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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are small, well-balanced dogs. They have a double coat with a textured
outer coat and a silky soft undercoat. The coat color is usually white with shadings
of buff, cream or apricot around the ears or body. Any color in excess of 10% of
the entire coat of a mature dog is a fault. The slightly rounded head has a moderate
muzzle with a defined stop. The jaw should be strong with the teeth meeting in a
scissor-like bite. The dark eyes should be round and the nose should be black. The
ears should sit slightly above eye level and hang closely to the head. The arched
neck is long and the chest well developed. The medium-boned front legs are straight
with well-bent stifles and the feet are round. The raised tail should be set on
the top-line, curved and carried over the back.
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Temperament
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Bichon Frise is a charming, lively, gentle, intelligent and self-assured breed.
They have an independent spirit and are very affectionate. Due to their joyful demeanor
they make perfect family dogs and are ideal playmates for children. This breed loves
company and gets along with other dogs and non-canine pets. Bichon Frise may be
difficult to housebreak. In the 1980s the Bichon Frise was known as the "Yuppie
Puppies" which led to careless over-breeding which has caused some lines to become
brusque. Make sure to purchase from a reputable breeder.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 9-12" ; Weight: 7-12 lbs.
Female Height: 9-11" ; Weight: 7-12 lbs.
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Health Problems
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This breed can be prone to cataracts, skin and ear problems and dislocated kneecaps.
They can have sensitivity to flea bites.
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Living Conditions
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Bichons can live fine in an apartment. They are lively and active inside and can
do fine without a yard.
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Exercise
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This breed can take care of its own exercise needs, but loves to go for a walk.
They should be given the opportunity to romp free without a lead in a safe area.
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Life Expectancy
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15 or more years
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Grooming
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The Bichon sheds little or no hair and is good for allergy sufferers. They should
be bathed at least once a month and the hair around the face should be scissor trimmed
often. Care should be taken with cleaning around their eyes. Show dogs should be
professionally groomed every 4 weeks.
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Origin
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Bichon Frises emerged during the 14th century as a cross between Barbet Water Spaniels
and Poodles. This breed was developed on several Mediterranean islands. Bichon Frises
are thought to originate from Tenerife. Spanish sailors would take them from Tenerife
and trade them in Europe. In the 16th century, Bichon Frises were popular in the
French and Spanish courts and have been depicted in royal family portraits. In the
18th century, other breeds piqued the interest of royalty and Bichon Frises became
the dog of the commoners, becoming famous for being circus and organ-grinder dogs.
At the end of World War I, this breed became popular again but this time with servicemen
who were serving in the area. The breed was standardized in 1934 and renamed by
Madame Nizet de Leemans, the president of the International Canine Federation. They
are recognized by the AKC and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC Non-Sporting, UKC Companion Dog
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