Bichon Frise and Lhasa Apso
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise dates back as far as the 13th century, they are descendants of the Poodle and the Barbet Water Spaniel. The breed was traded across the world by Spanish sailors and eventually became popular with the French Royal Courts in the 16th century. In the 19th century it was common for a Bichon Frise to appear as an organ grinder’s companion or as a circus performer.
Temperament: The Bichon Frise is a fluffy white dog which is content in human company, they love everyone! They are independent, intelligent and affectionate whilst bold and lively. They have a very happy temperament and are at their best when they are with their families; this breed is particularly sociable with other pets and excellent around children. If you are your dog’s superior, i.e. calm and assertive, they will be a very stable and a trustworthy dog.
Colours: White & Apricot, White & Buff, White & Cream, White.
Build: The Bichon Frise is a little dog that weighs approximately 5–10 kg (10–20 lbs.) and stands 23–30 cm (9–12 in) at the withers. However, slightly larger dogs are not unusual.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso originated in Tibet hundreds of years ago. Its namesake is the sacred city of Lhasa. The breed is famous for its roles as watch dogs in monasteries and temples. The Lhasa Apso was considered sacred and lucky to their owners. The dogs started to spread to other parts of the world in 1933 after C. Suydam Cutting gave the Lhasas as gifts to the USA from the Dalai Lama. The dogs first appeared in the UK in the 1920’s.
Temperament: This is an intelligent breed which has both a friendly and assertive manner. The Lhasa Apso makes a very good pet. They are very affectionate, spirited dogs who are devoted to their masters. Good watchdogs, they have a keen sense of hearing and respond well to training. Like many small dogs, they need to have human leaders. Behavioural problems can be induced by human conduct; a well-trained and exercised dog will have a fantastic personality and not display any abnormal traits.
Colours: Sandy, Brown, Black, Honey, Dark Grizzle, Golden, Tri.
Build: Male Lhasa Apsos should preferably be 10.75 inches (27.3 cm) at the withers and weigh about 14.5 to 19 pounds (6.5 to 8.5 kg). The females should weigh between 12 to 14 pounds (5.4 to 6.4 kg).
NB. The above is only a guide for your information; colours and size may differ from stated.
