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The Bichon Frise is a breed prone to skin allergies, and allergies are the #1 problem with this breed. The allergies can be caused by several factors, such as; food, environment, and household chemicals. The most common allergy is known as atopy; a skin condition related to inhalants. The Bichon has very sensitive skin and mild shampoos should be used to prevent allergies and excessive itching. Regular diet changes should be avoided, as that can cause skin irritation as well. Plus, more often then not, Bichons allergies are seasonal, peaking in Spring and Fall.

A veterinarian can sometimes pinpoint exact causes of allergies by doing simple blood tests. A shot can be administered to provide relief from the itching and scratching, but beware, repeated "quick-fix" solutions, such as prednisone shots; can result in an illness known as Cushing Syndrome in the future. Do consult veterinarian about all of the options available, and state any concerns you might have before a treatment is decided.

Safer alternatives to treat allergy should be used for milder attacks. Antihistamines are a type of drug that counters formation of histamine in the body. Histamine occurs in response to allergens. It has been noted that fatty acids omega 6 and omega 3 are beneficial to boost immune response. Any boost to the immune system has a positive effect overall so this is one supplement that would be useful for all Bichons. Vitamins are not as useful and in a breed that is susceptible to calcium stone formation; extra vitamin C could have an adverse effect.

A breeder with dogs known to suffer allergy should be extremely careful in using those dogs in their breeding program, since autoimmunity is an ongoing issue in Bichon Frises, given their tendency to show signs of allergies. Any Bichon that has developed serious allergies or has produced offspring with severe allergies should be removed from the breeding program. At the very least, do NOT repeat that particular breeding which has shown evidence of a compromised immune system.

Some information gathered at the following website;

(http://www.bichonhealth.org/H ealthInfo/Allergies.asp)

The above website also has a great deal of information about the Bichon Frise in general.

Learn more about this author, Gretchen Parent.
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