Finding Bichon Frise Breeders
No commentsThe Mediterranean region is the point of origin for the dog breed now known as the Bichon Frise. In 600-300 B.C., Spanish sailors used this breed, then known as the Barbichon, to create diplomacy with other countries during trade missions. The Barbichon was naturally friendly and outgoing and had an attractive appearance. The popularity of the breed spread as it was introduced to various countries.
The attractive and friendly Barbichon’s name was shortened to Bichon and later had Frise added by the French to reference the breed’s soft, curly fur. The Bichon Frise was popular in the French royal family during the Renaissance. Its popularity spread throughout Europe, to Australia and then to the United States in the 1930s to 1970s. Two Bichon Frise breeders in the U.S helped the breed become registered by the American Kennel Club in 1973. A Bichon Frise breeder must meet specific AKC breed standards to register dogs in competition.
This adorable and personable dog is believed to be a mix of poodle, generic white lap dog and Barbet. It has traits of all three. The AKC has defined specific characteristics Bichon Frise must have to be a part of AKC competition. A good Bichon Frise breeder attempts to retain the breed standard traits.
A Bichon Frise breeder recognizes and attempts to retain the breed standard characteristics with the fur being the first priority. Personality is also important. Per the American Kennel Club, Bichon Frise are always friendly and outgoing. They are also intelligent and hyper. The “Bichon Frise blitz” is a phrase describing the breed’s tendency to become excited and race around in circles in a burst of energy.
Because of the importance of the breed’s appearance and personality, the Bichon Frise requires high maintenance. These dogs must be brushed regularly and groomed and professionally trimmed every three months. The hyperactive nature and high activity level of the breed may not make them suitable for all owners. A plus of the Bichon Frise is that its fur is hypoallergenic. However, the dogs themselves suffer from many allergies.
Before the buyer interviews a Bichon Frise breeder he or she should ask a few questions of himself. The first question is why the buyer wants a Bichon Frise. The second is whether he or she can meet the needs of a Bichon Frise. If a buyer finds that they truly want this breed and is prepared to care for it, questions can then be asked of the Bichon Frise breeder.
A Bichon Frise buyer needs to ask a Bichon Frise breeder what they know about the breed. History, common medical and behavioral conditions, and care and grooming should all be explained. The breeder should be an expert on the breed and should be able to answer all the buyer’s questions. The buyer should ask for copies of pedigree, registration papers, immunizations records and medical records.
Questions to ask Bichon Frise breeders include: May I meet the parents/puppy before purchase? Can you teach me how to care for my Bichon Frise? What is the history of the Bichon Frise? What are common health problems specific to Bichon Frise? Can I buy a rescued Bichon Frise instead? Will you provide pedigree and registration papers? Do you offer a warranty? Can I return the Bichon Frise if I can’t keep it?
Monday, May 26th, 2008 at 10:58 am and is filed under Dog. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
