Bichon Frise

Book excerpt: This Comprehensive Owner's Guide to the Bichon Frise serves as a complete introduction to this perfect"powder puff" of a pretty pet! The Bichon Frise, recognized around the world for his perfectly coiffed pure white coat, is an affectionate companion for the whole family. Beyond being pretty, he is sturdy, adaptable, highly trainable, and eager to compete. The breed excels at dog shows, obedience and agility trials, and as therapy dogs. Mapping the spread of the bichon-type dogs around Europe, the opening chapter of this volume connects the white fluffy dots;from the Bichon Frise (of France) and its relatives, the Lowchen (also of France), the Coton de Tulear of Madagascar, the Bolognese of Italy, and the Havanese of Cuba. The author traces the Bichon Frise's development in England and the US, where its familiar appearance was historically scissored.The book continues with chapters on characteristics and the breed standard encapsulating all of the virtues of the Bichon, offering sound advice about which owners are best suited to the breed.New owners will welcome the well-prepared chapter on finding a breeder and selecting a healthy, sound puppy. Chapters on puppy-proofing the home and yard, purchasing the right supplies for the puppy as well as house-training, feeding, and grooming are brimming with detail and illustrated with handsome adults and puppies. In all, there are over 135 photographs in this compact, useful, and reliable volume. The author's advice on obedience training will help readers better mold and train their dogs into the most socialized, well-mannered good canine citizens. The extensive chapter on healthcare provides accurate information on selecting a qualified veterinarian, vaccinations, parasites, infectious diseases, and more. Sidebars throughout the text offer helpful hints, covering topics as diverse as vaccines, toxic plants, first aid, crate training, carsickness, fussy eaters, and more. Fully indexed.