A Biton is a hybrid designer dog that was developed in the US. It is a mix of a Bichon Frise and a Coton de Tulear, specifically bred to be a family pet. This adorable dog inherits its parents’ small size and has a beautiful fluffy or long and curly coat. Not only does the Biton get along well with children and other animals, but it also has a tendency to bark when it senses potential danger from afar. However, it is important to note that this affectionate creature can experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods of time. To maintain its charming appearance, regular brushing and occasional baths are recommended, and daily walks are essential to keep this lively dog entertained and out of trouble.
Below, we look at Biton dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Biton, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and much more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Bitons!
| Dog Breed | Biton |
| Size | Small |
| Weight | 8-18 lbs (average) |
| Height | 9-12″ (average) |
| Location | United States |
| Ancestry | Bichon Frise, Coton de Tulear |
| Date of Origin | Unknown |
| Group | Companion |
| Life Expectancy | 14-16 years |
| Price | $700 – $1000 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The Biton is a hybrid dog that was created in the United States by crossing the Bichon Frise with a Coton de Tulear. While not much is known about the origin of this hybrid, there is a lot of information about the parent breeds. Interestingly, the Bichon Frise and the Coton de Tulear are actually related. They both descended from the Barbet, a dog breed that was found in Europe and the Mediterranean. The Barbet, also known as the barbichon, was brought to the island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands by Spanish or Portuguese sailors. In the 14th century, Italian or French sailors brought the breed to Europe, and it eventually became the Bichon Frise.
In Europe, the Bichon Frise was popular among royal houses in Spain, France, and England until the late 1800s. After that, they started appearing as circus performers and guide dogs for the blind. Breeders in France worked to preserve the Bichon Frise after World War I, and it was officially recognized with a standard in 1933. The breed was initially called Bichon or Tenerife, but later the French name, which meant ‘Bichon with the curly coat,’ was anglicized into Bichon Frise. The breed was brought to the United States in 1956 and recognized by the AKC in 1971.
The barbichon breed was also taken to the islands of Mauritius and Reunion in the Indian Ocean by sailors in the 16th and 17th centuries. By this time, the breed had a long, cottony coat and was known as the Coton de Reunion. It was highly valued by sailors, merchants, officials, and pirates aboard their ships. The dog was later brought to the trading port of Tulear in Madagascar, where it became the royal dog of the country and was reserved only for royalty. Over time, it interbred with the Morondava hunting dog. In the 1970s, the breed was brought to France and the United States and was named Coton de Tulear, meaning ‘cotton dog from Tulear’. The AKC officially recognized the Coton as a distinct breed in 2014.
🐕 Biton Appearance
The Biton is a little dog that has many traits of its parent breeds, the Coton de Tulear and Bichon Frise. This dog has round, black eyes set in a round skull and is strong and proportionate. It conveys alertness, joy, and curiosity. A black nose is the end of a short snout. On either side of the head, the ears drop down. The characteristic that most clearly shows its ancestry is the coat. The Coton de Tulear’s hair is long, silky, and curled, whereas the Bichon Frise’s is fluffy and dense. White can be a single color or it can have varied shades of apricot, cream, or gray.
| 👀 Eye Color | Varies |
| 🐽 Nose Color | N/A |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Ranges |
⚡ Fun Fact: Biton dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Biton
We are reviewing and looking at the data related to the temperament, behavior, and traits of this dog breed. Please stay tuned for our update available shortly.
🤝 Are Bitons Friendly or Aggressive?
Biton dogs are known for their friendly and sociable nature. They easily get along with strangers, making them a great choice for individuals who enjoy meeting new people. Additionally, Biton dogs are kid-friendly, making them suitable for families with children. They are also cat-friendly and dog-friendly, making them a good option for those who want to have multiple pets or participate in dog meetups. Furthermore, Bitons are often recommended for elderly individuals, as their calm and gentle demeanor can provide comfort and companionship.
This breed is known for being:
- Playful
- Sensitive
- Intelligent
- Affectionate
- Lively
- Gentle
- Trainable
- Cheerful
- Vocal
🐩 Biton Care & Maintenance
The Biton is a hypoallergenic dog with a low shedding reputation. To avoid mats and tangles, the thick or long coat should be combed every day. When necessary, a brief bath can maintain the Biton’s coat looking beautiful and smelling pleasant. However, avoid bathing the Biton too frequently since this might lead to dry skin. Due to the parent breed, the Bichon Frise, being known to be susceptible to gum infections, take special care with your dental hygiene. Ear infections are another potential problem, so keep them hair-free and clean.
Biton dogs are known for being low shedders, meaning they don’t lose a significant amount of hair. This is a natural part of their hair growth cycle. The amount and frequency of hair loss can vary depending on the dog’s overall health and the specific breed they belong to. In terms of bathing, it is generally recommended to give Biton dogs a bath every 3-4 weeks to maintain their cleanliness and hygiene.
🍖 Food: We recommend few cups daily, costing you about $0.49 – $1.49 daily, or around $30.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Biton dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly few miles per week, which equates to about 15 – 35 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Biton dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
❤️🩹 Biton Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Biton Dog Breed can be:
- Patellar Luxation
- Liver Disease
- Hip Dysplasia
- Diabetes
- Hypothyroidism
- Heart Disease
- Pancreatitis
- Arthritis
- Spinal Disease
While minor concerns include:
- Deafness
- Skin Allergies
- Urinary Stones
- Eye Conditions
🤧 Important: Is Biton hypoallergenic? Yes.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Biton.
⚡ Biton Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Biton a great choice for families with young children?
The Biton is a great choice for families with young children because it is known to be good with children. It is a friendly and gentle breed that can get along well with kids, making it a suitable companion for families.
Is the Biton breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
Yes, the Biton breed is considered a suitable breed for apartment living. It retains a small size, making it adaptable to living in smaller spaces like apartments. However, regular exercise and walks are still important for the Biton’s overall well-being.
How much exercise does a Biton require compared to other breeds?
Compared to other breeds, the Biton requires a moderate amount of exercise. Daily walks are necessary to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. However, they do not have excessive exercise needs like some high-energy breeds.
Is the Biton breed known for being good with other pets?
Yes, the Biton breed is known for being good with other pets. They are generally friendly and can get along well with other animals, making them a suitable choice for households with multiple pets.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Biton?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Biton include the Bichon Frise and the Coton de Tulear, which are the parent breeds of the Biton. These breeds also have similar grooming needs and are known to be affectionate and good with families.
What are the common health issues that Bitons are prone to?
Bitons, like their parent breeds, are generally healthy dogs. However, they may be prone to certain health issues such as allergies, dental problems, and eye conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper care can help prevent or manage these health issues.
Are Bitons known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Bitons are known to be moderately easy to train. They are intelligent and eager to please, which can make the training process smoother. However, consistent and positive reinforcement methods are important for their training success.
Are Bitons more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Bitons may be more prone to separation anxiety compared to some other breeds. They are very attached to their family and can become distressed when left alone for long periods. Proper socialization and gradual training can help manage their separation anxiety.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Biton that are suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, there are other dog breeds similar to the Biton that are suitable for people with allergies. The Bichon Frise and the Coton de Tulear, which are the parent breeds of the Biton, are hypoallergenic breeds known for causing fewer allergies in sensitive individuals.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Biton are best for individuals or families with limited space?
Smaller sizes of dogs similar to the Biton, such as the Bichon Frise and the Coton de Tulear, are best for individuals or families with limited space. These breeds can comfortably adapt to living in smaller homes or apartments.
Is the Biton breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Biton breed is generally good with children, including those with special needs. Their friendly and gentle nature can make them suitable companions for children with special needs. However, as with any dog, proper supervision and training are essential to ensure the safety of both the child and the dog.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Biton?
The grooming and shedding needs of the Biton are moderate. Daily brushing is recommended to keep their coat looking great, and occasional baths are required. They have a fluffy or long and curly coat, which may require more maintenance compared to breeds with short hair. However, they are not heavy shedders.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Biton dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
