biggest dogs in the world

 Bichon Frise

small breed dogs Bichon Frise

TYPE

Non-sporting

WEIGHT

10-16 lb

HEIGHT

9.5-11.5"

FAMILY

Barbican, Water Dog

AREA OF ORIGIN

Mediterranean area

DATE OF ORIGIN

Ancient times

OTHER NAMES

Bichon Tenerife, Bichon a Poil Frise

The striking powder-puff appearance of the Bichon derives from a double coat, with a soft dense undercoat and coarser, curly outercoat, causing the coat to face off the body and even spring back when patted. this is often a merry, agile breed with an easy and efficient gait. The Bichons looks and fitness makes this sturdy Canis Minor a well-liked family addition. The soft, inquisitive expression enables this breed to worm its way into many hearts and laps.

History

small breed dogs *Bichon Frise*

The Bichon Frise has roots within the Mediterranean, originally produced by crossing the Barbet (a large water dog) with small coated, often white dogs. This cross eventually produced a family of dogs referred to as barbicans, which was later shortened to bichons. The bichons were divided into four types: the Maltaise, Bolognese, Havanese, and Tenerife. The Tenerife, considered to be one among the sources of the Bichon Frise, developed on the Canary Island of Tenerife, probably having been taken there by Spanish seafarers in past. within the fourteenth century, Italian sailors brought these dogs back from the island to the Continent, where they quickly became favored pets of the upper crust.

Following a series of French invasions of Italy within the 1500s, the small dogs (known there as Bolognese) were adopted by the French. They were special pets of Francis I and his successor, Henry III. They also enjoyed popularity in Spain, except for some reason, the breed's popularity waned throughout Europe. The Bichon experienced a quick resurgence during the reign of Napoleon III within the early nineteenth century, but once more quickly faded from favor. This began a replacement chapter within the Bichons history because the breed sank from court favorite to common street dog. The Bichons survived, however, due to their propensity for performing tricks, and that they teamed with peddlers and organ grinders to entertain passersby for money.

With the arrival of war I, the small dogs was nearly lost. a couple of dogs were brought back home by soldiers, but no real effort to save lots of the Bichon was made until a couple of French breeders began an earnest effort to determine the breed. In 1933, the FCI adopted a breed standard and officially named it the Bichon Frise. The breed was threatened again, this point by war II. it had been not until it came to America within the 1950s that its future became secure. Even then, the breed didn't catch on until recommended grooming was updated and it received greater publicity within the 1960s. The breed suddenly started catching attention and was recognized by the AKC in 1971.

Temperament

small breed dogs *Bichon Frise*

Perky, bouncy, and playful, the Bichon Fris's happy-go-lucky outlook is endearing to all or any. This dog is friendly toward strangers and other dogs and pets and is extremely good with children. Bichons are sensitive, responsive, and affectionate, as wanting to cuddle as they're to play. They don't wish to be left alone and may bark tons. Bichons are often hard to housetrain.

Upkeep

small breed dogs *Bichon Frise*

The Bichon is a lively dog that needs vigorous indoor games or, better, a romp within the yard or a brief walk on a leash daily. The white powderpuff coat needs brushing and brushing every other day, plus professional grooming monthly. This dog doesn't shed, but the loose hairs become entangled within the coat and my mat. Bichons could also be difficult to stay white in some areas.

Health

small breed dogs *Bichon Frise*

Major concerns: patellar luxation, Cushing's, allergies

Minor concerns: cataract, CHD

Occasionally seen: disease, Legg-Perthes

Suggested tests: hip, knee, eye, DNA for PRA

Life span: 1215 years