bichonfrise

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The elegant and merry little Bichon Frise - whose French name can be roughly translated as "curly-haired lapdog" - certainly ranks among the most desirable of small canine companions. This tiny white puffball's small stature, intelligence, playful personality, and devotion to family combine whit his obedient nature to make him eminently well suited for living a rich life with his owners - as long as these owners devote adequate attention to keeping his magnificent coat in good shape and his craving for attention well satisfied.

The Bichon Frise is an old breed. Originating in the Mediterranean region thousands of years ago and introduced into Europe prior to the Renaissance by seafaring merchants, he became, over the course of several centuries, not only a beloved companion to Italian, French, and British nobles and monarchs, but also a performing dog, doing tricks in circuses and "dancing" in the street to the accompaniment of traveling musicians. It wasn't until the 1950s, however, that the breed was brought to the United States, and it was only in 1973 that the American Kennel Club officially recognized the Bichon Frise.

Today, this toy breed is popular with American dog lovers; the club registers about 12,000 of them annually.

Despite his attractive trait, the Bichon Frise is, of course, by no means perfect. Although typically respectful of his owner, he has a mind of his own and my behave stubbornly at times. the breed may also be difficult to housebreak. And while he is typically an excellent companion for children, he might snap at them is annoyed or startled by them. While he doesn't shed very much, his dense white coat requires constant attention - preferably a good brushing every day - to keep it lovely, healthy, and free of matting.