The Bichon Frise

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Acknowledgements from "Bichon Frise" A complete Pet Owners Manual by Richard Beauchamp.

Appearance

The Bichon Frise is a small sturdy white powder puff of a dog whose merry temperament is evident by a plumed tail carried jauntily over the back and a dark eyed inquisitive expression. He stands less than 30cms at the shoulder.

History

The Bichon Frise gets it's name: so then where and when did the little white dog we know as the Bichon Frise come from? It is believed that the Bichon Frise first known as the Bichon Teneriffe came from the Canary Islands and the Spanish sailors and pirates in the 15th and 16th century took them as gifts to their ladies and used them for bartering.

History shows it made an appearance in France under Francis 1 the patron of the renaissance who reigned to 1547. He went undercover and emerged as a favourite of the court during the reign of Napoleon 111 in the early 1800's and diminished again. The Bichon Teneriffe became the common dog running the streets but the breed's agility and ability to learn quickly was to provide a new direction and preserve the breed from extinction. Even then it was not the least unusual to find the Bichon that could jump many times it's height walk on it's hind legs for long distances and do somersaults. Organ grinders and peddlers were quick to put the Bichon's antics to use soon the little dogs began performing tricks on street corners and the circuses and fairs. The little Bichons clowned about pawed the air as though they were begging for money and applause and their owners reaped the rewards.

This little dog survived two world wars was named the Bichon Frise after world war 1 and has fortunately become one of the most popular breeds for it's temperament and non shedding coat an suitable for people who would have allergies to the other dogs.

Temperament

The Bichon Frise is gentle mannered, sensitive, playful and affectionate. A cheerful attitude and very merry is the hallmark of the breed and should not be accepted or settled for anything less.

Care / Grooming

Is the Bichon Frise the right dog for you? He needs a lot of human companionship, brushing and combing at least twice a week. He needs to be bathed regularly and also needs to be kept trimmed every 6-8 week, whether you do it yourself of have it professionally done.

Health

The Bichon Frise is considered to be a "clean" breed and is not know to have any life threatening inherited diseases. There are a few minor problems that can come up sometimes such as Patella luxation (slipping knee caps). Corneal Dystrophy but this does not effect the eyesight. Bilateral hereditary cataracts is also a known problem. Bladder stones which can be inherited or can be diet. Bichons also need dental care as they are prone to losing teeth at an earlier than normal age if not attended to.

It is wise when buying your puppy that you ask the breeder if they have had the bloodlines tested orthopaedically and eyes and heart. If in doubt about any conditions your Bichon Frise may have please check the website. www.bichonhealth.org

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