Dog's Name & Age:
Elton John - was two months short of 15 years of age when he died in June'0
In a Word, My Bichon Frise Is…
THE BEST companion and watchdog
Best Characteristics of the Breed
Loving, good companion, always seems to be smiling
Most Challenging Characteristics of the Breed
Housebreaking
When, Where and How I Got My Bichon Frise
I bought little Elton when he was four months old from a private breeder (who became his groomer). He was a wonderful dog, who might have been smothered with his little dog bed by ex-husband when he was just a pup because he "was making too much noise." I walked into the room just in time and told my ex that he would regret his actions if I ever caught him doing what he was doing again. Long story short, I left my husband and was living alone with Elton for six years before I met and married my current husband. Elton always jumped on my bed at night and faced the door, ready to "protect" me at all times.
I'd Describe My Dog As…
He was housebroken when I bought him at 4 months. He was a snuggler and a great guard dog, always going to the apartment window to let me know that someone was coming by the front door.
Within the year before he died, Elton developed congestive heart failure. But, I have no complaints! Other than "rust", a stain from his tear ducts that is common with the breed, I did not have large vet bills. I treated the "rust" with Tylon, which is a powder that I put 1/2 tsp. in his water daily and which reduced the "oozing".
Advice
- I believe any dog needs to be trained to be around small children, since little ones do not know that they might be irritating the dog just by what they are doing.
- I believe that the Bichon Frise is a wonderful breed for anyone who wants loving companionship and happiness that comes with the breed.
