What Other Dogs Are Similar to the Bichon Frise?

Bichon Frises are small, hairy dogs known for their playful disposition. They have been bred for centuries and originally descended from the water spaniel. They can grow up to 12 inches and are highly intelligent. Typical features of this breed are its multiple fur coating, dropped ears and dark expressive eyes. This breed generally comes in pure white color while there are a few varieties with colored coating. Apart from its size and intelligence, Bichons are popular house pets because some are hypoallergenic and have a good temperament. Several types of dogs are in the Bichon group and compare favorably with the Bichon Frise.

  1. Bolognese

    • Descended from the Maltese breed, the Bolognese was first bred in Italy in the Middle Ages. Its main features are its white coat, its dark eyes, lips and button nose. It is also more square shaped in comparison to Bichon Frises. This breed is an ideal pet as it loves being around people and its high intelligence allows for easy training. The Bolognese is also one of the dogs considered to be odorless and hypoallergenic. Would-be pet owners should note that this kind of dog requires constant grooming to keep its frayed double-coat from matting. Fraying can be avoided by trimming the dog's hair when it is just puppy, about 4 to 6 months old. Daily brushing and the application of a pH--balanced shampoo also helps in making the dog's coat more manageable.

    Coton De Tulear

    • The Coton de Tulear breed typically weighs up to 16 lbs. and is more rectangular in shape compared to Bichon Frises. Its single layer of hair makes it one of the easiest Bichon breeds to groom. They live from anywhere from 14 to 17 years old and are considered a healthy and sturdy stock with very few known diseases. The Cotons, just like Bichon Frises, are inherently playful and good family pets. They can get along with other household pets and their non-aggressive nature makes them safe around children and elderly. Cotons usually fetch a high price, so people looking forward to owning one of these dogs are advised to get them in dog shelters.

    Havanese

    • Also known as the Havana Silk Dog and Spanish Poodle, the Havanese has been a popular breed in Cuba and Spain. Typically playful, they make excellent house pets and companions. Its main features are its dark brown, almond eyes and long, wavy hair that goes over its body but does not touch the ground. Their light and silky coating developed from being bred in a tropical location. The Havanese typically stand up to 12 inches at the shoulder. Unlike Bichon Frises, it comes in a wide range of colors. Constant grooming is essential to keep the dog's hair from matting. It is considered top-line and its charming nature make it a popular family pet.