Pippa Miniature Schnauzer Mitzi Bichon Frise

Fun Facts About Bichon Frise
By Kevin Gawricki

The Bichon Frise was a favorite in Spain. Becoming the favorite of painters. Goya featured the Bichon in a number of paintings.

Was developed in Mediterranean area.

Made its appearance in Canary Islands under Francis I, patron of Renaissance, but greatest success was in Court of Henry III.

Became favorite of Italian nobility in 14th Century.

Descended from Barbet or Water-Spaniel.

Was used as barter item by sailors.

Kevin is owner of Dog Gone Good Stuff which he founded because of the need for a place that caters specifically to dogs and their owners specific needs. Please feel free to visit Dog Gone Good Stuff for all your dogs needs. Web address www.doggonegoodstuff.com

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What does every Bichon Frise lover want most for their precious pup? It’s pretty simple. We want them to enjoy a healthy, happy, long life with us. And what’s the best way to make this happen? That’s easy. Provide an environment like the one dogs have had naturally over the past 10,000+ years, which consists of: exercise in fresh air and sunshine and a carnivorous diet – that is, a diet mainly of raw meat and bones.

Dogs traditionally have hunted and eaten small prey which provided them with muscle meat, organs, bones and the vegetable contents of the prey’s stomach – all of which were raw. Since we can’t provide prey, the next best thing is to purchase organic meat that is antibiotic and hormone-free and comes from animals that are grass fed – organic ground beef or bison and bones. It’s a good idea to buy local if you can.

Farmers markets and health food stores are the places to check first. To locate a farmer in your vicinity who produces grass-fed beef, check out www.eatwild.com on the internet.

If you are in the city, you might try calling supermarkets- some are beginning to carry organic meats. If you’d like to try bison, www.northstarbison.com will ship to your door. In Virginia, the Virginia Independent Farmers and Consumers Association has a list of sources. Other states may have similar organizations. Both farmers and some supermarkets will also be able to supply you with meaty bones, a source for much needed calcium and cartilage.

I Am Not A Poodle!

The nutritional information provided on this website has been thoroughly researched and practiced daily with our own very precious Bichon Frise – we have seen fantastic improvements in Maggie’s health with the organic raw food diet we advocate. However, we do advise you to take responsibility for educating yourself further on this topic before making changes in your dog’s diet. We are not responsible for any misinterpretation of the information offered here.

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Dog picture taken by Adam Comerford.

Does your Bichon Frise eat grass when he/she’s not feeling well? Ever wonder why? The experts don’t know for sure. They think it might be that they like the taste or they eat it in order to vomit. Probably both are right, but there are other more important reasons why.

Most people aren’t aware that throughout history indigenous peoples and all mammals have turned to grasses and green plants to recover from illnesses. Green plants are green because they contain high amounts of chlorophyll. And what does chlorophyll do for the body?

*inactivates pathogenic bacteria and fungi

*neutralizes toxins, purifying the body

*enriches the blood (chlorophyll and hemoglobin are nearly identical)

*contains a rich mixture of vitamins, minerals, proteins, fatty and nucleic acids, and nutrients to strengthen the immune system and prevent premature aging.

*provides large amounts of digestive enzymes

As you can see from this listing, it pretty well covers what your Bicon Frise needs to stay healthy. And if there are pathogens or toxins in the stomach making your dog sick and not wanting to eat, it becomes obvious why he/she will attempt to find some grass.

To help your Bichon Frise, whether it’s a tummy-ache or preventively building health, keep several sources of “wonder” green powders on hand. Chlorophyll, spirulina, wheatgrass, barley grass, and chlorella are all available on the Internet or in health food stores. They can be sprinkled on or in your Bichon’s food or, if he/she is not eating, you can add a bit of water and administer the remedy with a medicine syringe available at pet stores. Considering all of the health benefits of greens, you may want to join your Bichon Frise and try some yourself!

The nutritional information provided on this website has been thoroughly researched and practiced daily with our own very precious Bichon- we have seen fantastic improvements in Maggie’s health with the organic raw food diet we advocate. However, we do advise you to take responsibility for educating yourself further on this topic before making changes in your dog’s diet. We are not responsible for any misinterpretation of the information offered here.

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Jackson knows how to sit, shake a paw, down, roll over and stand up. He’s only 4 1/2 months old.

Here is a few pictures from around Christmas i put together of my dog. Please note, on the last picture it is his bath day, not that he isn’t cared for.

Bichon Frise is a wonderful breed of dog. They are cute, cuddly and easy to get around. The issue of Bichon Frise care however is one that you have to take seriously into consideration before deciding to get one of these dogs yourself. Because they have such a long and unique coat they require daily coat care, including brushing, trimming and bathing.

There are many other breeds of dog that are not nearly as high maintenance, and so if you are a very busy person or just don’t consider yourself as having the commitment to put this much time and care towards your pet, then it is going to be a good idea for you to choose another breed. The Bichon Frise is not only a great family pet but a reliable little watchdog as well, and so as long as you know that you are going to be willing and able to give them the attention and care that they need, then they would make an ideal pet for you.

When it comes to Bichon Frise care, there are quite a few different things that you need to be concerned with. One of the most important is bathing. These dogs require regular bathing, once to twice a week at least. Cleaning their teeth and gums is also very important, especially since they are a breed of dog that is very prone to gum infection and tartar buildup. You can do the basic cleanings yourself but you may want to take the dog to the veterinarian for more thorough cleanings.

Bichon Frise dogs tend to stain around their eyes so it is important that you always keep this area clean. You want to make sure that their ears are always clean and free of dirt and mites, and if you are too uncomfortable to do this yourself then remember that you can always bring them to the veterinarian and have them do it for you. You will of course have to pay a fee for these services but it will be worth it as long as you know that you will be able to get it done and without worrying about hurting your dog.

Bichon Frise nutrition is obviously very important, and something that you definitely have to be aware of, before you choose to get one of these dogs. They, like all other dog breeds, require good nutrition to maintain good health. High quality commercially made dog foods can supply the basic nutritional needs, but your dog may not like the food. A good alternative is to make your own fresh dog food. By searching the Internet you can find very specific dog foods recipes that your dog will love. You will have peace of mind knowing exactly what your dog is eating and that his nutritional needs are being met.

As long as you groom your dog regularly and give them enough attention, they will grow up to be happy and healthy dogs. Also make sure that you train them properly, because this will also be important in regards to their temperament and behavior. You want to socialize them early so that they will know how to interact properly with others, not only other people but other dogs as well.

The Bichon Frise is a small breed of dog, similar in size to a large cat, which in French means “curly lap dog”. They are called this because in the past they were lap dogs for French royalty. Often devoted to their masters, Bichons are popular pets and are fairly similar to poodles.

Originating in the Mediterranean region and in existence since the Middle Ages, Bichons eventually ended up on the streets after the French Revolution in which their royal masters were dethroned. The dogs were then caught and trained to do tricks so that they would become dogs in the circus. Despite often being used as a dog for companionship, Bichons are also versatile and smart. Recently farmers in Norway have even used Bichons for rounding up sheep.

Bichons weigh between 7 and 18 lbs and stand between 9 to 12 inches tall. Their average lifespan is 12 to 14 years. Bichons are nearly completely white, as to be a pure bred Bichon one must be at least 90% white. The dogs sometimes have different shades of white around the ears, but white is the dominant color of Bichons.

Their eyes are usually either black or dark brown. The area around the eye is also very dark. The nose and lips are also black, while the ears are droopy and covered with long hair. The coat of a Bichon is curly, making them look puffy. The underbelly of a Bichon is softer and denser than the outer coat. A Bichon’s coat is thick and springs back in place if touched.

Bichons, who tend to not like the heat, must be groomed often to keep their neat appearance. The face is of special notice, as mucus and eye discharge can cause major problems as it tends to get in the fur right near their eyes. Their curled tails go over their backs and are often groomed to be longer in length than the rest of the coat.

Bichons tend to look attentive and soft. They are quite intelligent and present a curious personality. Though Bichons most like to stay close to their owners and lounge around, they are energetic and like to chew on bones, climb furniture and go for long walks. Bichons are easily excited when seeing other people, but they are really friendly dogs.

Bichons are great pets for families, as children and Bichons tend to be fond of each other. Though Bichons can become jealous when it comes to attention, they get along alright with other dogs. Male Bichons are usually easier to train than females.

All-white breeds tend to suffer from ear infections and skin problems, but the Bichon Frise is less prone than other all-white breeds. The dogs can suffer problems with cataracts and luxating patellas though.

Though some people can still be allergic to Bichons, it is less likely that most other breeds of dog. Since they do not shed their fur, Bichons are quite popular to people with allergies as they are of a hypoallergenic breed.

Let’s face it — Bichon Frises are adorable, incredibly appealing, white fluffy show-stoppers with a delightful, almost human-like personality! They love to play, and make loyal companions, having a strong desire to interact with their caretakers. It sounds like a dog for everyone — right? Not really.

Bichon Frises are not the pet for parents who do not have a lot of time to devote to their dog, who do not have patience to clean up varying numbers of “accidents” during training, and who want a trouble-free bill of health. These animals need and thrive on loving attention whether it’s throwing a ball, playing with them and their toys, including them on your errands, giving them massages, or talking with them. That means having time available for them.

They are not usually quickly housebroken. A few evidently never are able to achieve this.

So the parent of a Bichon Frise should not expect perfection in toilet training, but should encourage the dog whenever possible. Health problems can be more prevalent in this breed, especially joint, digestive, and skin issues. Thus it becomes important to make sure their diet is very nourishing and illnesses are promptly attended to.

In view of the above, what describes a prospective parent of a Bichon Frise? First and most important, being loving and keyed into meeting the emotional and physical needs of the dog. And secondly, having patience and understanding when the dog makes mistakes, and not demanding or expecting perfection in him or her: If you show a relaxed, positive, and sensitive approach to parenting. Your efforts will be amply rewarded!

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Belle, a six year old Bichon Frise, is the world’s second smartest dog (of course, your dog is the smartest). She knows her right from left (most of the time), and is very sweet and friendly. And you’ve got to see her roll! Belle is an Alabama dog, as you might guess from her accent!

My dog will do anything to go for a walk, lay down, talk, roll over, sit even if I don’t ask him to. he gets ballistic when you say the magic word “WALK”. If sometimes we’re talking and said the word by mistake he gets crazy. I cannot even play this video when he’s around!

The Bichon Frise is a pure breed that originated in the Mediterranean region. This curly lap dog descended from a mix of the Barbet breed, poodle and a generic white lap dog. As early as 600 B.C. Spanish sailors used the breed, which at the time was referred to as the Barbichon, during trade to help with diplomacy. The dog had a naturally outgoing and friendly disposition, which made the breed incredibly likeable and effective in building relationships.

The attractive and friendly Barbichon’s name was shortened to Bichon and later had Frise added by the French to reference the breed’s soft, curly fur. The Bichon Frise was popular in the French royal family during the Renaissance. Its popularity spread throughout Europe, to Australia and then to the United States in the 1930s to 1970s. Two breeders in the U.S helped the breed become registered by the American Kennel Club in 1973. A Bichon breeder must meet specific AKC breed standards to register dogs in competition.

Because the defining characteristic of the Bichon Frise is its white, curly coat, breeders try to retain that characteristic. The American Kennel Club only allows less than ten percent of the fur to be off-white. Often the ears, tear stains around the eyes, and the muzzle are off-white or even apricot in color, which is acceptable. Bichon Frise fur is hypoallergenic. It must be groomed regularly to maintain its luster and fluffiness.

Bichon Frise has brown or black eyes, a black mouth and nose, and pendulous, furry ears. The breed is prone to allergies even though the fur is hypoallergenic to humans. The ears are prone to ear mites. A breeder must make sure dogs for use in AKC competition meet all the breed standard characteristics. Purebred dogs have two coats of fur consisting of a dense undercoat and curly topcoat. They are seven to twelve pounds in weight, are nine to twelve inches in height and have a friendly, confident, intelligent and bold personality.

Bichon Frise buyers should attempt to find a reputable breeder. There are a number of questions that should be asked to distinguish between good and bad Bichon Frise breeders. Buyers also want to make sure that breeders ask them questions.

Buyers should ask the following questions of breeders: Do you have your own kennel? (A good breeder will maintain his/her own clean kennel.) Can I visit the kennel/meet the parents of the puppy? (This should be encouraged.) Have puppies and parents been screened for genetic defects? Will I receive registration papers, pedigree, and medical records? (Yes to all.) Can you tell me the history of the breed? (Breeders should be experts.) Are you affiliated with rescue centers? Can you tell me how to care for my Bichon Frise? Is there a warranty? (A good breeder will want the dog returned to them rather than sold.) There are many other questions that can be asked but these are a good start to finding a good breeder.

Casper the 2 months old bichon frise puppy

Dog picture taken by Wedding Photography by Jon Day.

We begin this article with the basic facts about the breed, then follow up with an in-depth look at their personality.

Breed group: Non-sporting

Weight: 7-12 lbs

Height: 9.5-11.5 inches

Overview

The Bichon Frise is a cross between the Poodle and the Barbet Water Spaniel, and made its first appearance during the 14th century. The Bichon was traded by Spanish sailors traded the Bichon, and during the 16th century they became a firm favourite of the French royal courts. These dogs were circus performers and very popular organ grinder’s dogs. Today they are primarily show and companion dogs.

Temperament

The Bichon Frise has a very sweet, lively, bouncy and active temperament. They are very fond of playing, and will have erratic bursts of liveliness that will lead them into many unfamiliar adventures. This is usually outside of the yard, or when they are off the leash. This breed is very playful and friendly toward strangers – they also make excellent watchdogs. The Bichon Frise is one of the very few smaller dogs that get along very well with children. You will find that these dogs are very care free, and that they get along well with other dogs and animals. They are however very sensitive and they like to cuddle up one a member of their family’s lap. The Bichon Frise is a very independent dog that is also highly intelligent. They show a lot of affection toward others and they are also very confident and charming.

Care

The Bichon Frise is a dog that requires a lot of maintenance, and should be brushed often and bathed once a month. It is recommended that they are groomed by a professional every 4 weeks. The hair around their ears and eyes should also be trimmed with a pair of blunt scissors – it is also advised that their eyes should be cleaned to prevent staining. Electric clippers should be used to trim the body of the dog, but a scissor should still be used to trim the rest of the dog. The Bichon does not shed a lot of hair, and is therefore ideal for those suffering from allergies.

Training

The Bichon Frise is a very intelligent dog, but they are fairly difficult to housebreak. They are slow to grow up, and they males are usually somewhat easier to train than females. Crate is recommended for the Bichon Frise, and it is vital that the training should be conducted in a consistent and patient manner. These dogs will do well with obedience and agility training, especially if it is started at a young age. The Bichon Frise flourish when they can socialise, and they are very fond of performing tricks.

Health problems

Some of these dogs tend to suffer from watery eyes, cataracts, skin and ear ailments, epilepsy and also dislocated kneecaps. The Bichon Frise is very sensitive to flea bites.

My Pet dog Mitzi Bichon Frise Mitzi is 7 years doing tricks please look at all the Vids about the Dogs

The Bichon Frise (pronounced ‘Bee-Shone Freeze’) is a curly all-white dog with a puffball appearance and a very puffy head. It has been around since the 1300’s, and throughout their history they have been popular among Italian sailors, the Italian and French royal courts, and eventually with French street performers. Their name ‘Bichon Frise’ is in reference to their curly white coat.

Their diverse history of human companionship is proof of the Bichon Frise’s easy going temperament. These Non-Sporting dogs are independent, gallant, and full of energy. The Bichon loves people and is happiest when he is in his owners company. However, the Bichon Frise is also friendly to strangers, adores playing with children and doesn’t mind other family pets.

The Bichon is intelligent and is easy to train. By nature, he is a natural worker, which is why he got along well with street performers and made a wonderful circus dog once upon a time. This also means that the Bichon can be quite the little clown and enjoys learning tricks.

As was previously mentioned, the Bichon Frise is covered from head to tail in a curly white coat. His coat does not shed, making him a great companion for those who suffer from allergies. Nonetheless, the coat of the Bichon needs daily brushing to keep it free from mats. He will also need a monthly bath, and will require a full coat clipping every few months.

Since the Bichon’s coat gives him such a fluffy appearance, you may be surprised to learn that he isn’t as large as he may appear. For instance, the height of the Bichon Frise only reaches 12 inches and they weigh between 7 ‘ 12 pounds.

It is important to keep a Bichon in trim shape to avoid the possibility of him becoming overweight. This is best achieved by feeding him a sufficient diet and providing him with significant exercise. Because of his size, and the fact that they can happily live in an apartment, one may think that the Bichon does not need too much exercise. This couldn’t be further from the truth. The Bichon Frise enjoys being active and likes talking long walks and the freedom to run around in the open.

Those interested in the Bichon Frise will discover that he is a long lived companion with an average life expectancy of 15 years or more. Bichons have a few hereditary problems such as cataracts, ear ailments, knee dislocation and epilepsy. Nonetheless, the Bichon is still one of the more healthy breeds available today.

The Bichon Frise will become miserable if left along frequently. He loves to be included in the activities of his family and owner as much as possible. Human companionship is what makes the Bichon a happy go lucky canine and the best friend you could ask for.

Dog picture taken by Al_HikesAZ.