What are the common diseases of Bichon Frise?

When we look at the fluffy and cute appearance of Bichon Frises, which is as soft as a marshmallow, and feel their intimacy as they rub their wet noses against our palms, it's hard not to be healed by this warmth. However, these seemingly carefree furry friends also have their own health problems. Exploring the most common diseases of Bichon Frises is not only a required course for safeguarding their health but also the most affectionate response from every owner to this companionship.

The tear stain problem is almost the "number one headache" that plagues Bichon Frise owners. Bichon Frises have big, round eyes, which are a symbol of their cuteness, but they also become a breeding ground for tear stains. From a physiological structure perspective, Bichon Frises have a lot of long hair around their eyes, which can easily stimulate the lacrimal glands to secrete tears. The porphyrin contained in the tears will form brownish-red tear stains after being oxidized in contact with the air. If the tear ducts are narrow or blocked, the tears cannot flow into the nasal cavity and be discharged normally. Instead, they can only overflow from the eye sockets, leaving obvious marks on the hair under the eyes. Factors such as a too salty diet, eye infections, and ingrown eyelashes will further exacerbate the tear stain problem. Seeing the originally clean white fur stained brown by the tear stains, the owners feel both distressed and anxious. They painstakingly wipe the stains every day and try various tear stain removal products, all in the hope of restoring their beloved dogs' innocent and cute looks.

Skin diseases are also a common problem for Bichon Frises. Bichon Frises have a thick double coat. The outer coat is curly and fluffy, and the inner down is soft and fine. This coat is not only their beautiful garment but also provides a hiding place for bacteria, fungi, and parasites. A humid environment, overly frequent bathing that disrupts the skin's oil balance, and exposure to allergens can all trigger skin diseases. When Bichon Frises scratch and bite their bodies frequently and show symptoms such as hair loss, red patches, and increased dandruff, the owners are often extremely worried. The dogs are so itchy that they can't sit still, and the owners feel uncomfortable seeing them like this. Taking them to the hospital for examination, applying ointments, and giving medicated baths, every step is filled with love and pity for them.

Dental diseases are also prevalent among Bichon Frises. Bichon Frises have a special oral structure with closely arranged teeth, which makes it easy for food residues to remain. In addition, they like to chew on soft toys and snacks and lack sufficient teeth-grinding processes. Over time, dental plaque and tartar accumulate continuously, leading to diseases such as periodontitis and gingivitis. When the owners notice that their Bichon Frises have a severe bad breath, suddenly stop eating, dare not chew hard, or have swollen and red gums and loose teeth, they are shocked to realize that the oral problems have already affected their quality of life. Seeing the cheerful appearance of their dogs enjoying food disappear, the owners feel full of guilt. They start to learn the correct way to brush their dogs' teeth, buy professional dental care products, and try their best to help them regain healthy mouths.

Patellar dislocation is also relatively common in Bichon Frises, which is related to their small dog size and genetic factors. The patella of Bichon Frises, that is, the kneecap, is normally located in the trochlear groove of the femur and plays a role in stabilizing the knee joint. However, due to congenital dysplasia, the patella may deviate from its normal position and cause dislocation. In the early stages of the disease, Bichon Frises may occasionally limp on their hind legs, as if they are suddenly "tiptoeing" while walking, and then return to normal after walking a few steps. As the condition progresses, the frequency of the limp increases, and in severe cases, they may not be able to walk normally. The owners feel as if their hearts are being tugged when they see their beloved dogs limping. They take them around to seek medical treatment, trying conservative treatment or surgery, just hoping that they can run freely again.

In addition, Bichon Frises are also prone to tracheal collapse. Their tracheal cartilage is relatively fragile. As they age or are under long-term pressure from the neck leash, the tracheal cartilage will gradually soften and collapse, resulting in difficulty breathing. When the disease breaks out, Bichon Frises will have frequent dry coughs, and the coughing sound is similar to a goose's honk. The symptoms will be aggravated during strenuous exercise, excitement, or hot weather. Seeing their dogs struggling to breathe and coughing painfully, the owners wish they could bear the torture for them. They try every means to adjust their living habits, replace the neck leash with a harness to avoid neck pressure, and create a comfortable living environment for them.

These common diseases are like shadows, constantly threatening the health of Bichon Frises. But every owner is demonstrating love and responsibility through their actions, from meticulous daily care to accompanying and treating them without leaving their side when diseases occur. Understanding these diseases is not only for better prevention and response but also to ensure that these soft and cute furry friends, as soft as marshmallows, can bloom with bright smiles for a long time under the care of their owners and continue to write the warm and beautiful story of their companionship.