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Bichon vs Poodle – How is a Bichon Different Than a Poodle

Bichon Vs Poodle

Bichon vs Poodle

The origin of the Bichon Frisé

The Bichon Frisé comes from the ancestors of the poodle and the water spaniels or barbets. The first part of their name came about through the shortening of Barbichon’s name. This term is understood to mean 5 different Bichon breeds: the Maltese (Bichon Maltais), the Bolognese (Bichon Bolognais), the Havanese (Bichon Havanais), the Bichon Ténériffe (also Bichon Frisé) and the Löwchen (Petit Chien lion). 

Some dog lovers still call the Bichon Frisé Ténériffe today. In some dog books, the Bichon Frisé can also be found with this name, which is, however, considered outdated. Bichon vs Poodle

The history of the breed dates back to around 1500 AD. Spaniards are said to have brought these dogs to the Canary Islands by sailboat. There he was bred as a dog of the well-off people. 

French brought some copies to France as spoils of war. The breed spread there and found its way into the noble houses and hearts of Renaissance women. The Bichon Frisé became a salon dog that was adorned, pampered and perfumed. It was not until 1933 that the FCI issued a breed standard.

The Origin of the Poodle
A breed of French origin, the Poodle descends from the Barbet, from which it inherits the general 

appearance and ease of hunting in an aquatic environment. The Poodle was indeed used in duck hunting. The term Poodle was formerly used in the feminine to indicate the female of the Barbet. Gradually, he established himself as one of the best companion dogs thanks to his jovial and dynamic character. The

breed standard was established in1936.
Louis XVI also owned a Poodle. He was shorn like a lion. During the Second Empire, the Poodle saw its 

popularity explode, so much so that it had become the pet dog par excellence.

How does a Toy Poodle differ from a Bichon Frize?

It is no accident that these two races tend to be confused, they are really similar in several aspects. However, there are a few differences that we can take into account in case we want to be sure that it constitutes a Bichon or a Poodle.

Although both dogs share similar physical characteristics and are equally friendly and playful, there are a couple of notable differences that we can take into account, both with respect to their physique and their temperament.

Poodle Vs Bichón Frize

Let’s look at some of the main similarities and differences that these two races present.

Size and Physical

Regarding its physical proportions, we see that the size of a toy poodle is as long along the body as it is tall. A bichon frize is a quarter longer than its total height at the cross, giving it a longer body than a toy poodle at least.

The height of each dog breed is similar, comparing a toy poodle 10 inches or less tall and a bichon 9 1/2 to 11 inches tall at the cross. However, the bichon is usually a little taller and longer than the toy poodle, in most cases. 

Toy poodles have dark, oval eyes that are separated with an intelligent expression. Its ears are located just below eye level and are long and wide with a thick blur that hangs near the head.

The Bichons have round, dark eyes that are placed in the front of the skull and appear alert in their expressions. His droopy ears have long hair that reaches half the front of the snout when you extend them forward.

Fur and Color

The two races have a delicate and thick layer that requires day by daycare. Poodles and bichons are races that don’t lose hair and are likewise hypoallergenic.

In spite of the low shedding, the two breeds have high upkeep requirements for their hair layer and need to brush each day to keep the hide liberated from ties and healthy.Toy poodles have dense and curly hair with a naturally hard texture throughout the body. It hangs in long and tight curls that are more extensive in the head and in its ears, as well as a shorter mane in the puffs of the front legs, behind the back legs.

The pompom that can be seen in some cases in these dogs is due to the traditional cut that they usually make in the veterinary.

The bichon frize has a double coating with a soft and dense inner layer and an outer layer that is thick and curly, although softer than a poodle’s hair. Stroking a bichon is like touching a velvet with the fur jumping back after a good brushing.

The most important institutions recognize several colors of fur in the case of toy poodles, such as cream, apricot, coffee with milk, brown, silver, and gray in different shades.

Poodles with apricot or brown fur should have dark amber lips, nose, and eyes (perhaps varying in hue), while the other colors have a very defined black in these same parts with really dark eyes.

The bichon frise is mainly white, but it can have light cream-colored tones, however, no less than 80 percent of the color of your body should be completely white, if we are talking about a bichon of race.

Temperament

Known for their good temperament, Bichon Fries were bred to be companion dogs. While that is the current function of the toy poodle, originally the poodles were developed to participate in the hunting and recovery of birds in the water.

However out of place it may seem given to their little bodies, poodles can have a strong impulse and instinct for their “prey.”

Under the froufrou hairstyle and any accessory for dogs is a small but hard and disciplined dog.

Both races are dedicated to pleasing and fiddling with their people, but the bichon is more dependent than the poodle toy and more prone to suffer separation anxiety and it gets easily adapted to its surroundings, as compared to Poodle.

As the bichon usually loves everyone, regardless of size or species, they are more likely to get along with cats , children, and other dogs. While bichons are tiny bright dogs, the poodle is among the smartest dog breeds.

Training

Training the medium-sized Poodle will be easier, making it a perfect dog for first-time owners or for those who prefer an obedient dog. 

That means that a poodle is probably easier to train than a bichon frize, If you want to compete in any canine sport, such as agility, the toy poodle is a better option.

Given its origins, natural agility, and intelligence, the poodle is characterized by having more independence and easier to learn verbal commands or obey in general the orders of its owner. However, they also tend to have more character if we don’t train it from an early age.

Unlike the poodle, the bichon is usually more submissive, dependent, and attached to its owners. It is also obedient, although it may take a little longer to follow certain instructions. To train Bichon Frize , owners will need more patience and perseverance, and may even need to seek training centers.

The poodle is easily distracted but is more patient and focused if he receives the proper training.

Both races are ideal for the family, as well as for interacting with children, we just have to keep in mind that in the case of the poodle we must have more time and willingness to train and exercise it daily.

Behavior

Precisely when exhausted or left alone routinely, both the Poodle or Bichon Frise will show direct issues, for example, woofing, biting on things other than his chewable toys, scratching or tearing products and other unfortunate behavior issues.

Most canines will show offense and famous conduct when taken off alone with nothing to do. Bichons and Poodles are both neighborly dog breeds and need to contribute a large portion of the essentialness with their family.

Precisely when any friend hound is isolated and left alone, generally speaking, the pooch may receive misery or other mental issues as human friendship is vital for both of these breeds. Leaving the canine unattended will make him feel miserable and overlooked, which is a base of ruinous canine conduct more often than not.

Bichons are in like way famous for being hard to housetrain. However inconceivable outcomes are conceivable to accomplish, it might take some time before a Bichon Frise is absolutely housetrained.

Exercise/physical activity

Something that is not noticeable at first sight is that in the case of the poodle we can see a greater display of energy than in the case of the bichon. It requires more exercise and is a perfect dog for owners who enjoy sports and long walks, they will always have a partner at their side.

They are dogs with physical complexion and capacity suitable for swimming and intense activities. (hence its origins in the lakes and swamps of middle-aged Germany).

Medium Poodles love water and go for walks, but they are not demanding exercise but they will be happier and healthier if they are given the opportunity to play and run without a leash. The medium-sized Poodle retains its predatory instincts, has a lot of resistance and needs more activity than smaller varieties.
To prevent the weather, you have to give them two or three frugal meals a day instead of a copious one and it will be better to avoid exercise after meals.

Unlike the poodles that have always been a dog raised and domesticated for home life, a true companion dog. The Bichón Frize are very active dogs that spend the day playing and jumping so it is not necessary to perform an additional exercise. Anyway, these animals like walks and travel open spaces. They do not need a special diet.

Care/maintenance

It is very important to brush the hair of the Bichon Frize daily with a stiff barbed brush to make it sponge. Since its hair is thin, silky and curly it is usual to cut it with scissors following the contour of the animal’s body. To wash it, it is advisable to use a dry shampoo and bathe the dog once a month. To avoid staining the hair it is advisable to cut the fur around the eyes and ears and wash carefully.

You have to bathe the medium Poodle regularly and shear it every six to eight weeks. The medium Poodle’s hair can be brushed so that it looks more natural or sheared with haircuts that distinguish this breed. Traditional shearing was applied to reduce the weight of the mantle for swimming and protect the joints and chest from cold and spines. Teeth need tartar cleaning.

Life expectancy

Bichon Frize lives on average from 14 to 16 years, while Poodles have a slightly shorter life expectancy: from 12 to 14 years on average, but this is due to the three types that the poodle has as a breed.

Of course, in the case of a toy poodle, particularly its life expectancy can exceed 20 years in some cases!

Many factors can affect the lifespan of a Poodle or Bichon. The health, care, diet, lifestyle and other general factors of the dog play an important role in how long your pet can become.

Diseases and Health

It is a fairly resistant breed although some specimens suffer from epilepsy and dislocation of the patella. They can also suffer from eye problems such as cataracts (at an early age in some cases), and tear blockage, which can cause tearing that stains the dog’s white coat.

In the case of bichon, you may have a greater propensity to suffer certain specific conditions. As they are likely to have: allergies,  develop small “losses” in the bladder, cataracts (at an early age in some cases), patellar dislocation, greater sensitivity to vaccines, among others.

Regarding the poodle, this breed of dogs is long-lived but has many genetic diseases. Cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy can cause blindness, while allergies and skin conditions are common. The medium Poodle can suffer from hip dysplasia, cancer, and meteorism, Addison’s disease, bloating,  and epilepsy.

Types of Queue

The toy poodle carries its tail above its back in an erect way, like a proud pet with a flag.

Toy poodles have tailed tails that complement a balanced contour, although poodles that are not displayed dogs, may not have a tailed tail.

The bichon frize has a tail with lots of fringed hair that curves gently on its back. The length of the tail should be at least halfway across the cross when stretched.

Prices

It can depend on the hatchery itself, but at least in general terms, the poodle is usually more expensive than the bichon, in most cases.

To give a clear example, the average cost of a poodle tends to be three times that of a bichon. 

Comparison Table between the Two Breeds:

Origin/recognition and physical characteristics

Name Bichon Frize Poodle
Origin Spain, Belgium France, Germany
Group Companion Dogs Companion Dogs
Popularity Rank 46 7
Other names Bichon Frise, Tenerife Dog, Bichon A Poil Frise, Bichon Tenerife, Purebred Bichon French Poodle, Caniche, Barbone, Chien Canne, Grosse Pudel
Breed Type Purebred Purebred
AKC Group Recognized as a Non-Sporting breed in 1972 by the American Kennel Club. Recognized as a Non-Sporting & Toy breed by the American Kennel Club in 1887.
FCI Group  FCI has still not recognized them. FCI has Recognized them Poodle section, as companion and toy dogs group.
Breed Recognition American Canine Registry, Australian National Kennel Council, Internationale Kennel Club of Great Britain, National Kennel Club, American Kennel Club America’s Pet Registry, Canadian Kennel Club Dog Registry of America Inc., Federation Cynologique, North American Purebred Registry, Inc. American Canine Association Inc., Continental Kennel Club, New Zealand Kennel Club, United Kennel Club, The Bichon Frise Club Of America American Canine Registry, Australian National Kennel Council, Internationale Kennel Club of Great Britain, National Kennel Club, American Kennel Club America’s Pet Registry, Canadian Kennel Club Dog Registry of America Inc., Federation Cynologique, North American Purebred Registry, Inc. American Canine Association Inc., Continental Kennel Club, New Zealand Kennel Club, United Kennel Club, The Bichon Frise Club Of America.
Price $700-$1000 $1000-$1500
Size Small Medium
Weight 10 pounds (4.5 kg) Male: 57.5 pounds (26 kg), Female: 52.5 pounds (23.5 kg)
Height Male: 9-12 inches (23–30 cm) Female: 9-11 inches (23-28 cm) 15 inches (38 cm) or more
Avg. Height Male: 10.5 inches (26.5 cm) Female: 10 inches (25.5 cm) 15 inches (38 cm) or more

Hair & Care

coat curly Curly
colors White Apricot Buff Cream Apricot Brown Gray Silver White Fawn Blue Cream Red Beige Black
Grooming to keep in good condition, this breed needs Professional grooming techniques. to keep in good condition, this breed needs Professional grooming techniques.
Shedding Level Bichon Frises are low shedders. Poodles shed none to minimal.

Characteristics

Temperament Affectionate Playful Sensitive Cheerful Gentle Intelligent Active Faithful Intelligent Alert Instinctual Trainable
Intelligent Rank Average: Bichon Frise’s has average obedience intelligence. Outstanding: Poodle is one of the most intelligent dog breeds.
Ease of training Being easily trainable, they are a good choice for newbies Being easily trainable, they are a good choice for newbies
Playfulness being a playful breed, they are most loved by children. being playful breed, they are most loved by children.
Sensitivity Level Being more sensitive than other dog breeds, they demand extra care, time and affection. Being more sensitive than other dog breeds, they demand extra care, time and affection.
Affection Level Bichon Frises are very loving, loyal, affectionate, and gentle, dogs facilitating their handlers. Poodles are genuinely loving, loyal, affectionate, and gentle, dogs facilitating their handlers.
Social Needs Bichon Frises is a socially friendly breed and loves social interaction. Bichon Frises is a socially friendly breed and loves social interaction.
Barking Average: The Bichon Frise barks occasionally . The Poodle being quite a vocal breed, barks a lot.
Watchdog Ability Bichon Frises are average watchdogs. Poodles are good watchdogs
Territorial Bichon Frises are not good in the protection of their territory. Poodles are quite strong in protecting their territory.
Biting Potential The Bichon Frise is less likely to bite somebody. The poodle is less likely to bite somebody.
Mouthiness Being friendly and playful in nature, It likes to play-bite, herd people, chew and nip on average. Poodles have a relatively higher tendency to play-bite, herd people, chew and nip.
Wandering or Roaming tendency Bichon Frizes have average wanderlust potential . Poodles have average wanderlust potential.
Prey Drive Bichon Frises don’t like to chase or hunt small animals. Poodles have low to an average tendency of chasing and hunting a cat or any other small aminals.
Apartment Friendly Bichon Frises are very apartment-friendly dogs Poodles are very apartment-friendly dogs.
Adaptability Bichon Frises adjust to the various circumstances of life and cope well with almost all living conditions. Poodles adjust to the various circumstances of life and cope well with almost all living conditions.
Tolerance to loneliness Bichon Frises will, in general, have detachment nervousness when their masters leave them unattended at home since they bond intimately with them. Poodles tend will, in general, have detachment nervousness when their masters leave them unattended at home since they bond intimately with them.
Fighting Dog Ever, this breed was not so much utilized for battle and fight. Ever, this breed was not so much utilized for battle and fight.

Friendliness

Friendly to strangers Bichon Frises are very friendly to strangers. Poodles are very friendly to strangers.
Child-Friendly Bichon Frises are very friendly and playful with kids. Poodles are very friendly and playful with kids.
Cat-Friendly Bichon Frises are very friendly to cats. Poodles are very friendly to cats.
Dog-Friendly Bichon Frises are extremely affectionate and amiable to other dogs. Poodles are extremely affectionate and amiable to other dogs.
Office Friendly No  No 
  This breed is not very suitable to adjust in an o0ffice environment. This breed is not very suitable to adjust in an o0ffice environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly Being companion dogs, Bichon Frises are highly recommended for accompanying elderly people. Being companion dogs, Poodles are highly recommended for accompanying elderly people.
Pet-Friendly Bichon Frises are very friendly towards other pets. Poodles are very friendly towards other pets.
Good For novice owners No  No 
  Bichon Frises are not useful for fledgling owners, because of their obstinate character. Poodles are not useful for fledgling owners, because of their obstinate character.
Service Dog Not really  Yes 
  Bichon Frises are usually not considered suitable as a service dog. Poodles generally are usually considered good as a service dog.
Therapy Dog Yes  Yes 
  Bichon Frises are excellent as a therapy dog. The poodle is excellent as therapy dog.
Adaptability as Detection or Sniffer Dog Not really  Not really 
  A detective or sniffer dog is prepared to utilize its olfactory sense to distinguish substances, for example, explosives, unlawful medications, explosive substances, money, blood, and stash gadgets, for example, illegal cell phones. A detective or sniffer dog is prepared to utilize its olfactory sense to distinguish substances, for example, explosives, unlawful medications, explosive substances, money, blood, and stash gadgets, for example, illegal cell phones.
Search and Rescue Dog (SAR) Not really  Not really 
  This breed is usually not much considered as SAR breed. This breed is usually not much considered as SAR breed.
Boat Dog Not really  Yes 
  Bichon Frise breed generally avoids getting on boat Poodles usually love getting on a boat.
Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog Not really  Not really 
  They are not usually recommended as cart pulling dogs. They are not usually recommended as cart pulling dogs.

Health Factors

Health Issues Being a healthy breed, they require less health maintenance. However, an occasional medical examination by a professional vet is recommended. Being a healthy breed, they require less health maintenance. However, an occasional medical examination by a professional vet is recommended.
Health Problems Allergies, Bladder Stones, Juvenile Cataracts, Hip Dysplasia, Patellar, Vaccination Sensitivity, Luxation Addison’s Disease, Allergies, Atrial Septal Defect (ASD), Bloat Canine, Cataracts Cushing’s Syndrome, Epilepsy, Hip Dysplasia, Ear Infections, Hypothyroidism, Legg-Perthes Disease, Optic Nerve Hypoplasia, Patellar, Neonatal Encephalopathy (news), Luxation Premature Graying, Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), Runny Eyes, Willebrand’s Disease, Sebaceous Adenitis Von
Life Expectancy 12-15 years 12-15 years
Hypoallergenic Yes Yes
Energy Level Bichon Frises have a lower energy level than other dogs. Poodles are more energetic as compared to other dog breeds.
Exercise Need Bichon Frises exercise need is minimal. Poodle’s exercise needs are much more than other dog breeds.
Sleep requirement Bichon Frises like sleeping so they do sleep a lot. Poodles are very much energetic and active dogs and avoid much sleeping.
Avg. daily food requirements 1/2 to 1.5 cups of premium quality dry nourishment daily, partitioned into two meals. 2 to 3 cups of premium quality dry nourishment daily, partitioned into two meals.
Weight Gaining tendency moderate to High. moderate to High.
Weather & Climate Prefers moderate to warm climatic conditions Prefers warm and cool weather.
Stinkiness Low Medium
  The Bichon Frise has a relatively little tendency of smelling bad. The Poodle has an average tendency of smelling bad .
tendency to drool The Bichon Frise is a breed with a very low tendency to drool. The Poodle is a breed with a very low tendency to drool.

Reproduction

Time of Gestation 60-64 days 60-64 days
How often can they reproduce? Once in a year. Once in a year.
  Being unhealthy, More frequent breeding is not recommended. Being unhealthy, More frequent breeding is not recommended.
Litter Size 2-5 puppies 2-4 puppies

Conclusion – Bichon vs Poodle

In conclusion, both of these breeds may be similar in many aspects but the difference does exist in some characteristics thus making both of them uniquely identified breeds.

Article FAQ – Bichon Frise – 81 Frequently Asked Questions

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