What makes the Bichon Frise Unique?
Bichon Frises are energetic balls of white fur that love to cuddle and play with their human families. These happy-go-lucky creatures make good companions for other animals. They are also wonderful with children.
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Is the Bichon Frise Right For You?
Originating in the Mediterranean, the Bichon Frise descended from a mixture of Poodles and Water Spaniels. It is believed that Spanish and Italian sailors discovered these dogs and carried them around the world on their voyages, sometimes using them to barter for other goods. European nobility caught the fever, and eventually Bichon Frises were appearing in Renaissance paintings alongside their royal owners. During the late 1800s . Perky, bouncy and playful, the bichon frise’s happy-go-lucky outlook endears it to all. It is friendly toward strangers and other dogs and pets, and it is very good with children. It is sensitive, responsive and affectionate, as eager to cuddle as it is to play. It can bark a lot.
In 5 Words
- Playful
- Feisty
- Gentle
- Cheerfu
- Affectionate
Characteristics
Learn About the Bichon Frise
Description
General Description
Although the main characteristic of this breed is its fluffy coat, there are a number of other standards that need to be kept in mind. The Bichon should be longer than it is tall. This breed has slightly rounded skulls set with dark round eyes that often show an inquisitive expression. Their noses should be black and their muzzles should not be pointed. On Bichons, both their ears and tails should be in their natural form rather than being docked or cropped. The long, curly tail on this breed is carried over their backs. These dogs should have heads and legs that are in proportion with the rest of their frame. They should be agile and trot effortlessly.
Size
Bichon Frises are small dogs. Most weight between 5 and 10 kilograms (10 and 20 pounds). Dogs of this breed measure about 23 to 30 centimeters (9 to 12 inches) at the withers or shoulder blades. Somewhat larger dogs are not uncommon, however.
Coat
This breed has a double-coat of solid apricot, grey, or white but white is the preferred color in the show ring. The undercoat is soft, while the curly, coarse outer coat stands off from the body. The fur of a Bichon may spring back when it is handled. Some have curlier coats than others do. By comparison, the undercoat is silky and dense. Markings in apricot, cream, or buff shades are allowed on dogs’ paws, snout, ears, and/or body. These areas should account for less than 10% of a dog’s fur. Bichons often have their coats trimmed so that their coat seems an even length.
Short History of the Bichon Frise
Originating from a cross between Poodles and Water Spaniels, the Bichon Frise breed comes from the Mediterranean. It is thought that these good natured dogs were often bartered for goods by sailors on both Spanish and Italian ships. Eventually the Bichons caught the interest of European nobility, catching even the interest of the royal courts. Their popularity waned temporarily during the 1800s as they became common as show dogs. However, after being recognized by the French Kennel Club in 1934, the Bichon Frises returned to popularity.
Temperament
These dogs are incredibly affectionate and require human interaction to be happy. Bichons are at their best when they are included in an active family that lets them tag along on outings. They are tolerant of other animals and fine in the company of strangers. Nonetheless, this breed also makes a good watchdog and is prone to boredom barking if left to its own devices. These dogs are reasonably obedient but are prone to behavior issues if they are not properly trained to regard their owners as being in charge.
Caring for Your Bichon Frise
General Health
- Bichon Frises are prone to bladder problems such as infections and stones. To prevent bladder stones from forming their diets should be carefully monitored. Bladder infections are indicated by frequent urination, bloody urine, or difficulty in urinating. Loss of appetite can also occur. Both problems should be treated by qualified veterinarians.
Another problem for this breed is allergies. While food and contact allergies are the norm, Bichons may also be allergic to flea bites. Scratching, face rubbing, and paw licking are signals that a dog is allergic to something and one’s vet is a good source for figuring out what that is. In a similar vein, a number of Bichons suffer from vaccination sensitivity. This condition may result in hives, lethargy, soreness and facial swelling. Owners should keep an eye on their pets after any vaccinations and call the vet immediately if they notice any of the aforementioned symptoms.
Joint problems are yet another concern. Bichon Frises are prone to patellar luxation or dislocation of the knee cap. The condition ranges from serious to mild, depending on the dog. They are also prone to hip dysplasia, a condition in which the hip and thigh do not fit together properly. This ailment can be a precursor to arthritis, but can cause a number of other problems.
Puppies should be tested for hip dysplasia prior to being sent home with their new owners. These pups should also come from breeding stock that has been certified by the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF). This preventative measure will help owners avoid dogs that might have juvenile cataracts, a condition thought to be hereditary.
Care
Daily
A Bichon Frise will need a short daily walk in order to avoid weight gain and prevent boredom. Playing games with these dogs and teaching them tricks are other good ways for them to get their exercise. This breed also requires a daily brushing.
Weekly
In order to prevent the onset of periodontal disease, it is a good idea for pet owners to brush their dog’s teeth on a regular basis. There a number of products currently on the market for pets.
Monthly
These dogs require professional grooming from time to time in order to prevent matted fur. All dogs require flea, tick and heartworm prevention medication on a monthly basis.
Juvenile Cataracts
Cataracts sometimes develop in relatively young (less than six years old) Bichons. This is thought to be hereditary. When buying a Bichon puppy, be sure to ask if the breeder her breeding stock is certified by the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF), and ask to see the certificates yourself.
Grooming & Bathing
Although they do not really need regular brushing as puppies, it is a good idea nonetheless to get these dogs accustomed to the procedure so grooming does not become difficult once the Bichon Frise reaches the age it is needed. This breed is prone to rust colored tear stains around their eyes, which can have various causes. Hair should be clipped out of the dog’s eyes to prevent this condition from occurring but, even so, it may be caused by allergies. Eye drops that are not medicated can be used regularly to prevent tear stains. Bichons should have their nails trimmed and ears cleaned out on an as needed basis.
Exercise & Training
Although they can be somewhat hard to housebreak, Bichons will greatly benefit from basic obedience training at an early age. These intelligent, sensitive dogs learn quickly but do best with positive reinforcement training methods. Praise and treats work very well as rewards for this breed. Bichons react badly to harsh verbal or physical discipline. When exposed to such methods, these dogs may refuse to do anything at all rather than get themselves in trouble.
Bichon Frise Picture Gallery
