The dogs, mostly Bichon Frise crosses, King Charles Cavaliers and Shih Tzus, included puppies and mature dogs.

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The Briard, Bichon Frise and Newfoundland are related, according to the AKC.

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Already assured a place in the best-of-seven final ring at America's premier dog competition were an American foxhound, an affenpinscher, an old English sheepdog and a bichon frise.

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Also in the best-of-seven final ring were a German wirehaired pointer ranked as the nation's No. 1 show dog, an American foxhound, a Portuguese water dog, a bichon frise and a smooth fox terrier.

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