| The Bichon Frise is a pure breed that originated in the | | | | throughout Europe, to Australia and then to the United |
| Mediterranean region. This curly lap dog descended | | | | States in the 1930s to 1970s. Two breeders in the U.S |
| from a mix of the Barbet breed, poodle and a generic | | | | helped the breed become registered by the American |
| white lap dog. As early as 600 B.C. Spanish sailors | | | | Kennel Club in 1973. A Bichon breeder must meet |
| used the breed, which at the time was referred to as | | | | specific AKC breed standards to register dogs in |
| the Barbichon, during trade to help with diplomacy. The | | | | competition. |
| dog had a naturally outgoing and friendly disposition, | | | | Because the defining characteristic of the Bichon Frise |
| which made the breed incredibly likeable and effective | | | | is its white, curly coat, breeders try to retain that |
| in building relationships. | | | | characteristic. The American Kennel Club only allows |
| The attractive and friendly Barbichon's name was | | | | less than ten percent of the fur to be off-white. Often |
| shortened to Bichon and later had Frise added by the | | | | the ears, tear stains around the eyes, and the muzzle |
| French to reference the breed's soft, curly fur. The | | | | are off-white or even apricot in color, which is |
| Bichon Frise was popular in the French royal family | | | | acceptable. Bichon Frise fur is hypoallergenic. It must be |
| during the Renaissance. Its popularity spread | | | | groomed regularly to maintain its luster and fluffiness. |