Bichon Frisé
Alternative names
Bichon à poil fries
Country of origin
Belgium / France
Classification
FCI: Group 9 Section 1 AKC: Non-sporting ANKC: Group 1 (Toys) CKC: Group 6 - Non-Sporting Dogs KC(UK): Toy NZKC: Toy UKC: Companion Breeds
Breed standards (external links)
FCI, AKC, ANKC, CKC KC(UK), NZKC, UKC

A Bichon Frisé (French, literally Curly lap dog; often spelled Bichon Frise in English) is a small dog that is the size of a large cat. They are popular pets, similar to poodles. They have a lot of energy and enjoy licking people, climbing on furniture, and chewing on things. They can be seriously, almost worshipfully devoted to their masters.

Bichons originate in the Mediterranean region, and were bred as lap dogs for the French royalty. The dogs ended up on the streets during the French Revolution, where they were caught and trained to be circus dogs.

Care must be taken to keep the face of a Bichon Frisé clean and trimmed, as eye discharge and mucus tend to accumulate in the fur that grows in front of their eyes, which can lead to serious problems.

They have curly fur that can be puffed up if groomed correctly, and their tails curl over their back.