Bichon

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 creamish, gray or apricot hairs are sometimes seen.

The Bichon is a most appealing little white dog that loves human company. It has an independent spirit and is 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 loves 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 needs rules to follow, and limits to what they are and are not allowed to do.

They also need a daily pack walk. Do not allow this little dog to develop Small Dog Syndrome, a human induced behavior, where the dog feels he is pack leader to humans. This can cause varying degrees of a wide variety of behavior problems. Including, but not limited to, obsessive barking, guarding, separation anxiety, snapping, and even biting. These are not Bichon traits, but rather behaviors brought on by the way the dog is treated. If you begin to be your dogs pack leader, and are self-assured, calm consistently and assertive towards the dog, providing daily pack walks, the Bichon will be a very stable minded, trustworthy dog.

Their usual size: Height: 9-12 inches. Weight: 7-12 pounds.

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. These are active little dogs, which 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.

Grooming 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. The Bichon sheds little to no hair and is good for allergy suffers.

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.