Bichon Frise [key], breed of small dog developed in France after World War I. It stands from 8 to 12 in. (20–30 cm) high at the shoulder and has a profuse, silky coat that is loosely curled. It is solid white or white with apricot, cream, or gray markings. A relative of the Maltese, the Bichon was first bred in the United States in the 1950s. It is exhibited in the miscellaneous class at dog shows sanctioned by the American Kennel Club. See dog.
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