Bichon Frise History

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise first arrived on the scene in the 13th century. They are a  descendent of the Water Spaniel. Bichons are related to the Caniche and are descended from the Barbet breed or the Water-Spaniel breed.  Originally they were named the “Barichon” but later it was contracted to “Bichon”. Bichon Frises were then segregated into four different categories.

1. Bichon Maltais
2. Bichon  Bolognais
3. Bichon Havanais
4. Bichon Teneriffe

All the categories of Bichon originated from the Mediterranean area. Bichon Frises were keep as valuable companions and often were used to barter. Bichon Frise were traded among Spanish sailors then transported from continent to continent.

Then in the 13th century italian sailors brought the small breed on their sea trips. Italian sailor are credited with returning the Bichon Frise to the Italy. Quickly the Bichon Frise became great favorites with Italian nobility. During the era most dogs were often cut into the “lion cut” style including the Bichon.

The Bichon Frise breed became a favorite in the 16th century French royal courts. Bichon Frises were  favored by painters of the Spanish school.  Often you will see Bichon Frises included in Spanish art work.

Bichon have also been used as circus dog because of there cute looks and eagerness to learn tricks.

Bichon Frise Tempermant

Bichon Frise

Unlike most smaller dogs the Bichon Frise is not a yappy dog breed.  The adore human companions and that white fluffy fur makes for the ultimate lap warmer. Bichon frise are intelligent making them pretty easy to train whether for show or fun. They are a smaller breed of dog that lacks no courage. Bichons can be as bold as a German Shepherd if need be.

Cons to owning a Bichon Frise:

• Housebreaking: Bichon Frises can be difficult to housebreak if not trained correctly
• Separation anxiety:  Since the Bichon breed is so social it becomes almost dependent on humans. This makes for a dog breed that does not do well when left for long periods
• Barking:  Some times when left alone a Bichon Frise can start to become very barky especially when paired with poor training.

Pros to owning a Bichon Frise:

• Is small but sturdy
• Is playful, but doesn’t need much outdoor exercise (though he enjoys it!)
• Has a curly coat that doesn’t shed (one of the best breeds for allergy sufferers)
• Makes an alert watchdog, but is not aggressive
• Is good with other pets

When a Bichon Frise glides by you will immediately notice it’s sturdy little legs trotting with grace. Owner claim that their dogs are constantly smiling with happiness. Naturally they are social making them great family dogs even with children.

The sweet nature combined with the medium size means they can travel well with out the worry of fast overheating that you see in other smaller breeds such as the yorkie. This breed can be competitive making them a favorite breed for showing.  They can even become watchdogs!