Pets

A Bichon Frise (Its French for Curly lap dog) is a small dog about the same size as a cat. They are popular pets, similar in appearance and anture to a poodle. They hail from bichon family of dogs and are likely the best known of that family.

Appearance
Bichons weigh between 7 and 18 lb (3 to 8 kg) and stand 9 to 12 inches (23 to 30 cm) high. Their white fur is soft and curly adn requires regular grooming as like poodles they do not shed. Their tails are usually longer in length than with poodles and are carried curled over their backs. Black eyes, nose, and lips provide a striking contrast to the all-white fur. Often times, Bichons appear to be smiling.

Temperament
Bichons are intelligent and inquisitive. They are energetic and enjoy long walks, and general play. They are foremost companion animals, preferring to lounge on their owners lap. They may exhibit territorial or jealous behaviour(especially if their owner gives attention to another animal) but generally get along well with other dogs (especially other Bichons). Bichons are most friendly dogs and are easily excited when encountering people. They love kids, who generally love them back. They exhibit a trait called the "Bichon Buzz" - suddenly the Bichon will put its ears back, start growling and run feverishly around in obstacle-course fashion for a few moments. Owners usually think its hilarious, a big mad dog trapped in their little dog.

Health
Bichons seem immune to the skin problem that plague most white dogs and are generally very healthy. Rarely occurring are conditions such as luxating patellas and cataracts. They do not tolerate the heat well, so if you live ina warm client and keep a Bichon, keep its fur short. Bichons live an average of 12 to 14 years.

History
The breed has existed for over 700 years, though its exact origins are uncertain, though it is fairly clear that they originated in the Mediterranean region. Sailors had transported them to the island of Tenerife by the 14th century. They were bred as lap dogs for the French royalty and were a court favorites by the 15th century. The dogs ended up on the streets during the French Revolution, where they were caught and trained to be circus dogs.

They are a versatile, intelligent, and hardy dog despite popular use as a companion animal and lap dog. Farmers in Norway have recently used the Bichon for rounding up sheep, which is not a commonly mentioned breed use.(Editor?s note, I can just picture the sheep getting confused by the tiny "sheep" running around barking at them!)