<C>Availability:</C> May take some effort to find.
<b>History:</> The Bichon Frise first appeared in the 14th century, a cross between the Barbet Water Spaniel and the Poodle. The Bichon was traded by Spanish sailors, became a favorite of 16th century French royal courts, was a popular organ grinder's dog and a circus performer. Today the Bichon Frise is primarily a show dog and companion.
<b>Description:</> A pure white dog with a loosely curled double coat consisting of a textured outer coat lined with a soft undercoat. The Bichon is shown trimmed for a rounded appearance. Show dogs are trimmed with a scissors; the body of pet dogs may be clipped with electric clippers though the rest of the dog must still be scissored. Attractive. When properly groomed, the dog looks like an elegant powder puff. The ears are pendant. The nose is black, the eyes dark with a curious expression. The plumed tail is carried loosely over the back.
<b>Notes:</> This breed should be groomed frequently and bathed every 10 to 14 days. Professional grooming every 4 weeks is recommended. The coat is virtually hypo- allergenic. Watery eyes, cataracts, skin and ear ailments are sometimes a problem. Bichon Frises can be difficult to housebreak. Some are very sensitive to flea bites. Does better with walking than with jogging.
<b>Personality:</> The Bichon Frise is a most appealing little white dog. Charming and lively, cheerful, bold, gentle, dignified, intelligent and self-assured. Playful and affectionate, with a happy temperament. Easy to live with.
<b>Behavior:</>
<C>Children:</C> Excellent with children.
<C>Friendliness:</C> Loves everyone.
<C>Trainability:</C> Easy to train.
<C>Independence:</C> Needs people a lot.
<C>Dominance:</C> Low.
<C>Other Pets:</C> Generally good with other pets.
<C>Combativeness:</C> Friendly with other dogs.
<C>Noise:</C> Not a barker.
<b>Grooming and Physical Needs:</>
<C>Grooming:</C> Daily grooming is best.
<C>Trimming & Stripping:</C> Moderate trimming or stripping needed.
<C>Coat:</C> Medium coat.
<C>Shedding:</C> Very light.
<C>Exercise:</C> Moderate exercise needed.
<C>Jogging:</C> A fair jogging companion.
<C>Indoors:</C> Fairly active indoors.
<C>Apartments:</C> Will be OK in an apartment if sufficiently exercised.
<C>Outdoor Space:</C> Does all right without a yard.
<C>Climate:</C> Prefers cool climates.
<C>Owner:</C> Good for novice owners.
<C>Longevity:</C> Long (15 or more years).
<b>Talents:</> watchdog, agility, competitive obedience, and performing tricks.
<b>For More Information:</>
Call the AKC Breeder Referral Hotline: 1-900-407-PUPS for the name of a breeder referral representative in your area. Cost is 99 cents per minute.
