Bichon Frise

History

The Bichon Frise is believed to have come from the Canary Islands and were taken by Spanish sailors and pirates in the 15th and 16th centuries as gifts for their ladies and for bartering.  They later made an appearance in France and were popular among the French courts before becoming a common dog in the streets of France.

Description

The Bichon is a small sturdy little dog resembling a white powder puff. They are a gay, happy, lively little dog with a dark eye and inquisitive expression. They stand less than 30cm at the shoulder.

Grooming and Physical Needs

  • Grooming Needs: A Bichon Frise will need to see a groomer every 6 to 8 weeks for a trim and will need to be both brushed and bathed in between trims.
  • Coat Type: Double coated breed, always white. Soft and dense undercoat and course outer coat combine to create a soft but subsantial texture
  • Moulting: They are a low shedding breed but must be brushed to remove dead hair from their undercoat
  • Exercise Needs: The Bichon requires moderate exercise, but mostly will need to be an integral part of your family.
  • Average Life Span: 12 to 15 years.

Behaviour

  • Family: As a small companion dog they do best when they are able to be involved with you and your life, they would suit a range of families from retirees to active young families.
  • Temperament: The Bichon Frise is generally considered to be gentle mannered, sensitive, playful and affectionate.
  • Trainability: Bichon Frise are considered to be highly trainable and have been used in circus acts and fairs with their clownish antics.
  • Sociability (Other Pets): Bichon Frise are generally social with other pets, but this of course comes down to socialisation of your pet.
  • Barking: Moderate tendency.

Talents

Bichons belong to the toy group and are used as companions and obedience dogs. With their extraordinary coats they also make excellent show dogs.

Notes

Bichons are very healthy little dogs and relatively free from hereditary and congenital problems. Dislocation of the kneecap and epilepsy have been recorded in the breed and bladder stones can occur in females. The most important factors are proper care of teeth, eyes and coat.