Blue Ridge Bichons 

 Here at Blue Ridge Bichons we raise two types of Bichons: Bichon Frise and Bichon Havanese. The term Bichon refers to a group of dog breeds whose distant ancestors are the same. They are all descended from an ancient breed of water spaniel similar to a poodle. During the 16th century bichons were dispersed over many parts of the world, and a number of distinct dog breeds were developed. Two of which were the Bichon Frise and the Bichon Havanese, which is usually shortened to just "Havanese". 

We raise a limited number of well-socialized puppies for pet/companion homes. We are looking for loving homes for our puppies where they will be a cherished family member. Our puppies are raised in our home with our 3 children, dogs, and one pampered house cat Puddin'. Our puppies are purebred AKC registered, we don't raise mixes. They will be up-to-date on their puppy vaccinations, wormed, and health guaranteed. 

We are located in Lenoir, North Carolina at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and are available by appointment. Please call 828-758-4063 or email tkgibbs@charter.net if interested in one of our puppies Shipping is available, weather permitting, and costs an additional $300.

Bichon Frise

 The name Bichon Frise says it all-it means "curly lap-dog" and that is what they are. Bichons are very friendly little dogs who get along well with children and other animals. They are very people-oriented and want to be with their human companions. They are very sensitive animals and respond well to love and positive reinforcement. They don't take well to hard-handed discipline. 

Bichon Frise are fluffy white dogs. Many times puppies will have buff or apricot markings on their head or ears that usually fade over time so the adults appear all white. They are usually between 9 1/2" adn 11 1/2" tall at the shoulders and usually weigh between 8 and 16 pounds. They are a small breed, not a tea-cup and contrary to some may say there is no "mini bichon:. The bichon doesn't shed and their hair grows continually so they do need frequent grooming. Brushing, bathing and a regular hair trim will keep the coat in good condition. Most owners prefer to take their dogs to a groomer at regular intervals to keep the coat nicely trimmed and easy to manage. This can also be done by the owner with a little practice and a good pair of trimmers.

Havanese      

During the 18th and 19th century bichons lived in homes of aristocratic Cubans. Today's Havanese was developed in Cuba in the 18th century. They are intelligent, playful and very devoted to their owners. Friendly and responsive, they are great dogs for obedience and agility work. They are easy to train and are great with children. They have the same wonderful temperament of the more familiar Bichon Frise but come in a wide range of colors and coat types. They are becoming very popular as more people become familiar with the breed.

The Havanese are a double-coated breed with hair ranging from straight to curly and found in all hair colors. No preference is given to one color over the other. Most pets are kept in a short companion dog cut, as the long show cuts can be difficult to maintain. Height ranges from 8 1/2" to 11 1/2" at the shoulder. They are generally long-lived with a life expectancy of around 14-15 yrs. They have an odorless, non-shedding coat. The Havanese became AKC recognized in 1999.