Bichon Frise roughly translates as “curly coated lapdog,” and it’s not pronounced “bitchn’ frisbee,” but as BEE-shawn free-ZAY. Just saying.
Bichons are yet another breed descended from the Barbet (from which came the Bichon’s original name of “Barbichon” which was later shortened to “Bichon”), and one of its biggest fans was Henry III who carried a basket tied around his neck to hold his beloved Bichons. Unhappy when separated from his dog, Henry found a way to make sure they were always with him. Who was going to challenge the King of England? Fact is, French kings and their ladies also carried their Bichons in tray like baskets attached around their necks by ribbons. Louis XIV is also said to have designated the breed as the court ” Pet of Choice” reputedly because the dogs were easy to carry around.
“Patio Pal” by Lyn Hamer Cook – DogArtByLyn