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| Please don't go out and buy a Bichon puppy because
you fell in love with JR while he was winning at Westminster!
JR is a gorgeous guy, but remember he's a show dog. The bichon that lives at your house won't look like him unless you spend hours every day grooming or spend the time and money to have him groomed, often. Bichons are hypoallergenic and do not shed. They are loving, gentle, funny, determined, outgoing, smart, conniving, and very attached to their owners. If you think you want to be owned by one of these delightful little dictators, please do a lot of research first, talk to people who live with a Bichon, and learn all the negative things about this breed, as well as the positive things. These little dogs make wonderful, loving pets, BUT, many of them are difficult to potty train, don't like to be left alone and say so by barking and chewing, are prone to skin problems, luxating patellas, bladder stones, separation anxiety, tear staining, and grooming can be a nightmare. And, oh yeah, they're expensive (range anywhere from $500 - $1,000 plus)! And the price will go up now after JR's big win. I will always have a Bichon! They are the most delightful little companions I have ever found and well worth any grooming or health needs. They don't have problems different from many other breeds, but those considering getting a Bichon should be aware of the whole picture. Like any breed, they don't stay beautiful on their own and don't train themselves. Bichons are very people oriented and must be with their owners. They are companion dogs in the most intensive way. There is nothing more wonderful than sharing your life with one of these little darlings, but if you don't want a companion for every day, don't get a Bichon. Bichons are very adaptable and will fit in with your lifestyle. They travel in cars, trucks, RVs, and airplanes, ride on horses, bicycles, tractors, and motorcycles, go camping, work as therapy dogs, sail on boats, ride in canoes, fly on gliders, live in hi-rise apartments, mobile homes, split-levels, and castles, thrive in the suburbs, rural areas, big cities, and on farms. They can be couch potatoes or sky divers. If you decide a Bichon is for you and you are willing to live your
life under the iron paw of a furry angel, PLEASE SEARCH OUT A REPUTABLE
BREEDER! DON'T BUY FROM A PET SHOP OR PUPPY MILL. Follow this
link to learn about the horrible conditions where many Bichons and other
breeds begin their lives.
Please be sure you are willing to expend the time, money, and effort required to give one of these little darlings a good home for 12-15 years BEFORE you go out and buy one. If the Bichon's your breed, you'll enjoy the most wonderful relationship you can imagine with one of God's most endearing creatures. For help in finding a reputable breeder:
Links for Bichon Frise information:
Books "This Is the Bichon Frise" by Joan Brearley
and Anna Nicholas
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