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History
The precise origins of this dog are not known, although it is believed that it originates from the Mediterranean regions. It is thought that these little dogs were first discovered by the Spanish who introduced the Bichon to the Canary Island of Teneriffe.
In the 14th century the little dog was re-discovered by Italian sailors who returned it back to Europe, where it became very popular with the Italian nobility. The Bichon was first heard of in France during the reign of Francis I in the Renaissance period (1515-1547), but its greatest success was during the reign of Henry III (1547-1589) where the dog was perfumed, pampered and generally trimmed ‘lion style’.
The word ‘Bichon’, meaning curly lap dog, has been shortened from the word ‘Barbichon’ relating to its ancestors, the Barbet or Water Spaniel. It also goes under the name Teneriffe Dog.
This animal has always been bred as a pet. It was not recognised by the British and American kennel clubs until the 1970’s.
The Bichon Frise as a pet
The Bichon Frise has a wonderful temperament. It makes a delightful companion and household pet. It is easy to train. It loves children and is good with other dogs. These dogs do, however, need to be groomed on a regular basis. |
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Height:
23-30cms
Weight:
3-6kg
Lifespan:
14 years |
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Colour:
Color is white, may have shadings of buff, cream or apricot around the ears or on the body. |
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Coat:
Fine and silky with soft corkscrew curls. |
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Click photo for product guide |
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Lawrence Slicker
Small Tender Care
The classic soft slicker brush. Light aluminium construction with cushioned pad for gentle grooming.
Made in England |
Sterling price: £3.00
Dollar price: $4.35 |
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Lawrence Shedder
Small
Serrated stainless steel blade effectively removes loose and dead hair.
Made in England |
Sterling price: £4.50
Dollar price: $6.52 |
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Spratts Comb
No. 73
15mm fine tooth comb. Made from solid brass with heavy duty chrome plating. Made in Sheffield, England |
Sterling price: £6.50
Dollar price: $9.42 |
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Grooming your Bichon Frise
The coat requires daily grooming. It also requires bathing on a regular basis in order to keep its snowy white colour and overall powder puff appearance. The texture of the coat is very important. The undercoat should have a soft, dense texture, whilst the top coat should be of a coarser and curlier nature, so that when patted the coat will spring back into shape.
The coat requires occasional trimming. This should be done so as to reveal the natural outline of the body, but should never be trimmed too severely. The head, ears, moustache, beard, and tail are to be left longer, and the head itself should be trimmed to create an overall rounded impression, similar to that of a powder puff.
Tools required: Small and medium fine pinned slicker brush, comb and scissors.
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