K-9 LifeSavers

The name Bichon Frise is translated from French to mean curly white lap dog, and it's an apt description for these popular companion dogs.

The Bichon descended from the Water Spaniel and the Standard Poodle and had such a merry disposition, they were taken along on travels and often used as by sailors to barter with as they moved across continents. Sailors are credited for bringing the Bichon to both Spain and Italy, and it is said that they still love water today because of their ancestors that traveled across the seas. The breed was popular with nobility throughout Europe and flourished during the Renaissance after being featured by artists such as Francisco de Goya.

The Bichon did not come to the United States until 1955, and it was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1973.  The AKC calls the Bichon merry and cheerful and the breed standard calls for a dog that is "gentle mannered, sensitive, playful and affectionate." 

Bichon enthusiasts have also become fond of the "Bichon Buzz" or "Bichon Blitz," a sudden burst of energy during which the Bichon will start running frantically at full speed throughout and is almost always accompanied by constant growling and barking.  The buzz can last anywhere from 30 seconds to 5 minutes, and may happen at anytime in the day.  Owners are often entertained by where the dog will go, as the path may include stairs, couches, and a full circuit of your house, following which he'll lay down to sleep.

Bichons do well in obedience training if it's started early and maintained.  They are also on the list of "hypoallergenic" dogs as the curl in their hair helps prevent dander from escaping into the environment.