Chinese Frise

The Bichon Frise is a small, sturdy toy breed that stands between 9.5 and 11.5 inches at the shoulder and typically weighs 12 to 18 pounds, presenting a more substantial build than many other toy breeds despite their fluffy appearance suggesting a larger size. These dogs are compact and well-proportioned with a slightly rounded body structure that appears square when properly groomed according to breed standards. The breed presents a square appearance when groomed, with the body length from chest to rump being approximately equal to the height from withers to ground. The overall impression is one of a solid, confident small dog with excellent balance, substance, and an unmistakable air of cheerful self-assurance. The signature characteristic of the Bichon Frise is its remarkable double coat that creates the breed's iconic powder puff appearance recognized worldwide. The outer coat consists of coarse, curly hair with a distinctive corkscrew texture that stands away from the body, while the soft, dense undercoat provides insulation and support for the outer coat's impressive volume. When properly groomed by skilled hands, the coat stands away from the body creating a rounded, cloud-like silhouette that is the hallmark of the breed's presentation. The coat color is predominantly white, though puppies may display slight shadings of buff, cream, or apricot around the ears or body that typically fade to pure white with maturity and are acceptable within breed standards. The head is proportionate to the body with a slightly rounded skull and a well-defined but not overly abrupt stop that creates a gentle transition between skull and muzzle. The dark, round eyes are set forward and surrounded by dark halos that accentuate their alert, curious expression and contribute to the breed's engaging face. Black nose and lips provide attractive contrast against the pristine white coat and add definition to the facial features. Ears are dropped, hanging close to the head, and covered with flowing hair that blends seamlessly into the body coat. The tail is set at back level, covered in profuse hair, and carried curved gracefully over the back, adding to the breed's cheerful, animated appearance during movement.

The Chinese Crested is a small, fine-boned toy breed that stands between 11 and 13 inches at the shoulder and typically weighs 5 to 12 pounds. This elegant breed features a slender yet surprisingly athletic build with a gracefully arched neck and a body that is slightly longer than it is tall, creating a balanced rectangular silhouette when viewed from the side. The head displays a distinctive apple-dome shape with a moderately long, tapering muzzle and large, erect ears set wide apart, giving the breed an alert, curious expression. One of the most notable physical features is the elongated hare feet with uniquely extended toes, which sets this breed apart from virtually all other toy dogs and contributes to their distinctive and somewhat exotic appearance. The Chinese Crested comes in two distinct coat varieties that can appear within the same litter due to a complex genetic interaction involving an incomplete dominant gene. The Hairless variety features smooth, soft skin with hair present only on specific areas including a flowing crest on the head extending down the neck, a plume on the tail, and feathery socks on the feet and lower legs. The Powderpuff variety is completely covered in a soft, silky double coat with a shorter undercoat that requires regular daily grooming to prevent matting and maintain its luxurious appearance. Coat colors are remarkably diverse, including black, apricot, chocolate, cream, blue, white, palomino, pink and slate, and various combinations with spots or solid patterns throughout. The skin of the Hairless variety has a unique texture similar to human skin and can range from pink to black or spotted, often changing shade with sun exposure and seasonal variations. This variety requires special care including sunscreen application in sunny weather to prevent painful sunburn and moisturizer to maintain skin health and prevent dryness or acne breakouts. The breed's refined appearance is enhanced by almond-shaped eyes that can range from dark brown to hazel depending on coat color, and the overall impression is one of exotic elegance combined with surprising athleticism despite the delicate appearance. The tail is long and slender, carried gaily when in motion and adding to the breed's graceful silhouette.