Finding Bichon Frise Breeders

The Mediterranean region is the point of origin for the dog breed now known as the Bichon Frise. In 600-300 B.C., Spanish sailors used this breed, then known as the Barbichon, to create diplomacy with other countries during trade missions. The Barbichon was naturally friendly and outgoing and had an attractive appearance. The popularity of the breed spread as it was introduced to various countries.

Its name was shortened to Bichon and later, expanded when the French added Frise to the name in reference to the breed's defining characteristic, its curly, soft fur coat. Four types of Bichon Frise existed as Bichon Frise breeders began to breed the dogs in Australia and America. In 1973, the American Kennel Club (AKC) registered the Bichon Frise in the non-sporting group. This adorable and personable dog is believed to be a mix of poodle, generic white lap dog and Barbet. It has traits of all three. The AKC has defined specific characteristics Bichon Frise must have to be a part of AKC competition. A good Bichon Frise breeder attempts to retain the breed standard traits.

The American Kennel Club's breed standard for Bichon Frise to participate in AKC competition is as follows: a double coat of fur consisting of a dense undercoat and curly topcoat, between seven and twelve pounds in weight, between nine and twelve inches in height, a friendly, alert, and charming disposition, all white fur with less than ten percent being less than pure white, a black mouth and brown or black eyes and groomed according to AKC standard.

Competition Bichon Frise must be groomed or professionally trimmed every three months. When not competing, fur can be kept in a shorter puppy cut which requires less maintenance. The full volume look used in competition requires daily brushing. Every Bichon Frise breeder, along with retaining breed standard characteristics, must be aware of the health issues prone to Bichon Frise. For example, though Bichon Frise fur is hypoallergenic to most people, the Bichon Frise suffers from many allergies of the ears, eyes and skin. A good Bichon Frise breeder will explain the breeds' positive and negative traits to buyers prior to purchase.
Some signs of a reputable Bichon Frise breeder include well-maintained kennels, the puppies are comfortable around people and other animals, both the puppies and parents have been screened for genetic defects, availability of medical records, pedigree, and registration papers. Other things that reputable breeders are concerned with include providing a warranty/return policy, interviewing potential buyers to make sure the puppies are going to good homes, either run or are affiliated with animal rescue centers and can be considered to be experts on Bichon Frise information and educate buyers on the breed. Professional breeders do not breed parents with known medical conditions or behavioral problems and do not sell puppies to pet stores.

Questions to ask Bichon Frise breeders include: May I meet the parents/puppy before purchase? Can you teach me how to care for my Bichon Frise? What is the history of the Bichon Frise? What are common health problems specific to Bichon Frise? Can I buy a rescued Bichon Frise instead? Will you provide pedigree and registration papers? Do you offer a warranty? Can I return the Bichon Frise if I can't keep it?

Legitimate Bichon Frise breeders interview buyers to ensure they are a good match for their puppies. Questions to ask a breeder and some general Bichon Frise information is provided in this article.