Finding Bichon Frise breeders

There are many attractive and popular purebred dog breeds registered by the American Kennel Club (AKC). The AKC registered the Bichon Frise, which in French loosely translates to curly lap dog, in 1973. Prior to the breed becoming popular in America, both the French and the Spanish loved it. The breed descended from a blend of poodle, Barbet, and white lap dog found in the Mediterranean region as far back as 600 B.C. Originally called the Barbichon, the breed accompanied Spanish sailors on trade missions. The dogs were loved for their intelligent, friendly and outgoing dispositions. 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.

Often the ears, tearstains around the eyes, and the muzzle are off-white or even apricot in color, which is acceptable. Bichon Frise fur is hypoallergenic. It must be groomed regularly to maintain its luster and fluffiness.

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.

Other things that reputable breeders are concerned with include providing a warranty/return policy, interviewing potential buyers to make sure the puppies are going to good homes, either run or are affiliated with animal rescue centers and can be considered to be experts on Bichon Frise information and educate buyers on the breed. Professional breeders do not breed parents with known medical conditions or behavioral problems and do not sell puppies to pet stores.

Asking the right questions can help the buyer ensure a good match for a Bichon Frise puppy and that they can provide a permanent home for the Bichon Frise. It is also imperative that the Bichon Frise breeder ask questions of the buyer to make sure the buyer's home is appropriate and that the buyer has adequate knowledge by which to care for the Bichon Frise.