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When I was approached to write a book about our breed I realised that there had been no British book for many years and the breed had come a long way since the last one was published. It was now the fourth most popular breed in the toy group.

I could see the value of a book that would take the new puppy owner through the mine-field of do's and don'ts of just choosing a puppy.

There was also the need of a publication that might also cover many of the other subjects such as breeding, choosing a stud dog, whelping a litter and caring for the puppies. All aspects of caring for your bichon is discussed from feeding to trimming the coat yourself. If you are already involved in the breed and wish to show your dog there are chapters that cover this and will help you to make the right choices before you start.

For the more seasoned exhibitor, deciding when to judge is a subject rarely discussed beyond basic etiquette and "what to wear". Here I have tried to cover more than actual ring procedure. I also hope to encourage the reader to decide for themselves first if they have the necessary character to cope with the decision making involved when judging. It is not always enough to judge just because one has been invited to do so.

I hope any reader will find this book thought provoking as well as instructional especially in some areas such as exhibiting and breeding.

color="#8080FF">This photo is me with Glory Be at Bobander winning the CCand BOB at Richmond Ch Show . Judge Mr Michael Coad (Pamplona)

I was determined to avoid the trap, as so often happens with this type of book, of giving the impression to the reader that my kennel was the only one worth mentioning. A whole chapter has been devoted to the countries prominent breeders, many written by themselves, giving a unique insight into the development of some of our top kennels and their dogs. It has been the efforts of all these breeders that has made the Bichon Frise the success that it is today.

I hope you have the opportunity to read it and I should be very interested to hear your comments. Please e-mail me, or make your comments in my guest book

It is available at most good book shops or through Amazon.co.uk, use the link below to see what other readers have thought and to order your own copy

The publishers too have a site where you may purchase it alongside a huge other range of text books...its well worth a visit

To obtain your copy, check out Amazon

or direct from the Crowood site

Brenda Ellis of *Our Dogs* writes:~~

I think the cover picture on this book probably sums up the book itself. It is a lovely picture of a bichon and it's a lovely book, well put together and well presented with some excellent diagrams and photographs.

It starts with a history of the breed, followed by a really thorough interpretation of the breed standard. The chapter on choosing a puppy and all that this involves for seller and buyer is well worth reading. Grooming and presentation is expertly explained as you would expect from someone who presents bichons as well as Chris does.

The actual business of showing is gone into most thoroughly and will be very useful for newer people in the breed. Ailments and diseases are sensibly explained with no attempt made to exaggerate hereditary problems. A great number of breeders involved in the breed for a long time are mentioned and the successes they have had both breeding and showing under their affixes written about. There are also interesting pieces about the Bichon scene in other countries, so the world-wide scene is covered.

I find the book most informative and pleasing to the eye. Pet owners, new people in the breed and established breeders will all find something of interest here.

It is amazing however long you have been in dogs you can always learn something by reading.

Brenda Ellis

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