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Description
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The
Bichon Frise is a charming puffball of a
dog with a loosely curled double coat consisting
of a textured outer coat lined with a soft,
fine, silky undercoat that is 3 to 4 inches
(7-10cm.) long and is virtually hypo-allergenic.
It is usually all white, but cream, gray
or apricot hairs are permitted. It can be
shown clipped like a poodle or long-haired
with clippings only at the feet and muzzle.
This breed should be trimmed for a rounded
appearance. It has a moderate muzzle that
is not pointed. Its stop is only slightly
accentuated. It has a scissors bite with
round dark intelligent eyes and hanging
ears that are well covered with hair. The
neck is long and the chest is well developed.
Its tail is curved over its back. |
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Temperament
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The
Bichon is a most appealing little white
dog that loves human company. It has an
independent spirit, is intelligent, affectionate,
bold and lively. This charming, gentle dog
is not a yapper. It has a self-assured,
happy temperament that is easy to live with.
These bright little dogs are easy to train
and just plain old love everyone. They need
people to be happy. They are naturally sociable
and are happiest when they are part of a
family that takes them everywhere. This
sociable trait also means that they are
fine in the company of other dogs &
pets and are excellent with children. Used
as watchdogs and to perform tricks, this
breed is competitive and obedient. Like
a lot of smaller breeds, the Bichon may
be difficult to housebreak. The Bichon Frise
was one of the "Yuppie Puppies" very popular
in the 1980's. As a result many were carelessly
over-bred and some Bichon lines can be snippy.
When seeking a Bichon be sure to find a
reputable breeder to get the best personality
traits this breed has to offer. |
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Height,
Weight
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Height:
Dogs 9-12 inches (23-30cm.) Bitches 9-11
inches (23-28cm.)
Weight: 7-12 pounds (3-5kg.) |
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Health
Problems
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Some
are prone to watery eyes, cataracts, skin
and ear ailments, also epilepsy and
dislocated kneecaps. They can be very sensitive
to flea bites. |
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Living
Conditions
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The
Bichon Frise can live in an apartment if
it gets enough exercise. They are fairly
active indoors and will do okay without
a yard. |
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Exercise
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These
are active little dogs, who need a daily
walk. Play will take care of a lot
of their exercise needs, however, as with
all breeds, play will not fulfill their
primal instinct to walk. Dogs who do not
get to go on daily walks are more likely
to display behavior problems. They will
also enjoy a good romp in a safe open area
off lead, such as a large fenced in yard. |
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Life
Expectancy
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About
15 or more years |
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Litter
Size
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1
- 6 puppies - Average 4 - 5 |
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Grooming
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This
breed should be groomed frequently and bathed
every month. Professional grooming is recommended
every 4 weeks. Trim around the eyes and
ears with a blunt pair of scissors and clean
the eyes extensively to prevent staining.
Show dogs are trimmed with scissors. The
body of the pet dogs may be clipped with
electric clippers though the rest of the
dog must still be scissored. The Bichon
sheds little to no hair and is good for
allergy suffers. |
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Origin
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The
Bichon Frise first appeared in the 14th
century, a cross between the Barbet Water
Spaniel and the Poodle. The Bichon was traded
by Spanish sailors and became a favorite
of the 16th century French royal courts.
It was a popular organ grinder's dog and
also a circus performer. Today the Bichon
Frise is primarily a companion and show
dog. |
