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First Impressions
A small and fluffy dog with a poodle like appearance.
The History Of The Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is also known as the Tenerife Dog. They originated in Spain during the 1400's.
It is an ancient breed of unknown ancestry. Bichons have been the favored by aristocratic ladies since the Middle Ages. It is rumored that they spread around the Mediterranean because amorous sea captains knew the favors they could swap for one of these little fluffy and cute lap dogs.
Description Of The Bichon Frise
The tail curls over the back and is not altered. Narrow ears hang close to and frame the face. They are never altered.
The dogs averages 9 - 12 inches tall and bitches 9 - 11 inches. They weigh around 7 - 12 pounds.
The Bichon Frise is a charming fluffy dog with a coat that is virtually hypo-allergenic. It can be shown clipped like a poodle or long haired with clipping at the feet and muzzle.
Coat & Grooming
The thick double coat, if left unattended would form short, tight curls. It is usually brushed out and trimmed to powder puff effect. Hair on the ears and tail is longer than that on the body. Permissible colors are white or white in combination with buff, cream, apricot, or gray.
This breed should be groomed frequently and bathed every month. Professional grooming is recommended every 4 weeks.
Temperament and Bichon Frise Training
The Bichon is intelligent, affectionate, brave and full of life. A gentle dog that does not have an annoying yap. They are fine in the company of other dogs & pets and are excellent with children. Useful as watchdogs.
These intelligent dogs are easy to train and love the company of people. As with all dogs, Bichon Frise training should be started as a puppy. To prevent behavioral problems later in life, training should follow a recognized training regime.
Either enroll in a certified local dog training school or read this.
Life Expectancy and Health
The average life span for a Bichon Frise is 15 or more years.
Reported health problems: prone to watery eyes, cataracts, skin and ear ailments, also epilepsy and dislocated kneecaps. Sensitive to flea bites.
Please read our page on health problems by clicking here.
Preferred Environment and Exercise Requirements
The Bichon Frise are happy in an apartment but do need plenty of exercise.
These are active dogs and play will take care of most of their exercise needs. They do love walks and especially to play out in the open.
For More Information on the Bichon Frise
To get more information, check out the Bichon Frise website:
www.bichon.org
There may also be rescue dogs available. Check for details on:
www.bichon.org/rescue.htm
Summary
The name Bichon Frise means “little fluffy dog” in French. A high purchase price followed by monthly professional grooming can make the Bichon an expensive breed to own. Great dogs to train - many of the “poodles” seen performing in the circus are actually Bichons.
:: Bichon Frise Training ::
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