Best Dog Food for Bichon Frise in NZ - Petdirect
Save up to 25% with Autodeliver*
Learn more
My store:
Select store
Menu
  1. Home
  2. Articles
  3. Best Dog Food for Bichon Frise in NZ
Best Dog Food for Bichon Frise in NZ

Best Dog Food for Bichon Frise in NZ

If you’re lucky enough to share your life with a Bichon Frise, you’ll know they’re as sweet as they are fluffy. These playful charmers are known for their affectionate nature, signature cloud-like coat and sensitive tummies. At Petdirect, we get pet – and we know that choosing the best dog food for Bichon Frise in NZ means prioritising gentle ingredients, skin-supportive nutrients, and a recipe that gives them energy without upsetting their digestion.

Let’s explore what makes a food great for your Bichon Frise, and some of our top nutrition picks to keep their tails wagging.

Key Nutritional Needs Of A Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise may be small in size, but they have specific dietary needs that support their overall wellbeing:

  • Gentle on sensitive tummies: Easily digestible proteins and quality grains or grain-free options help avoid upset stomachs and food sensitivities.
  • Skin and coat support: Omega fatty acids like Omega 3 & 6 are essential for maintaining their iconic soft, curly coat and preventing itchy skin.
  • Weight control: With their compact frame, it’s important to manage calories to prevent unhealthy weight gain, especially in less active dogs.
  • Dental health: Bichons can be prone to dental issues, so foods that support oral health or pairing with dog dental care is essential.

Top Food Picks For Bichon Frise Pups In NZ

We’ve sniffed out some of the best food options tailored to the Bichon Frise’s needs, available right here in New Zealand:

Royal Canin Bichon Frise Food

Specifically crafted with the breed in mind, this formula includes adapted kibble for small jaws, nutrients to support healthy skin, and ingredients that promote urinary tract health – something Bichons can be prone to. A top choice for targeted nutrition.

Hill’s Science Diet Small Breed

This science-backed range is great for promoting healthy digestion and skin. The small kibble size is ideal for little mouths, and it’s rich in antioxidants to support immunity. Their Sensitive Stomach & Skin formula in particular can be helpful for sensitive Bichons.

ACANA Singles

Ideal for dogs with food sensitivities, this limited-ingredient diet features a single source of animal protein and high levels of omega fatty acids. Great for discerning Bichons who need gentle food that still packs a nutritional punch.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Food

Locally made in Aotearoa and proudly featuring free-range meats and green-lipped mussels, this food’s natural, whole-prey formula boosts skin, joint, and digestive health. It’s also low on carbs, helping support a healthy weight and glossy coat.

K9 Natural

Another NZ made favourite, K9 Natural’s freeze-dried raw recipes are packed with nutrition, while being gentle on Bichon bellies. The inclusion of natural oils and proteins helps their coat look its best.

Wet Food Vs. Dry Food – What's Best?

Both wet and dry food have their benefits, especially for smaller breeds like the Bichon Frise:

  • Dry food: Convenient, dental-friendly, and often calorie-controlled.
  • Wet food: Hydrating, soft for older or fussy dogs, and often more aromatic to entice picky eaters.

Many Bichon parents opt for a mix of both, combining dry kibble with nutritious toppers or pouches from our pet food toppers collection for enhanced flavour and moisture.

Tips For Switching Your Bichon’s Food

Due to their sensitive digestion, it’s important to change a Bichon Frise’s diet gradually. Here’s how to wag through the transition smoothly:

  • Start by mixing 25% new food with 75% of the previous food.
  • Gradually increase the new food ratio over 7–10 days.
  • Watch for any signs of tummy upset like soft stools or discomfort, and adjust accordingly.

During the changeover, adding dog digestive support supplements can help ease the transition and promote gut health.

Don’t Forget The Treats (In Moderation!)

Bichons are known to have quite the personality and are usually food-motivated – perfect for training with healthy rewards. Choose gentle dog treats that are free from artificial additives and low in fat to keep their waistline and digestion in check.

Health Support Beyond The Bowl

Alongside a high-quality diet, Bichons often benefit from extra support with their coat, joints and digestion. Explore our range of skin and coat health supplements and wellbeing boosters to help your fluffball look and feel their absolute best.

Feed Your Fluffy Companion Right

Your Bichon Frise is unique – inside and out – so feeding them right is one of the biggest ways you can support their health and happiness. Whether it’s breed-specific food, a premium New Zealand recipe or a digestive-friendly formula, the best choice is the one that keeps their tail wagging and their coat gleaming.

Explore our full range of dog food and unlock rewards with our Pet Perks loyalty programme or earn Airpoints on your purchase. Because at Petdirect, we get pet – and that means helping you feed your best mate the best way possible.