Bichon Frise
The Very glamorous pure white Bichon Frise is thought to have originated in the Mediterranean area where it has probably been known since the Middle Ages. Happy, lively little dogs, their temperment is friendly and outgoing and this breed likes to be the centre of attention, becoming an integral part of the family unit. The dark, alert eyes are full of expression, the nose is black, soft and shiny, and the hair accentuates the rounded appearance of the head. A generous amount of grooming is needed to maintain the soft, corkscrew curls of the coat in tip-top condition and the Bichon can be presented untrimmed or may have the muzzle and feet slightly tidied up. Height is from 23-28cm (9-11inches) and weight from 3-6kg (7-12lb). Dark pigment is desirable under the white coat, but up to the age of 18 months cream of apricot markings are acceptable.
Cavalier King Charles
The origin of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, goes back several centuries but it was only in 1928 that the breed was seperated from the slightly smaller, shorter-nosed King Charles. One of the many joys of this popular breed is in its varied colouring: black and tan, ruby (which is a rich red), Blenheim (with rich chestnut markings on pearly white), and tri-colour combining black, white and tan. The coat is long and silky, free from curl with plenty of feathering and it should be totally free from trimming. This absolutely fearless breed of little spaniel is gay, friendly and not aggressive in any way, but it is also sporting and affectionate, making an ideal and very popular companion, always seeming to show pleasure by a constantly wagging tail. Also good with children, the Cavalier is easy to care for and weighs from 5.4 - 8.1kg (12-18lbs), its height generally being 31-33cm (12-13in.)
West Highland White Terrier
A highly popular representative of this group is the West Highland White Terrier, fondly known as the Westie, and believed to have come from Argyll in Scotland. The breed seems to have been developed in the 1880s from a strain of white and cream coloured cairns, the lightest colours having been selectively bred to create this breed. Along with the Scottish Terrier, the “Westie” is well known through an advertisement for Scotch whisky.
Full of self-esteem, this hardy, active and game little dog has a varminty appearance with dark eyes, small, erect ears and jauntily carried tail. The breed is alert, courageous and self-reliant, but makes a friendly and charming companion. Needing regular attention, the white coat is double, with an outer coat of long hair and a short soft undercoat resembling fur. Height is approximately 28cm (11 in) and weight is usually between 7-10 kg (15 – 22lb)