Bichon Frise

History

Bichon Frise dogs are descendants of Water Spaniel Poodles or the Barbets. They are originally from the Mediterranean area; hence the name 'Bichon' which was shortened from the name 'Barbichon.' Due to their cheerful nature these dogs traveled widely and were used for barter trade on sea voyages. They are believed to have been introduced to the Canary Islands by Spanish seamen. Italian sailors took them back with them to Italy, where they also became popular, especially among the nobles who later rediscovered them. Appreciated on sea voyages because they do not shed and because they enjoy water, Bichons require very little exercise. They were used to cheer up tired seamen and the breed is one of the few that have almost human eyes, capable of showing recognizable expressions.

Description

Bichon Frise literally means a 'curly lap dog' in French. The name generally refers to the powder white fur on the Bichon Frise dogs. They are described as a small but sturdy, white colored dog with round, dark eyes and black prominent noses. Their fur consist of an undercoat that is silky and an overcoat which is curly with small patches of cream around the snout, ears, paws or body. Their ears hang and have flowing hair covering them. They also have strong lower jaws and fine black lips that do not droop. Their legs and heads are proportionate to their body size and their tails are natural, meaning they are not cropped or docked.

Temperament

The Bichon frise breed of dogs are cheerful, playful, intelligent, happy and loving. They are especially happiest around people, particularly men. They are also very obedient and are therefore very easy to train. Bichon Frise dogs are also sensitive and affectionate and make very good companions for children. They also get along very well with other pets. These dogs move cautiously but freely with no effort and are very adaptable. They thrive on human contact and love to be included in family activities; when left alone they tend to be miserable.

Health and Care

Bichon Frise dogs are the only dogs that do not shed hair and for that reason they can be brushed daily to prevent matting. As a result of this, they make excellent pets for those who are allergic to dog hair. The coat on their bodies should be trimmed and kept clean and the same applies for the hair on their face which could accumulate mucus and eye discharge. Owners should also be watchful of tear staining around the eyes which is usually a result of infections, allergies, tear ducts that are blocked and foreign materials or loose eyelashes in the eyes. The ears should be checked regularly, kept clean and the excess hair removed. Their toes should also be clipped regularly and excess hair from the foot pads removed.

Important Information

Just like other breeds of dogs, these dogs also have inherited diseases which include cataracts, cherry eyes, warts, ligament problems, knee dislocation, liver shunts, Immune-mediated Thrombocytopenia (ITP), cancer, epilepsy and Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA). The Bichon Frise was favored by Spanish painters and was often included in their paintings. One such painter was the famous Francisco de Goya. Other famous Bishon Frises include Snowy of the famous Tintin comics by the Belgian author Herges and Molly who appeared in the American TV mini series Meweth. This has led to the demand for these dogs particularly in the eastern U.S.

Pets4You offers listings of Bichon Frise breeders with puppies for sale.