How to spot a fake Bichon Frise breeder

The Bichon Frise is a small dog breed that originated in the Mediterranean region as early as 600-300 B.C. Spanish sailors first utilized the breed, then known as the Barbichon, to accompany them on trade expeditions. The Barbichon was so naturally sociable that it made an excellent companion on long trips. The popularity of the breed spread as it was introduced to various countries. Its name was shortened to Bichon over time and later was changed to Bichon Frise by the French. The name in French loosely means curly lap dog. In the Middle Ages, the Bichon Frise was the favorite dog of French royalty. It fell out of favor when it became commonplace but gained popularity when it was discovered that the dogs could be trained as circus performers.

A good Bichon Frise breeder is an expert on the history of the breed as well as breed standard characteristics.

A Bichon Frise breeder will retain the defining characteristic of the Bichon Frise, its white, curly coat. The American Kennel Club breed standard states that at least ninety percent of the coat must be pure white. The ears, areas around the eyes, and the muzzle may have cream or even apricot shadings, which is acceptable. Though Bichon Frise fur does not shed and is hypoallergenic to most people, Bichon Frise themselves are prone to skin allergies. It is important that these dogs be groomed often to keep allergies under control and to maintain the fur's overall volume and texture.

When dogs are not competing, fur is cropped in a shorter puppy cut which requires less maintenance. A Bichon Frise breeder should be able to educate potential buyers of breed standard characteristics as well as how to maintain and groom Bichon Frise. One important trait to note is that Bichon Frise fur is hypoallergenic to humans, however the Bichon Frise suffers from many skin, eye and ear allergies.

Buyers must do their research before choosing a Bichon Frise breeder. Buyers should educate themselves on the history and breed standard characteristics so that they have a general idea of what to look for and what questions to ask the breeder. Unfortunately, there are illegitimate breeders working to sell fake Bichon Frise, or worse, unhealthy Bichon Frise, to make a profit from unsuspecting buyers. A good sign of a bad breeder is one who sells Bichon Frise to pet stores.

Other questionable practices include a breeder that will not allow buyer to meet puppies or their parents prior to purchase, sells to pet stores, the prices seem either too low or too high, has too many puppies available at one time, and offers overnight or next day puppies while shipping puppies all over the country. In puppy mills the puppies have never been socialized and are not comfortable around people or other animals.

Buyers must ask many questions to make sure they are getting a real purebred Bichon Frise. The Bichon Frise breeder, if legitimate, will also have questions for the buyer to make sure the Bichon Frise will be going to a loving, appropriate home.