BICHON FRISE
APPEARANCE
The Bichon has a powder-buff appearance that is not only striking but derives from its double coat. The coat of the Bichon Frise is white, and can have markings of cream, apricot, or buff. With a moderate muzzle that is not sharp or pointed, its bite is one of scissor, and has beautiful quizzical eyes that are dark and intelligent with well-covered hanging ears. The weight of the Bichon Frise is around 12-18 pounds, and the height is around 9-12 inches.
PERSONALITY
The Bichon is smart, affectionate and energetic. They adore the company of humans and make fantastic family pets. A sensitive dog whose feelings get hurt easily, it is the breed who’s favorite past time is to cuddle up in someone’s lap. These dogs are very entertaining and make for great companions, and have a very gentle nature and are sensitive and affectionate. This is a little dog that loves to play, and is very sociable with plenty of personality.
TRAINING
The Bichon Frise is an easy dog to train, as it is quick and intelligent. A naturally obedient breed, they have a history of being easily trained as a star performer, doing tricks, therapy work, and agility shows. Crate training works best for the Bichon Frise. It is important to be consistent and patient. This breed requires gentle and firm training, as they are so gentle and sensitive that any harsh training or negative corrections will have an opposite effect on the puppy or adult dog.
EXERCISE
A low exercise level is recommended for the Bichon, because they exercise themselves throughout the day with their bouncy personality and high energy level anyway. They enjoy daily walks and play sessions. However, although they do love to play and frolic outside as well as go for walks, this is not a dog for someone that likes to spend too much time outdoors.
SOCIALIZATION
They get along well with children of all ages in addition to adults. He will also get on well with other pets and is amiable around strangers. These dogs are not bossy or dominant, but they can be very independent. The Bichon Frise thrives on socialization and loves to perform tricks.
LIVING CONDITIONS
They are well suited to apartment living provided appropriate exercise is given. The Bichon Frise loves to run and play in a securely fenced yard. They are very adaptable, and will be happy in various living environments. This is not a dog for someone that likes to spend too much time outdoors.
GROOMING
Although the Bichon Frise does not tend to shed much, he is pretty high maintenance when it comes to grooming. White coat of the Bichon Frise needs routine brushing and combing every other day, along with scissoring and trimming once every other day. The Bishon would need more frequent bathing as compared to a shorthaired dog, such as once a week or once a month-depending on the lifestyle of the Bichon. You should also ensure that you check the ears regularly to reduce the chance of infection.
HEALTH ISSUES
The Bichon Frise has a life expectancy of around 14 years. This dog sometimes suffers from patellar luxation, Cushing’s and canine hip dysplasia. Allergies, eye conditions, and ear infections are also prone to the Bichon, with a needed focus on dental care.
HISTORY
The Bichon Frise was developed in the Mediterranean area, when a Barbet (a large water spaniel breed) was crossed with small white lapdogs. The Bichon Frise of today has its ancestry in the Bichon Tenerife breed line, which found its way to the Mediterranean area, onto the Canary Islands. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1972.
