Bichon Frises

Appearance:

Body: Small and sturdy with a deep brisket and well-developed chest

Coat: Coarse and curly with a soft, dense undercoat. Often referred to as the "white powder-puff" because the fur bounces back after petting them

Color: White but may have a few areas with soft buff, cream, or apricot markings

Ears: Narrow and droopy. They face forward framing the face

Eyes: Round and dark with black rims. The eyes are alert and inquisitive

Feet: Tight, round and cat-like (compact) with black pads

Head: Skull is slightly rounded with a light muzzle and a black nose

Legs: Forelegs are straight and fine-boned with short pasterns. Hind legs broad with muscular thighs

Neck: Long, arched and carried proudly

Size:
Weight: 7 - 18 pounds (3 - 8kg)
Height: 9 - 12 inches (23 - 30cm)

Tail: Curls upward over the back when active or limp when relaxed

Behavior

Okay with a novice handler
Good with older and respectful children
Bichons can be barkers.

The Bichon Frise is a cheerful and happy dog who loves to run, play, chew, and climb on the furniture. He will enjoy taking walks with you and love to have companionship with humans. They don't fair well if left for long periods of time by themselves and are difficult to housebreak.

This popular family pet is a gentle little dog who needs lots of love and gentle handling. He will enjoy learning new tricks but will not be so accepting to obedience training. Make training fun and rewarding for your Bichon. Be patient as they are an energetic and independently-minded dog with territorial instincts. Any harsh treatment may make them stubborn and even spiteful of you.

Bichons were originally used as companions for royalty but have also been used in the circus ring

Breed Type

AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group
The Bichon were once used to herd sheep by the farmers in Norway.

There are four types of Bichon: the Bichon Maltais, the Bichon Bolognais, the Bichon Havanais, and the Bichon Tenerife

Care and Grooming

Exercise: Moderate exercise will be enough for your Bichon

Grooming: Due to their white coats, they require daily brushing and monthly baths. Many owners have them clipped every 4-6 weeks. Be certain to keep their ear canals clean and dry. Keep his rear (bottom) clean and brushed. Must keep the eyes wiped to prevent obstructions in the tear ducts.

Health

Life Expectancy: 12 - 15 Years

A generally healthy breed of dog

Possible Problems:
Allergies - some are very allergic to flea bites
Bladder Stones
Eye problems - must wipe regularly to keep from having tear duct obstruction
Hip problems
Hot Spots - caused from chewing on areas inflamed from flea bites

Teeth and gums need regular attention as the Bichon is prone to tartar buildup and gum disease.

Country of Origin

Mediterranean region - According to the Bichon Frise Club of America (BFCA), "The Bichon Frise is of Mediterranean history." They are also known to have been the royal favorite of dogs.