Bichon Frise Information and Facts For The Would-Be Owner

Bichon frise information and facts may not have been collected for centuries, but this breed has been around since before the medieval period. Throughout his history, this particular canine has experienced it all. He has known the glory of being a royal pet to Spanish, Italian and French nobles, and has had the pleasure of being recognized as a "common dog", popular among street performers and taking part in the circus.

Today, this pooch, recognized as part of the Non-Sporting or Gun Dog group, is celebrated for being a wonderful family pet that is sweet, bold and energetic. His friendly temperament makes him a very social pooch and accepting of children, other pets and strangers. However, to give you a better idea of what this spunky cotton ball is all about, the following are other general bichon frise information and facts that may interest a potential owner:

General appearance - Bichon's look like little white puffballs; they have very fluffy, soft and wavy white coats. Their heads have a distinct round appearance. They also have large, round, friendly dark eyes that feature back rims and dark haloes.

Size - On average this breed weighs between 10 - 18 pounds when fully grown, and stands 9 - 12 inches at the withers.

Temperament - The frise is easy going, friendly and can be quite a clown at times. He is bold and brave and though not a guard dog his alert bark makes a wonderful watchdog. However, despite his happy-go-lucky nature, he can be very stubborn when it comes to training, and he is notorious for being slow to housebreak.

Acceptable living space - The bichon-frise is happy in any type of home. He can comfortably live in a small apartment space, in a home, or on a farm.

Exercise - Based on the bichon frise information and facts that have been gathered about exercise requirements, while this dog can be quite energetic, he does not typically require vigorous exercising outdoors or long walks, as he tends to waste most of his energy indoors. Nevertheless, you should take your dog for at least two 15 minute walks per day, and allow him to enjoy the backyard in addition to playtime.

Compatibility with other pets and children - This pooch enjoys the company of children and is a wonderful playmate even to young kids. However, it is important that children are supervised, and know how to properly play and respect the dog. After all, even the nicest dog in the world will only put up with so much abuse, even if unintentional, from children. That being said, he also gets along well other dogs and non-dog domestic pets.

Grooming - Bichon frise information and facts in relation to coat care is important. This is because while he is a low shedding dog, great for allergy sufferers, his hair needs daily care to prevent mats, and their eyes are prone to a discharge that can stain their fur, which means they too must be cleaned everyday. The coat will also requite monthly clippings and washings.

Health issues - This pooch is relatively healthy, but is susceptible to skin, eye, ear and knee problems. Some are also prone to epilepsy. Care should be taken to protect this canine from extreme elements as he is vulnerable to the cold, heat stroke and sunburn.

Life span - 12 - 15 years is the average lifespan of the bichon breed.

Hopefully, with the help of the above bichon frise information and facts, you now have a better idea of what this breed is about and whether or not he is the right fit for you and your family.