Bichon Frise

Other Breeds

Keeshond   |   Palomino   |   Pig – Pot Bellied   |  

Alternative Name

Bichon à poil fries (The Curly Lap Dog)

Basic Info

A Bichon Frisé (French, literally Curly lap dog; often spelled Bichon Frise in English) is a small breed of dog. They are popular pets, similar to poodles. They are often devoted to their masters. Color - Almost completely white, sometimes with cream, apricot or buff shadings around the ears. At least 90% must be white in a pure bred Bichon. Face - Expression should be alert, soft, inquisitive. The eyes are usually very dark, either black or dark brown. The skin surrounding the eye is also very dark. The nose and lips are always black. The ears are drop and covered in long, flowing hair. Coat - The undercoat is soft and dense while the outercoat is curly, giving it a powderpuff look. The coat feels thick and should spring back if touched.

Health

Although many all-white breeds suffer from a variety of ailments including ear infections and skin problems, Bichons have, for the most part, escaped these problems. Bichons live an average of 12 to 14 years. Care must be taken to keep the face of a Bichon Frisé clean and trimmed, as eye discharge and mucus tend to accumulate in the fur that grows in front of their eyes. Bichons do not tolerate the heat well. It is not unusual for members of this breed to have problems with luxating patellas and cataracts.

Habitat

Belgium / France

Behavior

Bichons are intelligent little dogs and demonstrate an inquisitive personality. They are very energetic and enjoy going for long walks, climbing on furniture, and chewing bones. However, Bichons are most comfortable being close to their owners regardless of the activity, and enjoy lounging as lap dogs. FriseBichons are easily housebroken using the crate method, but males tend to be a bit easier to train than females. They may become territorial, and sometimes jealous of attention given to other household animals, but generally get along well with other dogs (particularly other Bichons). Bichons are extremely friendly dogs and are easily excited when encountering people. There is a mutual fondness between Bichons and children, and therefore they make great pets for families. The Bichon Frise exhibits a trait called the “Bichon Buzz” - suddenly the Bichon will put its ears back, start growling and run feverishly around in obstacle-course fashion for a few moments.

Origin

Belgium / France

History

Bichons originate in the Mediterranean region, and were bred as lap dogs for the French royalty. The dogs ended up on the streets during the French Revolution, where they were caught and trained to be circus dogs. But their earliest orgins are traced to the Canary Islands.

Common Foods

pellet dog food