In the case of the bichon frise, exact origins are unknown. It is thought that the breed is a descendent of the barbet. This family of dogs includes the Maltese, the Havanese, and the Bolgnese. The earliest records of the breed trace back to the 14th century. There is speculation as to how the dog arrived in Europe, but it is known that it was a popular breed in the royal courts. The breed fell out of favor after the ruling of Napoleon III, but regained popularity in the late 1800s. After World War I, extensive efforts were put into breeding the bichon frise. The American breed club was recognized in 1975. Since that time, the breed has become increasingly popular among families who desire a small but sturdy dog.
The Bichon Frise is an agile, energetic breed that is inquisitive and curious. This dog breed is small but a performer. It is a very fit and tireless dog that can trot effortlessly for long periods of time. The Bichon Frise has a double coat with a soft undercoat and a curly, wooly outer coat. It tends to shed a lot and needs to be brushed frequently. They also need to be cleaned regularly to preserve the white color of their coat.
Personality
These are lively and playful dogs that are friendly towards children, people, strangers and other animals. They love to cuddle and are definitely lap dogs. They have high energy and enjoy moderate exercise in the form of a walk or a game.
Breed Characteristics
| Type: | Pure |
| Family: | Bichon |
| Function: | Companion |
| Origin: | Europe |
| Preferred Climate: | Cold |
| Group: | Non-Sporting (Utility) |
| Life Span: | 12-15 Years |
| Nicknames: | Bichon |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
Bichon Frise Build Information
The Bichon Frise is an agile, energetic breed that is inquisitive and curious. This dog breed is small but a performer. He is a very fit and tireless dog that can trot effortlessly for long periods of time. The Bichon Frise has a double coat with a soft undercoat and a curly, wooly outer coat. He tends to shed a lot and needs to be brushed frequently. They also need to be cleaned regularly to preserve the white color of their coat.
| Size: | Small |
| Length (Male): | 8-12 in. |
| Length (Female): | 8-10 in. |
| Weight: | 15 – 25 lbs |
| Litter Size: | 4 – 5 Puppies |
| Tail Dock or Crop: | No |
Behaviour and Personality
These are lively and playful dogs that are friendly towards children, people, strangers and other animals. They love to cuddle and are definitely lap dogs. They have high energy and enjoy moderate exercise in the form of a walk or a game.
| Activity Level: | Very Active |
| Affection Level: | Very Affectionate |
| Aggressiveness Level: | Easy |
| Barking: | Quiet |
| Dominating or Submissive?: | Submissive |
| Energy Level: | Very Active |
| Good to Other Pets: | Friendly |
| Guardian Skills: | No |
| Independant: | No |
| Kid Friendliness: | Very Friendly |
Appearance
This breed needs regular, professional grooming in order to maintain the health of its coat. At home, the dog should be brushed at least twice every week, and bathed as often as necessary to keep the coat white. Brush the dog before bathing to prevent mats and tangles from becoming worse. Most owners notice tear stains on the faces of their bichons. The dogs are prone to both allergies and small tear ducts, both of which have an impact on the amount of discharge and staining.
| Colors: | White |
| Shedding: | None |
| Grooming: | High Maintenance |
| Coat Type: | Curly |
Bichon Frise Common Health Conditions
Bichons are typically healthy, but they are prone to several health conditions. These include bladder stones, bladder infections, allergies, patellar luxation, sensitivity to vaccinations, hip dysplasia, and juvenile cataracts. It is strongly advised that you do not purchase your bichon frise from a pet store. Bichons are incredibly popular in puppy mills, and this is where pet stores tend to purchase their animals. Dogs in puppy mills are not health tested, and a puppy from a mill has a higher chance of developing one of these genetic illnesses.
Bichon Frise Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
Bichon Frise dogs do not like to be left on their own for long periods of time. Obedience training is highly recommended for this intelligent breed. Professional grooming is necessary for the bichon frise. The urge to pick up and carry the dog everywhere must be ignored. Do not purchase a bichon frise from the pet store; it most likely came from a puppy mill. Crate training is recommended for this breed because potty training can be difficult. The Bichon Frise typically has its name shortened to “bichon”.
| Training: | Hard |
| Hunting Companion: | Yes |
| Jolly for Jogging: | No |
| Sighting Capabilities: | No |
| Ideal for Tracking: | No |
| Retrieving Skills: | No |
| Pointing Breed: | No |
| Herding Skills: | No |
| Dutiful Watchdog: | Yes |
| Security Guard Capable: | No |
| Police Performer: | No |
| Wet Water rescues: | No |
| Assist Disable Owners: | No |
| Dog Sledding: | No |
| Able to Perform Dog Carting: | No |
| Agile/Zippy: | Yes |
| Fun with Lure Coursing: | No |
| Obedient: | Yes |
| Possible Schutzhund Work: | No |
| Trainable for Tricks: | Yes |
