Bichon Frise

Group: Toy
Size: Small
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Exercise: Little
Grooming: Very High
Trainability: High
Area of Origin: France
Date of Origin: Ancient times
Other Names: Tenerife dog, Bichon Tenerife, Bichon A Poil Frise
Original Function: Companion, performer

History
The Bichon Frise is an old breed that can be traced to the 1300's, but it is likely to be far older (some people say it pre-dates the Common Era). Its oldest recognised ancestor is the BarBichon cam, or "water spaniel," which evolved into four breeds: the Bichon Bolognese, the Bichon Havanese, the Bichon Maltese and the Bichon Tenerife. Today's Bichon Frise, named in 1933, is directly descended from the Tenerife. The Bichon Tenerife attracted the attention of Europe's nobility, particularly those in Italy, as well as wealthy merchants. As Italian influence spread, the Tenerife happily followed. The dog became part of the court of the French King Francis in the early 1500s. By the late 1500s, the Tenerife had become a favorite of France's King Henry III, who reportedly had a Tenerife travel with him wherever he went. The dog was pampered, perfumed and beribboned, giving rise to the French verb, "Bichonner" (to pamper). The Bichon Tenerife was soon given a prominent place in other countries, and artists included a Bichon-like dog in many of their portraits. The Spanish artist Francisco Goya was one famous artist who favored the Bichon Tenerife. The dog gradually lost his aristocratic favor and became a street dog, performing in circuses and fairs. The breed survived and in 1933, the name was changed to Bichon a polio Frise (Bichon with the curly coat). The name was shortened to Bichon Frise.

Temperament
Once bred as star performers in circuses and travelling shows, Bichon Frises have a cheerful temperament and a willingness to learn. Today, these winning traits mean they can adapt to most households, including those with children and cats. However, you'll need to train and socialise your Bichon Frise properly, as this breed can be quite vocal.

Upkeep
Although small, the Bichon is an active dog and needs daily exercise. Its needs can be met with a vigorous indoor game or, better, a romp in the yard or a short walk on leash. The white powder-puff coat needs brushing and combing every other day, plus scissoring and trimming every two months. It doesn't shed, but the loose hairs become entangled in the coat and can mat. It may be difficult to keep white in some areas. This is not a dog that should live outdoors.

Breeders

Unfortunately there are no known breeders of the Bichon Frise at this time. Please take a look at some alternative suggestions below or if you know of a registered breeder please contact us.

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• Havanese

• Maltese

• Shih Tzu

Breed information sourced from: https://www.dogsnz.org.nz
Images sourced from Google Images.
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