Genevieve Name for Bichon Frise

Named for the Counts of Altamira, a Spanish noble family who were significant patrons of the artist Francisco de Goya. Goya's portraits of the Altamira family sometimes included their small, Bichon-like dogs. This name is a deep and sophisticated reference to the breed's history within the highest circles of Spanish aristocracy and their role as subjects in fine art. It evokes a sense of grandeur, artistic legacy, and noble patronage, fitting for a breed that was once a living symbol of wealth and refinement.

A Spanish surname and title of nobility, meaning 'high view'. The family were prominent patrons of the arts in the 18th century.

Named after one of the oldest and most distinguished noble families in France, the House of Montmorency was prominent during the time of the Valois kings, when the Bichon's popularity soared. This name is steeped in French aristocratic history, placing the Bichon in the context of the powerful dukes and courtiers who would have admired and owned them. It suggests a lineage of utmost prestige and a life of refined luxury, a perfect reflection of the breed's status in the French Renaissance court.

The name of a prominent French noble family, derived from Montmorency in the Val-d'Oise département of France.

An ancient and regal name meaning 'manifestation of God', Theophania has been used by Byzantine empresses and European royalty. It is a name of ultimate grandeur and divine significance. For a Bichon Frise, it's a highly dramatic and elegant choice that reflects their history of being treated with almost religious devotion by their royal owners, like King Henry III. The name elevates their status from mere pet to a cherished, almost divine presence, a beautiful manifestation of joy and companionship.

From the Greek 'Theophanes', composed of 'theos' (god) and 'phainesthai' (to appear). The Feast of the Theophany (Epiphany) celebrates the manifestation of Christ.

A French literary name meaning 'little thing', famously from Victor Hugo's 'Les Misérables'. This name beautifully captures the Bichon's small, precious size. More profoundly, it reflects the breed's own 'misérable' turn of fortune after the French Revolution, when they went from being pampered royalty to common street dogs. Like the character Cosette, the Bichon breed endured hardship and was ultimately 'rescued' by fanciers who recognized their value, restoring them to a place of love and care.

A French name, likely invented by author Victor Hugo for his 1862 novel 'Les Misérables'. It may be derived from 'chosette', a diminutive of 'chose' ('thing').

This name is derived from the French verb 'bichonner', which means 'to pamper' or 'to make beautiful'. The verb itself was inspired by the lavish treatment of the Bichon Frise in the court of King Henry III. Naming a dog Bichonner is the ultimate tribute to their history as an object of adoration. It directly references the perfuming, beribboning, and constant attention they received, and connects this past to the extensive grooming their hypoallergenic double coat requires today to maintain its 'powder puff' look.

From the French verb 'bichonner', meaning 'to pamper', which arose in the 16th century due to the lavish care given to the Bichon breed in the French court.

Named after the Rococo artistic style, which flourished in France during the 18th century, characterized by elaborate ornamentation, soft colors, and playful themes. This name perfectly aligns with the Bichon's history and appearance. They were at the height of their popularity during this era, living accessories to the ornate fashions of the aristocracy. Their fluffy, white, highly-styled appearance is the canine equivalent of a Rococo design—intricate, light, and charmingly extravagant.

From the French 'rocaille', a style of ornament using shells and pebbles. The term was coined in the 19th century to describe the ornate style of the 18th century.

Named for François-Joseph Talma, the most famous French actor of the Napoleonic era and the French Revolution. This name connects the Bichon's dramatic fall from grace during the Revolution to the world of French theater. As the breed was transitioning from royal pet to street performer, Talma was revolutionizing the stage. The name suggests a flair for the dramatic, resilience in times of upheaval, and a commanding presence, all qualities the adaptable Bichon possesses in its own charming way.

The surname of the celebrated French actor François-Joseph Talma (1763–1826), a prominent figure of the French Revolution and Napoleonic era.

An Italian name meaning 'beautiful lady', Belladonna is a dramatic and elegant choice that honors the Bichon's history with the Italian nobility. Italian sailors were key to the breed's spread in Europe. The name reflects the extreme adoration they received, seen as the ultimate beautiful accessory for a noblewoman. The plant 'belladonna' has dark berries, a subtle link to the breed's striking dark eyes and points, which stand out against their white coat and are key to their expressive beauty.

From the Italian 'bella donna', meaning 'beautiful lady'. It is also the name of a poisonous plant, Atropa belladonna.