| By :
Brent McCoy
The Bichon Frise (sometimes called the "Tenerife Dog" or "Bichon Tenerife" after the Canary Island they were first introduced to) is much like their French name suggests - a "curly white lap dog" - and is a popular pet that resembles a larger version of the Maltese. The breed first appeared in the 13th century, and was initially valued as items of trade and companions for Spanish sailors. Several of their more distinguishing features typically include their high level of friendliness, cheerful spirit and non-shedding coat that necessitates a high amount of grooming attention - which all help in making the Bichon Frise a fitting companion dog for families, allergy sufferers or apartment dwellers who are willing to commit to a high level of grooming. The Bichon Frise is renowned for their playful, cheerful and affectionate personality. They are characteristically friendly with visitors, which along with their small size often means they are unsuitable as a guard dog. The Bichon Frise is also accepted to be quite intelligent - placing equal 45th compared to other dogs based on their capability to learn obedience instructions. They are also recognized to be great with kids - which means they are highly suitable as a family pet. The Bichon Frise is very pleasant with other animals such as cats and other dogs. Grooming the Bichon Frise is an extremely demanding activity that requires a lot of patience or at least occasional attention from a professional dog groomer. They need a high amount of brushing each day and proper grooming to maintain a powder puff look every 4 to 5 weeks or whenever they need to ready for the dog show - though their hair may alternatively be clipped short in a "teddy bear" cut if they are primarily a house pet. The Bichon Frise doesn't need a large yard to give them room to run, and they are very suitable for living in an apartment so long as they are given adequate exercise. They prefer warmer weather, and can be less content in cold weather as their curly coat is not designed to protect against it - so they will need extra clothing to keep them warm during cooler months. The Bichon Frise benefits from endeavors that include playing games in the yard or at the local dog park. They have a fairly high quantity of energy and have a need for exercise every day in the manner of moderate to long daily walks to prevent behavior problems such as excessive barking. The Bichon Frise could be the perfect dog for a family, apartment dweller or allergy sufferer who has a lot of time to groom and look after a dog. They are well-matched for anybody that is eager to do (or pay for) a very high amount of grooming and allow time to provide them with positive, gentle training and patient housebreaking in addition to take them on moderate to long daily walks and present a very high sum of love and devotion - they don't like to be left on their own. Although they could be a little unsuitable for those who don't have the time or patience for a high amount of grooming, if you are able to meet this requirement as well as their need for attention and gentle loving care then the Bichon Frise possibly will make the best dog for you.
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