GROUP 1 - TOYS

Brief History
The Bichon Frise was extremely popular and much doted on in the times of French Royalty. Dogs resembling the breed appear in paintings of the 17^th and 18^th century in the company of Lords and Ladies. When the French Royalty fell from favour, so too did these little dogs. The aristocratic Bichon Frise became the people’s Bichon Frise, accompanying organ players and entertaining passers-by with his clown like antics and captivating expression. Almost wiped out during the First World War, it was only the dedication of those early breeders in France and Belgium that kept the breed alive. And how grateful are we today that they did.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime.

The average life span is 14 to 16 years.

Temperament
The Bichon Frise is a charismatic character in every respect; he can be a clown or a snuggle blanket.  He is the most comforting little dog to live with. They are happy to go for a walk or run, enjoy a game, or just chill out on your lap. They are one of the most affectionate and loving little dogs one could ever own. The Bichon is a character exuding love, happiness and joy.

General Breed Description
The Bichon is white dog with black pigmentation who stands about 27cms at the shoulder. When presented for show, they have a wonderful ‘powder puff’ appearance, being scissored in a rounded off shape all over. With their gorgeous head furnishings, dark sparking eyes and the intense black pigmentation of the nose and eye rims, they have the most appealing little faces. The plumed tail carried gracefully over their back is another breed characteristic.

Coat and Care Requirements
The Bichon Frise is a curly coated breed, which has minimal shedding, so require regular grooming.  The coat needs to be thoroughly brushed 2 to 3 times per week and bathed every week or so.  Owners need to be vigilant in ensuring nails are trimmed and ears and kept clean.  Another option is to visit a professional groomer

every 2 to 8 weeks, which would include the clipping and trimming of their coat.

Size
Height: 30cms or less.

Breed Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders it is recommended you enquire about the breed’s health and what health testing the breeder does. The Bichon Frise is generally a healthy breed, however health conditions do occur occasionally.  The Bichon Frise can be a little too active and injure themselves when jumping or twisting when running.

Suitability
The Bichon Frise is suitable for anyone who wants a fun and loving companion, provided you are prepared to do some regular work maintaining their coat. They are suitable for people with allergies as they are considered to be low allergy dogs, but if this is a concern for you, make sure you spend some time with a Bichon Frise to make sure he is suitable for you.

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs.  With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular, the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard:  https://dogsaustralia.org.au/breed/detail/17