dog’s body.

To manage or prevent liver disease in Bichon Frises, consider these diet tips:

  • Avoid high-protein diets
  • Avoid processed foods
  • Fresh diets

Heart disease

Bichons are prone to multiple types of heart disease, such as Patent Ductus Arteriosis, in which a small vessel that carries blood between two parts of the heart does not close shortly after birth as it should. 

To manage or prevent heart disease in Bichon Frises, consider these diet tips:

  • Low sodium
  • Taurine
  • Low fat
  • L-Carnitine
  • Magnesium
  • Lean meats

3. Consider Your Bichon Frise’s Activity Level

Provide a diet that suits your Bichon Frise’s activity level. This is crucial in maintaining overall health, energy levels, and quality of life.

Inactive

Inactive Bichon Frises may be older, have mobility issues, or have a naturally low energy level. They require a diet lower in fat and calories to avoid weight gain. Excess weight can lead to health issues such as diabetes, joint problems, and more.

Moderate Activity

These Bichon Frises enjoy daily walks, regular playtime and occasional vigorous activities. They need a balanced proportion of calories, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Recipes for “adult maintenance” are usually appropriate.

High Activity

These are working dogs (herding), sports dogs (competition), or those with high energy engaging in strenuous daily activities. They require higher calories and a diet higher in proteins, fats & carbs for muscle recovery & sustained energy.

4. Consider Your Bichon Frise’s Life Stage

Bichon Frises have specific nutritional needs at different stages of their life. Provide a diet that meets their life stage.

Puppy

Bichon Frise puppies require a diet higher in calories and nutrients and a high protein count of at least 22% to 32% to support their growth and development. They also need a balanced ratio of calcium and phosphorus in their diet for proper bone growth.

Senior

Senior Bichon Frises are less active and have slower metabolisms, requiring fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight. As digestion becomes less efficient with age, easily digestible protein sources and fiber become necessary. Their diet should contain supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin to manage or prevent joint problems common in seniors. Protein requirements are about 25-30%.

Adult

Adult Bichon Frises require a moderate-calorie and protein diet to maintain weight and prevent obesity. Adult dog food should typically have a protein content of around 18-25%, depending on their needs and activity level. Caloric and nutrient intake should match their activity level.

Pregnant

Pregnant Bichon Frises need more calories, particularly in the last few weeks of pregnancy, to support fetal growth and, later, milk production. Like puppies, lactating Bichon Frises need around 22-32% protein content. Protein supports fetal development and later, milk production for nursing.

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Best Dog Food For Bichon Frises

Best Overall Dog Food For Bichon Frises

4.9

★★★★★

JustFoodForDogs

Who It’s For: Ideal for those who want the most optimal nutrition and the potential health benefits of a fresh, human-grade diet.

VISIT WEBSITE

Recipes: Chicken, turkey, fish, beef, venison & lamb

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: All ages

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Human-grade

Why we picked and recommended it: JustFoodForDogs recipes win the spot for the best dog food for Bichon Frises. This brand uses human-grade ingredients to craft pre-portion recipes delivered directly to your doorstep. Feeding your dog JustFoodForDogs comes with numerous scientifically-supported health benefits of fresh dog food, including longer lifespans, better digestibility, higher energy levels, and more. Fresh recipes are also ideal for dogs with food allergies, sensitive stomachs, or other dietary concerns because they avoid cheap fillers, additives, and harmful chemicals. Unlike traditional kibble, JustFoodForDogs is gently cooked from scratch, ensuring all nutritional integrity is retained — this means that your Bichon Frise will receive the healthiest and most nutritious meal with every serving.

What sets it apart from competitors: JustFoodForDogs stands out from other dog food brands by taking a personalized approach to nutrition. Many dog food brands offer one-size-fits-all recipes, but JustFoodForDogs takes the time to create a custom formula for each dog, considering factors like age, health, weight, and activity level to ensure your dog gets the perfect balance of nutrients for their unique needs.

Key Features

  • Caters to health-specific. Recipes are formulated to address your dog’s health concerns, such as food allergies, tear stains, bad breath, joint issues and more.
  • Vet-designed. Formulated by board-certified veterinary nutritionists that comply with AAFCO standards.
  • Excellent sourcing. Ingredients are sourced from reputable food suppliers, local farms, and other human food purveyors that meet USDA standards.

Pros

  • The level of customization is unmatched
  • Packaged as daily portions for easy serving
  • Never use feed-grade ingredients
  • Cooked in human-grade kitchens

Cons

  • It’s on the expensive side

Best Dry Dog Food For Bichon Frises

4.8

★★★★★

Jinx

Who It’s For: For those who want to provide the benefit of a fresh dog diet with the convenience of dry kibble.

VISIT WEBSITE

Recipes: Beef, salmon & chicken

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: Adult

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Human-grade

Why we picked and recommended it: Jinx dog formula is our top pick for the best dry dog food for Bichon Frises. Unlike traditional dry dog food, Unkibble is less processed and has half the cost of fresh dog food. Think of Unkibble as freshly homemade dog food with the convince of kibble without the nasty preservatives, additives, and cheap fillers. It’s perfect for Bichon Frises because it’s been formulated to surpass the specific nutritional requirements of most dry dog foods.

What sets it apart from competitors: UnKibble recipes are gently dried using our unique process, which gently dries out whole foods to preserve nutrients and flavor and maximize nutritional integrity. Some recipes use organ meats, one of the most nutrient-dense foods you can give your dog. In fact, entrails contain as many (or more) vitamins, minerals, and other valuable nutrients as lean muscle meat.

Key Features

  • Limited ingredients. Use radically simple ingredients ideal for a picky eater or dog with food allergies.
  • Superherbs. Boosted with super herbs for join, immunity, digestive support and more.

Pros

  • Exceeds industry standards
  • Cheaper than fresh dog food
  • Crunchy texture
  • GMO and hormone-free
  • Custom plans and scoops

Cons

  • It’s a bit more expensive than traditional kibble. NUTRO Ultra dry dog food is another great alternative if you want a more traditional dry dog food that’s less expensive.

Best Bichon Frises Puppy Food

4.7

★★★★★

Open Farm

Who It’s For: Made specifically for Bichon Frise puppies. It has all the nutrients for proper puppy development.

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Recipes: Blend of chicken, pork & salmon

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: Puppies

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Human-grade

Why we picked and recommended it: The Gently Cooked Open Farm puppy recipe is the best dog food for Bichon Frises. This puppy-specific formula provides the necessary nutrients for the optimal growth and development of Bichon Frise puppies, including prebiotic fiber like pumpkin and chicory root, supports healthy digestion and calcium iodate as a source of energy production, and also promotes muscular and cognitive development in puppies.

What sets it apart from competitors: This formula is designed specifically for Bichon Frise puppies and has a purposeful blend of three proteins to help prevent allergies. It also has added collagen for healthy joint development.

Key Features

  • Human-grade meats. High-quality meats are raised without antibiotics or added hormones.
  • Superfoods. Boosted with chia seeds, kale, flaxseed and other wholesome ingredients.

Pros

  • Made with non-GMO fruits and veggies
  • No potatoes, rendered poultry or meals
  • Serve as a topper or complete meal

Cons

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Cheapest Dog Food For Bichon Frises

4.8

★★★★★

Royal Canin

Who It’s For: Great if you are looking for the most affordable dog food for Bichon Frises.

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Recipes: Chicken

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: Adult

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Natural

Why we picked and recommended it: Royal Canin Bichon Frise has a slightly lower price than other brands. It’s formulated to provide your Bichon Frise with sustained healthy energy from high-quality animal-based proteins. This dog food helps build strong, lean muscles and maintain optimal body conditions. It is made with wholesome ingredients that are easily digestible and provide a balanced diet for adult dogs.

What sets it apart from competitors: Designed to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Bichon Frises 10 months and older. The kibble is designed with a specific shape, size, and texture for the Bichon Frises’ facial and jaw structures and biting patterns to aid with chewing and digestion.

Key Features

  • Omega 3. Packed with vitamin A, as well as EPA and DHA (omega-3 fatty acids) from fish oil, to provide skin support and nourish healthy skin and a silky coat.
  • Cardiac support. Promotes heart health with taurine and L-carnitine for healthy cardiac function.
  • Bone and joint health. It also contains Glucosamine and chondroitin for strong bones and joint development. 

Pros

  • Formulated for small breed, with the specific nutrients to help them thrive

Cons

  • It may not be suitable for dogs with severe food allergies or sensitivities, as it is not specifically designed for these conditions
  • The inclusion of brewer rice and chicken meal and fat may be higher in carbohydrates than some dogs need, which could be a concern for overweight or diabetic dogs

Best Food For Senior Bichon Frises

4.6

★★★★★

Open Farm

Who It’s For: Great for those senior Bichon Frises who need the appropriate nutrients to support them through their older years.

VISIT OPEN FARM
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Recipes: Turkey & chicken

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: Senior

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Fresh

Why we picked and recommended it: We chose Open Farm Senior dog food as the best senior dog food for Bichon Frises because of its high protein and fat content, designed to meet the needs of active senior dog breeds like Bichon Frises. The formula supports lean muscle mass and optimal fat metabolism, essential for the vitality of aging dogs.

What sets it apart from competitors: Open Farm protein sources come from humanly sourced turkeys and chickens raised in a cage-free environment with gentle handling, space and a premium diet without antibiotics or growth hormones. In general, humanly-raised meats are thought to be nutritionally superior to caged and conventionally produced meats.

Key Features

  • Bones and joint support. It is enhanced with glucosamine and chondroitin to aid with cartilage wear and tear as your pet ages.
  • Human-grade meats. No rendered poultry or meat meals.

Pros

  • 85% quality animal ingredients.
  • Great feedback from senior dog parent
  • Certified humane for animal welfare.

Cons

  • A bit expensive.

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Raw Food For Bichon Frises

4.8

★★★★★

Instinct

Who It’s For: Good for those seeking to provide a more biologically appropriate, natural diet for dogs that offers several health benefits.

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Recipes: Chicken, lamb & beef

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: All ages

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Raw

Why we picked and recommended it: As more dog parents opt to raw feed their dogs, it’s essential to understand the ins and outs of a raw diet for dogs. If you are in the market for raw dog food for Bichon Frises, Instinct Frozen Raw Bites Real Beef Recipe formula is one of our top picks for the best raw dog food delivery brands. This formula is protein-packed with 85% meat and organs and 15% wholesome non-GMO fruits, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals to give your Bichon Frise a complete BARF diet. It’s minimally processed, never cooked, pure, natural nutrition to keep your best friend strong. 

What sets it apart from competitors: Raw dog food may benefit your dog with a shinier coat and skin, cleaner teeth, more energy, smaller stools and more. Instinct Raw states that raw dog nutrition can promote strong, lean muscles and energize your pup.

Pros

  • Helps with allergies and weight management
  • Ingredients are frozen to maintain the highest nutritional profile
  • Cold-pressure processing to keep the nutrients and taste intact

Cons

  • Needs to be kept frozen until it’s your pet’s mealtime
  • Not as convenient as feeding dry dog food. Open Farm freeze-dried raw dog food is an excellent alternative for a more convenient way to feed raw
  • It’s slightly more expensive than traditional kibble, but you can buy raw food budget

Best Food For Bichon Frises With Sensitive Stomachs

4.7

★★★★★

Hill’s

Who It’s For: If you are looking for the best food for Bichon Frises with sensitive stomachs.

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Recipes: Chicken & Barley

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: Adult

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Natural

Why we picked and recommended it: Hill’s Science Diet For Sensitive Stomach & Skin is formulated to protect Bichon Frises with sensitive tummies and skin. It’s made with easily digestible ingredients, including barley, beet pulp, and brown rice and contains no soy, wheat, or artificial that can cause upsets or skin flare-ups on your Bichon Frise. 

What sets it apart from competitors: Specialized formula fortified with prebiotics fiber for healthy digestion, sensitive stomachs and immune health. Prebiotic fiber nourishes healthy intestinal bacteria.

Key Features

  • Omega-6. Excellent source of omega-6 fatty acids to nourish your dog’s skin and help maintain a healthy, shiny coat. 
  • Highly digestible. The food is gentle on the stomach.

Pros

  • Supports a balanced gut microbiome in your grown dog
  • No artificially colored, flavored, or preserved

Cons

  • Not recommended for puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs
  • 15% may still be sensitive to this diet. Another option is going fresh with a premium option like JustFoodForDogs Balanced Remedy. Its plain composition of a single protein source, single starch source, and low-fat levels make it perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Best Food For Bichon Frises With Allergies

4.7

★★★★★

Royal Canin

Who It’s For: Excellent for Bichon Frise suffering from skin allergies, food allergies, or food intolerance.

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Recipes: Natural

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: All ages

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Hypoallergenic

Why we picked and recommended it: Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein is the best hypoallergenic dog formula you feed an allergic Bichon Frise. This vet-exclusive prescription formula helps dogs with itching, hair loss, skin allergies, and digestive upsets. It’s also highly digestible and supports gastrointestinal and dermatological health.

What sets it apart from competitors: This formula uses hydrolyzed soy protein (non-animal protein). Hydrolyzed protein is made by a process known as hybridization, which breaks down proteins to a size less likely to be recognized by the immune system, effectively stopping allergic reactions.

Key Features

  • Limited ingredients. Its limited ingredients also make it great against allergies. They use one single source of carbohydrates.
  • Supports GI health. Contains a special blend of fibers and prebiotics.

Pros

  • Specially designed for canines with food intolerances or allergies
  • Helps to reduce skin and GI reactions caused by proteins
  • Support healthy skin and help reduce inflammation

Cons

  • A bit expensive
  • Requires vet authorization. While we recommend Royal Canine Veterinary for the best results, unfortunately, it requires a prescription. If you can’t wait to visit your vet or don’t have the budget to afford it, ACANA Lamb & Pumpkin Limited Ingredient Diet can also help with allergies and does not require a prescription.

Best Grain-Free Food For Bichon Frises

4.7

★★★★★

Open Farm

Who It’s For: Ideal for Bichon Frises with grain allergies or sensitivities.

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Recipes: Chicken & turkey

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: All ages

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Human-grade

Why we picked and recommended it: Open Farm grain-free small breed dry dog food is your best grain-free kibble for Bichon Frises. We picked it because they skip the grain, corn, soy, and wheat in favor of science-backed superfoods like non-GMO pumpkin, carrot, leafy greens, and coconut oil for a balanced and complete diet that provide antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support Bichon Frise nutritional needs.

What sets it apart from competitors: It’s made responsibly from ethically sourced, humanely raised meats and sustainable ingredients free from antibiotics, hormones, and artificial preservatives, making it one of the most sustainable dog food brands.

Key Features

  • Small breed-specific. Formulated for higher metabolic rates in smaller breeds
  • 100% traceable ingredients. Instantly trace the origin of every ingredient in your bag via their website.
  • Premium ingredients. Locally sourced non-GMO fruits and veggies.

Pros

  • Functional ingredients (i.e., green-lipped mussel)
  • Meats from audited higher welfare farms
  • Smaller-sized kibble than traditional recipes
  • Local carbon footprint per bag

Cons

  • It can be more expensive than other brands on the market

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Best Wet Dog Food For Bichon Frises

4.5

★★★★★

JustFoodForDogs

Who It’s For: A good choice for those looking for the best wet food for Bichon Frises.

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Recipes: Chicken, turkey, beef, lamb & more

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: All ages

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Human-grade

Why we picked and recommended it: JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh is our favorite wet food for Bichon Frises. This food is a convenient and healthy option for dog owners who want to feed their dogs soft-textured meals and keep them hydrated, especially those in warmer climates. Unlike traditional canned wet dog food, Bichon Frise uses only ingredients fit for human consumption to ensure the highest quality nutrition. Additionally, they use a unique cooking process to make Pantry Fresh preserve the nutritional value and taste of the ingredients, making it a nutritious and tasty option for dogs.

What sets it apart from competitors: Aside from traditional flavors, they have specialized wet food for targeting health-specific problems, including joint, skin, sensitive stomach, renal, appetite loss, metabolism and liver function.

Key Features

  • Ready-to-serve nutrition. A team of veterinarians and canine specialists formulate every recipe.
  • Gently cooked. This process maximizes the nutritional value and promotes a healthy immune system.
  • Travel friendly. 2-year shelf life and transportable Tetra Pak® packaging make it easy to store and travel with.

Pros

  • USDA-certified meats
  • Organ meats
  • A convenient way for busy people to feed their dogs a fresh diet
  • A variety pack for picky eaters
  • Provides the benefits of fresh dog food

Cons

  • More expensive than traditional wet dog food

Other Best Dog Foods For Bichon Frises

  • Best dehydrated dog food for Bichon Frises. The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Gourmet is our favorite dehydrated food. Dehydrated food is often easier for Bichon Frises to digest. Additionally, if your dog has dental problems or is missing teeth, dehydrated dog food can be easier for them to eat than traditional kibble.
  • Best food topper for Bichon Frises. Portland Pet Food Company Human offers a fantastic variety of tasty fresh dog food flavors you can add as a topper to your dog’s kibble meals.
  • Best health-specific custom diet food for Bichon Frises. JustFoodForDogs makes creating a custom recipe for your fur baby easy. They work with your veterinarian to create a custom recipe if your Bichon Frise has a medical need for a restricted diet.
  • Best Bichon Frise dog food to lose weight. Natural Balance Fat Dogs Low is excellent if your Bichon Frise needs to lose weight.
  • Best Bichon Frise dog food to gain weight. With 600 calories per cup, Miracle Vet High-Calorie Weight Gain Dog Food is ideal for helping your Bichon Frise gain lean muscle mass.

Additional Information
Jump to: The Research | Full Reviews 

How to Switch Bichon Frise Dog Food

Veterinarians recommend gradually changing your Bichon Frise’s diet to a new formula.

  • Week 1: 25% new food and 75% old food
  • Week 2: 50% new food and 50% old food
  • Week 3: 25% new food and 75% old food
  • Week 4: 100% new food

Increase your Bichon Frise’s new food portion weekly if they adjust well to each transition phase. Watch their reaction to the new diet carefully; discontinue the new food immediately if any negative responses are observed. Never change your dog’s food abruptly. It could cause an upset stomach, diarrhea, or vomiting.

Health-Based Food Changes In Bichon Frises

If your Bichon Frise is struggling with the following health conditions, adopting a new diet or adding supplements can be beneficial to get these dog-related issues under control.

ConditionDietary Needs & Adjustments
Coat Color ChangesIncrease amino acids which can be found in protein (>75 grams per 1000 calories)
Concurrent GI SignsAvoid foods with tryptamine and histamine, such as dairy, fermented vegetables, and meats (yes, this includes bacon); try a simple ingredient food trial.
Chronic Itching and DermatitisFortify the diet with Vitamin E, B Vitamins, Zinc, omega-6, and the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil; add a dog probiotic; try a simple ingredient food trial.
Dull Coat and ScalingAdjust EPA and DHA levels in the diet (added fish oil being the most common way); try food with added zinc.
Dandruff and CrustinessAdd Zinc and Vitamin A levels

Frequently Asked Questions

The best foods for Bichons Frises include JustFoodForDogs, Open Farm Small Breed, and Jinx. However, it is crucial to select a food that is ideally suited for your specific pet, so make sure to discuss your choice with your vet and pick one that addresses your dog’s unique needs.  

Bichon Frises can develop food allergies or sensitivities to various ingredients, but there’s no definitive list of allergens specific to the breed. Common allergens for dogs generally include wheat, corn, soy, dairy, beef, and chicken. These ingredients may trigger allergic reactions or digestive issues in some dogs. When selecting a suitable diet for your Bichon Frise, it’s essential to consider their nutritional needs and any specific dietary sensitivities.

Royal Canin offers breed-specific formulas tailored to Bichon Frises, which aim to support the breed’s unique requirements. Whether Royal Canin is appropriate for your Bichon Frise depends on their health status, nutritional requirements, and any specific dietary considerations.

The worst food for Bichon Frises is highly processed and contains fillers, by-products, or artificial additives. It’s made with meat meals or meat by-products. Pugs should avoid brands that use these ingredients to formulate their recipes.

What Is The Best Dog Food For Bichon Frises? — Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the best dog food for Bichon Frises ensures optimal health, energy levels, and overall quality of life. The ideal diet for a Bichon Frise should be balanced, nutritious, and tailored to their needs, considering their age, weight, activity level, and health concerns. High-quality proteins should be at the top of the ingredient list, followed by wholesome grains or vegetables, healthy fats, and beneficial supplements like probiotics, omega fatty acids, and vitamins. Special care should be taken for Bichon with food allergies or sensitivities, opting for hypoallergenic or grain-free diets when necessary.

However, remember that every Bichon Frise is an individual, and what works well for one may not work for another. Regular vet check-ups are indispensable in adjusting your pet’s diet and addressing health concerns early. Pairing a well-suited diet with regular exercise and love will undoubtedly contribute to your Bichon Frise’s happy and healthy life.

For those who want more options, venturing into cooking Bichon Frise homemade food can offer great benefits. Alternatives like vegan dog food are also great for environmentally conscious pet parents. Remember to always talk to your veterinarian before switching your dog’s diet.

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Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

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