The bichon frise dog is a social animal but is it right for you
The Bichon Frise Is A Natural Social Bug
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.
