Dog's Name & Age:
Coco Age 2 years
In a Word, My Bichon Frise Is…
A princess
Best Characteristics of the Breed
Non-shedding, very quiet, rarely barks, small but not fragile, no moods
Most Challenging Characteristics of the Breed
Requires haircuts every 6-8 weeks; likes to have companionship
When, Where and How I Got My Bichon Frise
Purchased from a family. Coco is a Bichon /Maltese cross. She was 8 weeks old when we brought her home. We were able to view both parents when we purchased her.
I highly recommend this breed for families with someone that is home full time or as a companion to an elderly person.
I'd Describe My Dog As…
A loyal friend. I did not want a dog, however, my husband and teen aged children were adamant. I agreed, but only if they promised to walk her daily. (Two years later, my kids and husband still walk her evert day) I didn't pay much attention to her when she was little, but she has won over my heart. She loves us so much and I can't imagine life without her. What a turn around. She was easy to train - once dogs smell other dog urine outside, they will naturally pee outisde. Walk them frequently - every few hours - and get a dog in the spring or early summer. It is easier to train them when the weather is nice. No medical problems with our dog.
She is not a morning dog - she will sleep as long as my teenagers !! We have to almost drag her out of bed for her morning walk! As a puppy, she found a "fluffy" pillow that we had on our couch. She cried for it - and now it is "her" pillow. She will suck on it and fall asleep. Kind of like a soother for her! She understands about 15-20 words/phrases. She does not require too much exercise - a walk for a few blocks twice a day is all.
Advice
- Introduce your dog to many people and many different situations when they are a puppy. This will prevent them from being "skiddish" or shy. Nothing worse than a dog that pees when a visitor pets them!
- Our dog does not require a leash when we walk her - because she is always out with us and has learned to listen to us. It took a bit of training, but was worth it! We are her masters. We can take her anywhere without worry.
- Our dog only barks when the doorbell rings - and not for long. She is not "yappy"
- She weighs approx. 14 lbs. and is probably a little overweight.
- Life expectancy - 15 years
