Bichon Frise

Sailors frequently used these small dogs as items of barter during Mediterranean trading voyages throughout the 14th century.

Their hair grows continuously rather than shedding out making regular professional grooming essential to prevent painful matting.

King Henry III of France loved his Bichons so much that he famously carried them everywhere in a small basket suspended from his neck.

The Bichon Frise's name means 'curly lap dog' in French.