The Bichon Frise
A little white dog with a big heart wrapped in a coat that can vary from pet to show dog, the Bichon is a study of contrasts in some ways. They are a smaller dog but active. They shed little but need regular grooming. They’re a sturdy dog often confused with a poodle and although most recognized in white they can be white with apricot, buff or cream also.
This is a gentle incredibly loyal dog that is affectionate. They often remain playful for a long time and are highly sensitive to owner’s moods. Playing can take care of most of their exercise but they can use regular walks also.
The Bichon is feisty but it should be remembered as a small dog children might be too rambunctious for them. They can be somewhat stubborn to train with it common they will nip in playing. They’re adorable inside and out and living with a Bichon means being adored the way no human deserves!
They are good watch dogs to alarm you in case something is out of the ordinary but they are not guard dogs. They are social with people and other animals. They can go from couch potatoes to running laps around the room playing and enjoy playing with children that are considerate of the Bichon’s size. Many need the consistency of timing, persistence and a crate in order to housebreak.
Bichons need regular grooming. Because they are low shedding dogs brushing removes the dead hair as well as keeping tangles and mats from taking hold. The face should be trimmed and clean to keep the eye discharge from accumulating in the hair at the corners of their eyes. The Bichon has a soft undercoat with a curly outer coat. There’s a thickness to the coat that serves warning grooming is needed to keep it in good condition. A powder-puff look without excess sculpting is desired. Trim around the eyes and ears with a blunt pair of scissors and regular professional grooming is recommended.
Although credited with a French origin their earliest appearance is in the Mediterranean as early as 600 BC. Descending from water spaniels and poodles as a lap dog they originally had four divisions. Spanish sailors used the happy little dogs as barter items. The Bichon was employed as a canine greeter of people. Due to their high intelligence and willingness to learn they appeared in circuses in the late 1800s. In the mid 1960s the Australian mini-series Meweth featured a Bichon. Although making their way to the USA in 1955 it was 1973 before they received AKC recognition and are in the non-sporting group.
This is a good breed for someone who wants to take the time to teach the dog rules and misbehavior. They have few issues with excessive barking and destructive behavior if taught early proper behavior. They must be taught early, however, that excessive barking isn’t acceptable. Left unchecked they can be destructive – a crate helps not only in housebreaking but in giving a place with toys to pass the time you are out of the home. They NEED consistent discipline and guidance. They NEED rules and careful handling.
By the standard this is a breed 9