Mediterranean Breeds - The Bichons

There are many mysteries in the world of dogs. From the entire species beginnings to the development of each breed. The origins of few dogs are known with exact certainty. Others can be pieced together by ancient writings or archaeological finds. And some are wrapped in the mists of legends.

One of the more fascinating locations for dog history lies in the Mediterranean. Two of the oldest groupings developed there. However, no one knows where their ancestors came from. These dogs are the small bichons and the primitive Mediterranean sighthounds. Neither is related, but both trace their roots throughout the islands in the region.

I have been updating the site and after researching both groups I thought I would compile my findings here. None of this information can be stated as fact, but it is the closest I have been able to come to a logical answer. Due to length I have split them into two posts, with today’s covering the bichons. The sighthounds will be covered next week.

The bichon family includes seven modern breeds of dogs that are recognized, the Bichon Frisé, Bolognese, Coton de Tuléar, Havanese, Löwchen, Maltese, and Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka. There is disagreement in some additions to this grouping, mainly the Löwchen and the Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka. Some experts believe the Löwchen is not part of the bichon family and many others (including most kennel clubs) do not yet recognize the Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka as a breed.

Since several of these breeds are not well known, let’s introduce each of them before further diving into their history as a whole.

Bichon Frisé

​The Bichon Frisé  has been popular throughout continental Europe for centuries. The FCI
​ lists both France and Belgium as its country of origin.​

​Bolognese

​Like the Bichon Frisé the Bolognese has been found in continental Europe for centuries. Its homeland is Italy where it is still a favorite companion.

​Coton de Tuléar

​The Coton de Tuléar hails from the African island of Madagascar.
​It is named for the port of Tuléar and the cotton-like texture of its coat.

​Havanese

​The Havanese is the only North American  bichon. Its homeland is the island of Cuba. Today it has one of the fastest growing registrations in the AKC.

Löwchen

Also known as the Little Lion Dog, the Löwchen's origins are a mystery. The FCI recognizes its country of origin as France; however its name is German.

​Maltese

​Known for its long flowing coat, the Maltese may be one of the oldest surviving breeds of dog and is likely the ancestor to the other bichons.

​Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka

​The newest of the bichons, the Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka is not currently recognized by any major kennel club. 

​As we begin this winding journey, it is important to remember that until a few hundred years ago none of the bichons were a breed as we know today. Historically few dogs have been isolated enough to breed true without direct human intervention. Geographically, the Mediterranean has been a trade route for thousands of years. Ancient civilizations have risen and fallen in this region. While in later centuries European explorers would traverse the islands. Therefore, it is probable most, if not all, of the bichons interbred throughout their early beginnings.

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