Shichon

The Bichon Frise is a small, compact, and sturdy toy breed that presents a distinctive powder-puff appearance. Standing just under twelve inches at the shoulder and weighing between seven and twelve pounds, this breed exhibits a well-balanced frame with medium bone structure that never appears coarse or overly fine. The body is slightly longer than it is tall, creating a rectangular silhouette, while the plumed tail is carried gracefully curved over the back. The head is proportionate to the body with a slightly rounded skull and a moderately pronounced stop leading to a blunt muzzle. The coat is the breed's most distinguishing feature, consisting of a unique double-layered structure that creates the signature fluffy look. The soft, dense undercoat combines with a coarser, curlier outer coat to produce a plush texture similar to velvet. When properly groomed, the coat springs back when patted and stands away from the body, creating an overall rounded silhouette. The standard color is pure white, though puppies under one year may display slight shadings of cream, buff, or apricot around the ears or on the body. The coat typically measures three to four inches in length and forms distinctive features including a rounded head shape and flowing ear furnishings. The face features large, round, dark brown or black eyes set to look directly forward, conveying an alert and curious expression. The nose is always black and prominent, providing striking contrast against the white coat. The ears are dropped and covered with long, flowing hair that blends seamlessly into the neck coat. The breed's black eye rims, nose, and lips create the characteristic dark points that enhance their expressive appearance. Their movement is free and effortless, with the forelegs and hind legs extending equally in a smooth, precise trot.

The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy companion dog with a distinctive appearance that reflects its ancient Chinese heritage. Standing between nine and ten-and-a-half inches at the shoulder and weighing nine to sixteen pounds, this breed presents a compact, well-balanced silhouette that is slightly longer than it is tall. The overall impression is one of substance without coarseness, displaying a proud carriage with the head held high and the heavily plumed tail carried in a graceful curve over the back. The body is solid and well-proportioned with a deep chest and level topline. The head is one of the breed's most distinctive features, appearing round and broad with a short, square muzzle that gives the face a chrysanthemum-like appearance when viewed from the front. The eyes are large, dark, and prominent, set wide apart and conveying a warm, trusting expression. A notable characteristic is the undershot bite, which is required by the breed standard. The ears are large with long leather, set slightly below the crown of the skull, and covered in abundant hair that blends into the neck coat. The nose is always black, positioned at or slightly below eye level, though liver-colored dogs may have liver noses. The coat is the Shih Tzu's crowning glory, consisting of a luxurious double layer that is long, flowing, and dense. The outer coat is long and silky, while the undercoat provides insulation and volume. The hair grows in all directions on the face, creating the characteristic chrysanthemum pattern, with a distinct fall over the eyes and a full beard and whiskers. The coat accepts virtually any color, with white blazes on the forehead and white tail tips considered highly desirable in parti-colored specimens. When properly maintained, the coat flows to floor length, though many pet owners prefer shorter utility clips for easier maintenance.