BICHON FRISE Breed Standards
Known for most of its existence as the Bichon Tenerife, the Bichon Frise originated thousands of years ago around the Mediterranean Sea. The Tenerife belongs to the Bichon family of dogs, which traces its lineage back to crossings between Barbets (similar to a Water Spaniel) and small white dogs. Each Bichon dog takes its name from the place credited with its development, and the Tenerife is no different, since it developed on the Canary Island of Tenerife. During the 16th century the Bichon Tenerife was brought to France, where its popularity waxed and waned depending on the tastes of those in power; Francis I, Henry III and Napoleon III are known to have helped boost the popularity of this dog. Portraiture from this period often featured royals posing with their puffy white Bichons.
The 19th century saw a severe reversal of the Tenerife’s fortunes. Banished from the comfortable parlors of the aristocracy, the Bichon Tenerife now found itself on street corners among street performers and organ grinders, entertaining passers by. In this capacity, the dog was greatly aided by its facility for learning and performing tricks, and it was this skill that preserved the dog until World War I, when it was nearly wiped out. During the 1930s a group of French breeders began an effort to preserve the breed, and in 1933 it was officially recognized under the name Bichon Frise by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale. The Bichon Frise was brought to the Untied States during the 1950s and recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1971. Since that time, the breed has enjoyed a modest but stable rise in popularity.
SKILLS: The Bichon is a most appealing little white dog that loves human company.
SIZE: Height: Dogs 9-12 inches (23-30cm.) Bitches 9-11 inches (23-28cm.) Weight: 7-12 pounds (3-5kg.)
COAT: The Bichon Frise is a charming puffball of a dog with a loosely curled double coat consisting of a textured outer coat lined with a soft, fine, silky undercoat that is 3 to 4 inches (7-10cm.) long and is virtually hypo-allergenic. It is usually all white, but cream, gray or apricot hairs are permitted. It can be shown clipped like a poodle or long-haired with clippings only at the feet and muzzle. This breed should be trimmed for a rounded appearance. It has a moderate muzzle that is not pointed. Its stop is only slightly accentuated. It has a scissors bite with round dark intelligent eyes and hanging ears that are well covered with hair. The neck is long and the chest is well developed. Its tail is curved over its back.
CARE REQUIRED: This breed should be groomed frequently and bathed every month. ProfessionaL groomin is recommended every 4 weeks. Trim around the eyes and ears with a blunt pair of scissors and clean the eyes extensively to prevent staining. Show dogs are trimmed with scissors. The body of the pet dogs may be clipped with electric clippers though the rest of the dog must still be scissored. The Bichon sheds little to no hair and is good for allergy suffers.
CHARACTER: It has an independent spirit, is intelligent, affectionate, bold and lively. This charming, gentle dog is not a yapper. It has a self-assured, happy temperament that is easy to live with. These bright little dogs are easy to train and just plain old love everyone. They need people to be happy. They are naturally sociable and are happiest when they are part of a family that takes them everywhere. This sociable trait also means that they are fine in the company of other dogs & pets and are excellent with children. Used as watchdogs and to perform tricks, this breed is competitive and obedient. Like a lot of smaller breeds, the Bichon may be difficult to housebreak. The Bichon Frise was one of the "Yuppie Puppies" very popular in the 1980's. As a result many were carelessly over-bred and some Bichon lines can be snippy.
TRAINING: These are active little dogs and play will take care of most of their exercise needs, but they do love walks and especially to romp in the open.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: The Bichon Frise can live in an apartment if it gets enough exercise. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.
EXERCISE: The Bichon Frise is primarily a companion and show dog.
