Expert: Georgia - 4/16/2001

Question
I'm considering owning this type but don't know anything about their temperment. Are they a one man dog? Do they get along with other dogs? I have a Lab and a Jack Russell. I'm looking for a lap dog that will spend all his/her time with me, at work and at home.Our Lab is an outdoor dog and the Jack Russell is in love with my husband. Oh,I own an Art Gallery so the dog would have to be people friendly. Thanks for your time.                                              Jean Huckins  

Answer
Well, the major thing with these little dogs is grooming. Do you have the money to get the dog groomed every 4-6 weeks? If so then you will also have to put in time in between grooming sessions as well. If you have a Bichon in a traditional trim, it will need grooming daily to prevent matting in the coat. If you are prepared to do this daily, then a Bichon sounds like a perfect dog for you. It is a very friendly dog who definitely enjoys people and sitting on laps. If you are going to get a puppy, take it to puppy training so it gets used to people and other dogs from an early age. Sterilisation at 6 months is also a must for a pet dog. The puppy should start going to the groomers as early as 6 weeks to get used to being groomed.
Let me know if you get one and feel free to ask any other questions you may have.