Thursday, May 22, 2008

Bichon Frise Information For Buyers

The Bichon Frise is a small dog breed that originated in the Mediterranean region as early as 600-300 B.C. Spanish sailors first utilized the breed, then known as the Barbichon, to accompany them on trade expeditions. The Barbichon was so naturally sociable that it made an excellent companion on long trips. The popularity of the breed spread as it was introduced to various countries.

Its name was shortened to Bichon over time and later was changed to Bichon Frise by the French. The name in French loosely means curly lap dog. In the Middle Ages, the Bichon Frise was the favorite dog of French royalty. It fell out of favor when it became commonplace but gained popularity when it was discovered that the dogs could be trained as circus performers. The Bichon Frise was famous for walking the tightrope in traveling circuses. The breed's popularity later spread to Australia and America and in 1973, the American Kennel Club (AKC) registered the Bichon Frise. The breed has traits of the poodle, the Barbet and a generic white lap dog. A good Bichon Frise breeder attempts to retain the breed standard traits.

A Bichon Frise breeder will retain the defining characteristic of the Bichon Frise, its white, curly coat. The American Kennel Club breed standard states that at least ninety percent of the coat must be pure white. The ears, areas around the eyes, and the muzzle may have cream or even apricot shadings, which is acceptable. Though Bichon Frise fur does not shed and is hypoallergenic to most people, Bichon Frise themselves are prone to skin allergies. It is important that these dogs be groomed often to keep allergies under control and to maintain the fur's overall volume and texture.

When not competing, fur can be trimmed in a closely cropped puppy cut which is much easier to maintain. Other breed standard traits include brown or black eyes, mouth and nose, pendulous, furry ears, furry tail curled over the back and a human expression. The Bichon Frise must be seven to twelve pounds in weight, nine to twelve inches in height, and have a friendly disposition.
Buyers must do their research before choosing a Bichon Frise breeder. Buyers should educate themselves on the history and breed standard characteristics so that they have a general idea of what to look for and what questions to ask the breeder. Unfortunately, there are illegitimate breeders working to sell fake Bichon Frise, or worse, unhealthy Bichon Frise, to make a profit from unsuspecting buyers. A good sign of a bad breeder is one who sells Bichon Frise to pet stores. No loving breeder would ship and sell puppies like merchandise to just any consumer. A second warning sign is if the breeder is reluctant, unwilling, or unable to provide proper information of the Bichon Frise such as pedigree, medical records, and registration papers. Finally, a bad breeder will not offer any guarantee on the dog's health or behavior.

Buyers must ask many questions to make sure they are getting a real purebred Bichon Frise. The Bichon Frise breeder, if legitimate, will also have questions for the buyer to make sure the Bichon Frise will be going to a loving, appropriate home.

A thorough knowledge of the history and breed standard traits is necessary to determine whether Bichon Frise breeders are selling real, purebred dogs. How to spot a fake Bichon Frise breeder and Bichon Frise information and history is provided in this article.

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