The Bichon Frise is a pure breed that originated in the Mediterranean region. This curly lap dog descended from a mix of the Barbet breed, poodle and a generic white lap dog. As early as 600 B.C. Spanish sailors used the breed, which at the time was referred to as the Barbichon, during trade to help with diplomacy. The dog had a naturally outgoing and friendly disposition, which made the breed incredibly likeable and effective in building relationships.

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 breeders in the U.S helped the breed become registered by the American Kennel Club in 1973. A Bichon breeder must meet specific AKC breed standards to register dogs in competition.

Because the defining characteristic of the Bichon Frise is its white, curly coat, breeders try to retain that characteristic. The American Kennel Club only allows less than ten percent of the fur to be off-white. Often the ears, tear stains 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.

Bichon Frise has brown or black eyes, a black mouth and nose, and pendulous, furry ears. The breed is prone to allergies even though the fur is hypoallergenic to humans. The ears are prone to ear mites. A breeder must make sure dogs for use in AKC competition meet all the breed standard characteristics. Purebred dogs have two coats of fur consisting of a dense undercoat and curly topcoat. They are seven to twelve pounds in weight, are nine to twelve inches in height and have a friendly, confident, intelligent and bold personality.

Bichon Frise buyers should attempt to find a reputable breeder. There are a number of questions that should be asked to distinguish between good and bad Bichon Frise breeders. Buyers also want to make sure that breeders ask them questions.

Buyers should ask the following questions of breeders: Do you have your own kennel? (A good breeder will maintain his/her own clean kennel.) Can I visit the kennel/meet the parents of the puppy? (This should be encouraged.) Have puppies and parents been screened for genetic defects? Will I receive registration papers, pedigree, and medical records? (Yes to all.) Can you tell me the history of the breed? (Breeders should be experts.) Are you affiliated with rescue centers? Can you tell me how to care for my Bichon Frise? Is there a warranty? (A good breeder will want the dog returned to them rather than sold.) There are many other questions that can be asked but these are a good start to finding a good breeder.