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The Bichon Frise is known as a friendly and playful dog that is rarely aggressive. These charming dogs are intelligent and easy to train as well. They have white coats that look puffy and fluffy. Their confidence is expressed in their prancing and lively strides. Although not generally, aggressive in nature, these dogs do make fairly good watchdogs and will alert their owners of intruders. These dogs love to be the focus of attention and make lively and amusing companions as well as great family pets. In order to be happy dogs, they need to interact with people on a regular basis. They are very gentle around children and may be taught to do tricks to entertain them as well.
To care for these dogs, the owner must brush their long silky coats each day with a soft bristle brush. If proper and extensive care is not given to the coats of these dogs, they may get into a matted and tangled mess in a very short time. Bichon Frise dogs have very soft hair that will fall naturally into curls. It is usually cut in a manner that follows the contours of the dog’s body and brushed out to form a cotton ball appearance. It is also important to keep the hair around the eyes and ears trimmed back using blunt nosed scissors. Dry shampoo should only be used when necessary and these dogs should be bathed about once a month or so. Professional grooming is recommended for this dog breed on a monthly basis. Owners may eliminate staining of the hair around the eyes by cleaning around them meticulously.
Bichon Frises are basically healthy dogs. However, some animals may suffer from epilepsy or dislocated kneecaps. Eye problems may also plague these dogs as they have a tendency to get cataracts and blocked tear ducts. Eye care is very important with these dogs. Sometimes these dogs are difficult to housebreak, as are other small breed dogs. These dogs are particularly sensitive to flea bites as well.
As active as they are, Bichon Frises do not require much additional exercise but they do love to go for walks. Most of these dogs meet their physical exertion needs by their romping and playing. They do not require any special dietary needs.
Since these dogs are quite small when fully grown, they are ideal for apartment, condominium or home living. Male dogs reach a height of about 9-12 inches (25-30 cm) and a weight of 7-12 pounds (3-5 kg). Female dogs average to be just a bit smaller in some cases and slightly lighter in weight. The life expectancy of this dog breed is approximately 15 years and some dogs may live longer.
Bichon Frises became popular with French royalty in the sixteenth century. The name comes from the French words bichon (which means lapdog) and frise (which means curly). This dog breed is thought to have originated in the Canary Islands and was once called the Tenneriffe. It is believed that French and Belgian sailors may have brought them back to Europe upon their return from military service.
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