Dog Profile: The Bichon Frise

As a dog that was created specifically as a human companion, the Bichon Frise is a happy affectionate little dog, with a long and rather interesting history.

The breed originated in Spain during the 13th century, and is thought to have been created by crossing Poodles and Barbet Water Spaniels. They were used as an item of trade by Spanish sailors and as a result reached many European countries. In France, they became a particular favorite of the aristocracy, and by the 16th century, the Bichon was entrenched as the favorite dog of the French royal court.

The Bichon has always had an unsurpassed ability for learning tricks, and for this reason has always been a popular performing dog with circuses and other entertainment troupes.

The Bichon Frise is classified in the toy dog group and is normally between 9 and 12 inches in height at the shoulder. These sturdy little dogs can weigh up to 12 pounds, and have a soft, silky coat which is usually white in color but may have apricot or cream shading around the ears. The coat is considered to be hypoallergenic, making them ideal pets for allergy sufferers.

Given their history as companion dogs it is no surprise that these little guys are renowned for their winning personalities. They form close bonds with their people and are known to be excellent with children. They also generally get on well with other pets in the household.

Training one of these dogs is generally a breeze, as they are very intelligent and biddable. Surprisingly though, the Bichon is difficult to potty train.

As with most small dogs, the Bichon enjoys a relatively long life and it is not unusual for these dogs to live beyond 15 years. They are not immune to health problems though, with cancer, cataracts, epilepsy and fleabite allergies among the conditions that can occur. Another common concern is a disease called liver shunts, which requires surgery to correct.

Grooming a Bichon Frise is a labor intensive task requiring daily brushing as well as regular clipping to keep the coat in shape. The dog can be bathed in required, but don’t do this more than once a month as the skin is quite sensitive. Always use a mild dog shampoo, never a human shampoo.

It goes without saying that this is an indoor dog. The Bichon is perfect for apartment living and needs to always be close to his human family. They are quite prone to separation anxiety, and should therefore not be left unattended for long periods.

As with all dogs, the Bichon needs regular exercise, and while much of this can be met with indoor games, you’ll still need to get your dog outdoors for a short walk daily.

Find the perfect name for your Bichon Frise at Puppy Names HQ – 1000s of male dog names and female dog names just waiting to be found.

The Bichon Frise (Terra Nova Series)
by: Lexiann Grant
publisher: Tfh Pubns Inc, published: 2006-06-15
ASIN: 079383628X
EAN: 9780793836284
sales rank: 247358
price: $3.98 (new), $0.01 (used)

Along with chapters devoted to a variety of important care and health topics, this book includes a training chapter that features techniques which are specifically geared to the Bichon’s small frame.

Bichon Frisé Dog Pet Lover Jewelry Button Earrings 15454503
publisher: Blue Skies Plus
ASIN: B005VSOY44
price: $7.99 (new)
 

Our 1″ button earrings are different and funky. Fun to wear! Dress up your ears with earrings from Blue Skies Plus! ** 1 pair of button earrings ** Surgical steel fish hook wires ** 1 inch diameter (the size of a quarter) ** Printed on Metal shell ** Mylar/UV protecting cover ** Nice finished backing ** ** ** These are handmade right here in Colorado! The product you receive may vary slightly in the design placement.

Bichon Frise Animal Slippers for Women Onesize
ASIN: B0037TO6JM
price: $25.99 (new)
 

Dog lovers won’t be able to resist these adorable Bichon Frise animal slippers.• The heads turn around • Plush, foam non-skid sole • Slip on, mule-style slippers • 12″ long sole
Bichon Frise 2012 Wall Calendar 12″ X 12″
publisher: Browntrout
ASIN: B004XPSPIC
sales rank: 8454
price: $10.99 (new)
 

Bichon Frise Wall Calendar: The Bichon Frise is a small, sturdy, intelligent dog with an appealing disposition. This tiny bundle of energy, with its fluffy white coat and bright eyes, stars in this charming 2012 calendar.

Russ Trixie Bichon Frise
publisher: RUSS BERRIE
ASIN: B003BM8HW2
EAN: 0785275067681
sales rank: 78459
price: $14.99 (new)
 

12″ Bichon Frise named Trixie.

How to Train Your Bichon Frise (How To…(T.F.H. Publications))
by: Liz Palika
publisher: TFH Publications, published: 2000-01
ASIN: 0793836646
EAN: 9780793836642
sales rank: 99234
price: $5.74 (new), $1.19 (used)

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