Adolescent Growth Diet for Bichon Frises

Clinical context

Why this stage is different for Bichon Frises

Adolescence is when Bichon Frise owners either lock in a lean athlete or a lifelong weight problem. Growth plates close near 10-12 months. Small breeds need calorie-dense growth food without free-feeding that pads the ribcage. Keep protein high enough for muscle, calories low enough that the waist stays. This is also when allergies and patellar luxation first becomes visible on exam - diet notes belong next to orthopedic and cardiac screening.

Interactive watch list

Adolescent feeding checklist

• Waist visible; abdominal tuck presentwatch
• Written plan for puppy → adult food around 10-12 monthsroutine
• No repetitive jumping from heights during the growth windowwatch
• Training treats still inside 10% of caloriesroutine
• Screening scheduled for allergies and patellar luxationurgent

Dated protocol

Growth-to-adult feeding timeline

1. 5-7 mo

   Recalculate portions

   Adolescent hunger is not a portion size. Weigh every 2 weeks.

2. 8-10 mo

   Activity vs calories

   A bored Bichon Frise looks “starving.” Increase scent work, not kibble.

3. 10-12 months

   Adult maintenance

   Transition food over 7-10 days. Log any itch or stool change.

4. Adult

   Lock the recipe

   Photograph the successful adult formula. Future allergy trials need a known baseline.

Digital vault

Records for the growth window

1. Weight + BCS chart (not weight alone).
2. Orthopedic notes if limp appears after play.
3. Food bag lots during the transition.
4. Reminders for allergies and patellar luxation screening.

Bowl notes

Adolescent diet rules