General Information About the Bichon Frise

 

  • Where do they come from?
    The Bichon Frise originates from the Medditeranean area. They were first introduced to the French Kennel Club in 1934, lending to their reference of being "French" dogs.  They were not introduced into the American Kennel Club until the early 1970's.

  • What size are they?
    The Bichons size is measured in inches (measured from the top of the shoulders to the ground) and ranges between 9 and 12 inches.  The adult Bichons weight varies depending upon his size but usually ranges between 12 and 16 pounds.

  • What color are they?
    The Bichon is white and is allowed to have up to 10% of buff, apricot or cream colored shadings over the entire body. Puppies commonly have buff, apricot or cream color on their ears or head and sometimes a patch on their back.  Colors on ears  will almost always fade to complete white.
  • What do they look like in general? The Bichon Frise is a white powder-puff of a dog with expressive black eyes and halos, lips and footpads.  The tail is well-plumed and carried jauntily over the back.  The coat is naturally curly but when brushed and trimmed it is like velvet or plush, looking like cotton.
  • What do they act like?
    The Bichon is an extremely calm, sweet and affectionate breed.  They are very quiet, are excellent with children and other pets.  They are very adaptable, and will mold to the personality of the family they live with. 
  • Do they shed?
    No.  The Bichon has a COMPLETELY NON-SHEDDING coat.
  • What about allergies?
    Since the Bichon does not shed and has a low dander level, they have been refered to as being "hypo-allergenic".  Many people with asthma and other allergies have been able to own a Bichon without any adverse reaction.
  • What about grooming?
    The Bichon does require periodic grooming since the coat does not shed.  The proper method of grooming is by a scissor cut as opposed to shaving with clippers.  When brushed out while being dried they achieve the beautiful powder puff effect.
  • Are they healthy?  How long do they live?
    The breed is generally healthy and how long they live depends on a variety of things, such as diet, dental care, exercise and environment.  A respectable age for a Bichon is 10-12 years, with them often living 14-15 years. 
  •  Additional site for health information:  http://www.bichon.org/health.htm

 


 
  

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