i whant to purchase a bichon frise but i ve seen that it may have ephilepsy. how many chances are there for a pure breed puppy to have it and if you have a bichon frise what health problems have you faced with your puppy excep the ones described on puppy sites for this bread
Glad to see you've researched the breed. All purebred dogs have health problems of some sort, some serious and some just a nuisance. You need to know from a Bichon breeder, what they have done to keep epilepsy out of their line, and you need to see test results from the dam and the sire for any health problems inherent in the Bichon breed.
It is very common in this breed because they've become popular so there are many backyard breeders and puppymills trying to make money, even if that means breeding sick dogs. Not technically a health problem, but some Bichons I know have had bad separation anxiety. You should go to a AKC dog show and talk to some of the breeders and handlers about their dogs. You have to be really careful when picking your breeder, and might have to wait a while before getting your puppy.
If you have your heart set on a purebred contact the breed association and ask for a referral to a reputable breeder. A well bred dog has a very low risk of health issues and the breeder should have a health gaurantee allowing you to return the dog if something goes wrong. But, a dog from a good breeder will be very expensive. If you can't afford it your other option is to adopt an older dog from a shelter. That way you will know upfront if it has any health issues.
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