| General Information |
| Group(s):
Non-Sporting |
Height: 9.5-11.5 inches |
| Weight: probably around 13-18 pounds |
Longevity: teens |
| Colors: white |
Coat type: curly and profuse over the entire body; undercoat is soft and dense with a crisper, curlier top coat |
| Recognized Registries: AKC, FKC and others |
| Overall Appearance: Compact, happy and alert. The Bichon Frise is a companion that has been compared to a cloud, but not because he is a lightweight. In fact, for his diminutive stature the Bichon tends to lean toward a solid structure unlike many small breeds that are overly refined. Bright eyes and lush coat give him a fashionable look all his own. |
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| Personaility - Behavior - Training |
| Energy Level: generally high until later in maturity |
| General Nature: |
exceptionally happy, easily overwhelmed by rough handling |
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with Children: generally good with well behaved children |
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with other pets: generally quite good |
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with dogs: generally very good |
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| Socialization requirements: To help prevent shyness, socialization is required. Very few creatures are more charming than the well socialized and thus confident and happy Bichon. |
| Ideal home characteristics: Aware of the need to avoid overindulgence, enthusiastic about spending time with their friend, interested in becoming familiar with positive training techniques and philosophies, dedicated to sound communication, preferably a fenced yard |
| Temperament Notes: happy... energetic, did we mention happy? |
| Training requirement: Easily guided and molded by consistent handling, as a dog bred to be a companion, your happiness is their paramount goal |
| Trainer notes: Do not fall into the trap of calling a Bichon stubborn or spiteful! These dogs will do what they are trained to do... instead look at your handling and treatment for errors that communicate to the dog that you desire the very behaviors you are about to punish the dog over. if there is a challenge in training a Bichon, it is that their lighthearted approach to life and love is such that very few things are treated with great seriousness. This may not be the more precisely trained dog in the world as instead, he/she strives to be the most entertaining. Definitely a training partner to "enjoy the process" with as their approach will make it all a pleasant adventure. |
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| Background Information |
| Year range of first recognition: 1934 the French Kennel Club |
| Country of Origin: Mediterranean later specifically France |
| Original Function: noted in artistry of the Renaissance as a companion to the royal and wealthy |
| History: From prince to pauper and then beloved companion of many, the Bichon was developed from the Barbet and became recognized as the Tenerife. A companion of Spanish sailors (he may have been used in barter), he spread around the coast of the Mediterranean. |
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| Adoption Information |
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| Deviations from Standard: |
| Health Notes: ear infections, eye problems (cataracts), patella luxation, skin/allergy issues, dental issues, bladder infections, immotile cilia syndrome |
| Health Testing: CERF, a finished CH is unlikely to have incorrect dentition |
| Questions to ask Breeder: http://www.digitaldog.com/breeder_questions.html - The Breeder Questions as listed here provided with explanations and answers you will want to be looking for!
- How long have you had Bichons?
- What titles do you seek for your breeding stock?
- What health issues do you see in the breed?
- What health clearances do you get for your breeding stock?
- Will you be keeping a puppy from this litter?
- Do you have a written contract and puppy guarantee?
- What do you consider correct Bichon temperament?
- What do you look for in homes for your pups?
- What methods do you recommend for training and socializing puppies?
- How did you select the sire for this litter?
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| Web Sites: You and your Bichon can step out in style and share your message with matching Ts from Bark Out Loud! from patriotism to spay/neuter to breast cancer awareness - you'll find the perfect message for you and your canine in a super design.
http://www.bichon.org/rescuefaq.htm- Rescue FAQ for Bichons
http://www.bichon.org/rescue.htm- Rescue Directory, nationwide
http://www.bichon.org/puppy.htm - EXCELLENT article with points to consider, questions to ask and questions to expect to answer about getting a Bichon Puppy!
http://www.bichon.org/huallergy.htm- Another good article explaining the concept of hypoallergenic dogs and the reality of that... reading for everyone who is considering a breed on the basis of this issue |
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| Other Resources |
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