Bichon Frise
A Bichon Frisé (French, literally Curly lap dog; often spelled Bichon Frise in English) is a small breed of dog. They are popular pets, similar to poodles. They are often devoted to their masters. They also have a common fondness of licking their owners.
Appearance
Color - Almost completely white, sometimes with cream, apricot or buff shadings usually around the ears. At least 90% must be white in a purebred Bichon for show. At least 50% must be white in a Bichon Puppy for show. Color fades during the first year of life. During this time the coat also changes from puppy fluff to frise.
Face - Expression should be alert, soft, inquisitive. The eyes are usually very dark, either black or dark brown. The skin surrounding the eye is also very dark. The nose and lips are always black. The ears are drop and covered in long, flowing hair.
Coat - The undercoat is soft and dense while the outercoat is curly, giving it a powderpuff look. The coat feels thick and should spring back if touched.
Muscle-The muscle tone is of exceptional quality, especially the lower thighs and buttocks area.
History
Bichons originate in the Mediterranean region (possibly the Canary Islands), and were bred as lap dogs for the French royalty. They were originally called the Bichon Tenerife. The dogs ended up on the streets during the French Revolution, where they were caught and trained to be circus dogs. But their earliest orgins are traced to the African subcontinent.