Bichon Frise Information
Posted on May 16, 2008
Filed Under Dogs |
The Mediterranean region is the point of origin for the dog breed now known as the Bichon Frise. In 600-300 B.C., Spanish sailors used this breed, then known as the Barbichon, to create diplomacy with other countries during trade missions. The Barbichon was naturally friendly and outgoing and had an attractive appearance. The popularity of the breed spread as it was introduced to various countries.
Its name was shortened to Bichon and later, expanded when the French added Frise to the name in reference to the breed’s defining characteristic, its curly, soft fur coat. Four types of Bichon Frise existed as Bichon Frise breeders began to breed the dogs in Australia and America. In 1973, the American Kennel Club (AKC) registered the Bichon Frise in the non-sporting group. This adorable and personable dog is believed to be a mix of poodle, generic white lap dog and Barbet. It has traits of all three. The AKC has defined specific characteristics Bichon Frise must have to be a part of AKC competition. A good Bichon Frise breeder attempts to retain the breed standard traits.
The Bichon Frise is recognizable by its white, curly fur coat. The breed, rather comically, resembles a cotton ball. The fur consists of two coats: a dense undercoat and a springy topcoat. The topcoat, when touched, feels like plush and springs back into shape when the hand is removed. The fur is white and the AKC only allows less than ten percent of the fur to be off-white. A Bichon Frise breeder recognizes and attempts to retain the breed standard characteristics with the fur being the first priority. Personality is also important. Per the American Kennel Club, Bichon Frise are always friendly and outgoing. They are also intelligent and hyper. The “Bichon Frise blitz” is a phrase describing the breed’s tendency to become excited and race around in circles in a burst of energy.
Because of the importance of the breed’s appearance and personality, the Bichon Frise requires high maintenance. These dogs must be brushed regularly and groomed and professionally trimmed every three months. The hyperactive nature and high activity level of the breed may not make them suitable for all owners. A plus of the Bichon Frise is that its fur is hypoallergenic. However, the dogs themselves suffer from many allergies.
Before the buyer interviews a Bichon Frise breeder he or she should ask a few questions of himself. The first question is why the buyer wants a Bichon Frise. The second is whether he or she can meet the needs of a Bichon Frise. If a buyer finds that they truly want this breed and is prepared to care for it, questions can then be asked of the Bichon Frise breeder.
A Bichon Frise buyer needs to ask a Bichon Frise breeder what they know about the breed. History, common medical and behavioral conditions, and care and grooming should all be explained. The breeder should be an expert on the breed and should be able to answer all the buyer’s questions. The buyer should ask for copies of pedigree, registration papers, immunizations records and medical records. Asking the right questions can help the buyer ensure a good match for a Bichon Frise puppy and that they can provide a permanent home for the Bichon Frise. It is also imperative that the Bichon Frise breeder ask questions of the buyer to make sure the buyer’s home is appropriate and that the buyer has adequate knowledge by which to care for the Bichon Frise.
Reputable Bichon Frise breeders informs buyers about the breed. Questions to ask a breeder and some general Bichon Frise information is provided in this article.
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