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Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu Comparison – Which dog is better Bichon A Poil Frise or Chrysanthemum Dog?

"Find similarities and differences between Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu" Compare Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu. Which is better: Bichon Frise or Shih Tzu?
 
 
 
Name Bichon Frise Shih Tzu
OriginsSpain flagSpain Belgium flagBelgium China flagChina
Group Companion Dogs Companion Dogs
Popularity Rank4620
Reviews519
User Ratings

Common Names & Aliases
Compare different names used for Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu. What other names are these breeds known by?
Bichon A Poil Frise
Bichon Tenerife
Purebred Bichon
Tenerife Dog
Bichon Frise
Chrysanthemum Dog
Chinese Lion Dog
Breed Classification
Compare breed classifications between a Bichon Frise and a Shih Tzu. Learn about their genetic backgrounds.
Purebred Purebred

Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu Size and Weight Comparison

Size Classification
Which is bigger: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare size differences between these breeds.
Small Small
Weight Statistics
Compare weight ranges between a Bichon Frise and a Shih Tzu. Which breed is heavier?
7-13 pounds (3-6 kg) 9–16 pounds (4-7 kg)
Average Weight
Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?
10 pounds (4.5 kg) 9–16 pounds (5.5 kg)
Height
Which is taller, Bichon Frise or Shih Tzu? Is a Bichon Frise taller than a Shih Tzu?
Male: 9-12 inches (23–30 cm) Female: 9-11 inches (23-28 cm) 8-11 inches (20-28 cm)
Average Height
Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?
Male: 10.5 inches (26.5 cm) Female: 10 inches (25.5 cm) 9.5 inches (24 cm)

Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu Price and Availability Comparison

Price Range
Compare puppy prices between a Bichon Frise and a Shih Tzu. Which breed costs more?
$700-$1000 $800-$1200
Availability
Which is easier to get, Bichon Frise or Shih Tzu?
Very frequent: The Bichon Frise is quite easy to get.
Very frequent: The Shih Tzu is quite easy to get.

Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligence Rating
Which is smarter: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare intelligence rankings and learning abilities.
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it.
See more.
Low: The Shih Tzu is one of the dog breeds that have the lowest degree of obedience intelligence.
See more.
Training Difficulty
Which is easier to train: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare training requirements.
Bichon Frise dogs are quite easy to train.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs are quite easy to train.
See more.
Watchdog Rating
Which makes a better watchdog: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare alertness levels.
Bichon Frise dogs are average watchdogs.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs are average watchdogs.
See more.
Territorial Protection
Which is more protective: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare territorial behaviors.
Bichon Frise dogs are not the best to protect their territory.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs strongly protect their territory.
See more.

Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu Personality and Temperament Comparison

Personality Traits
Compare personalities of a Bichon Frise and a Shih Tzu. How do their temperaments differ?
Playful
Sensitive
Intelligent
Affectionate
Gentle
Cheerful
Active
Playful
Happy
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Lively
Gentle
Sensitivity Level
Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference between Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu?
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed.
See more.
Affection Level
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu?
High: Bichon Frise dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
See more.
High: Shih Tzu dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
See more.
Social Needs
Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu social needs comparison:
Bichon Frise dogs need a lot of social interaction.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs need a lot of social interaction.
See more.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
Which dog has a greater roaming instinct? What's the difference between Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu?
Bichon Frise dogs have average wanderlust potential.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
See more.
Prey Drive
Which dog has a higher prey drive? What's the difference between Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu? Which can be better for hunting?
Their prey drive is low.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds.
See more.

Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu Activity and Playfulness Comparison

Barking Frequency
Which breed barks more: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare vocalization tendencies.
Average: The Bichon Frise barks occasionally.
See more.
A lot: Shih Tzu is a particularly loud breed.
See more.
Playful Nature
Which breed is more playful: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare play drive and energy.
The Bichon Frise is a playful breed.
See more.
Shih Tzus are not the most playful dog breed.
See more.
Apartment Adaptability
Which is better for apartments: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare living space needs.
Very house-friendly dog the Bichon Frise breed.
Very house-friendly dog the Shih Tzu breed.

Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu Adaptability and Independence Comparison

Lifestyle Adaptability
Which adapts better to changes: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare adaptability levels.
Bichon Frise dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Shih Tzu dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Alone Time Tolerance
Which dog can be left alone: Bichon Frise or Shih Tzu?
Bichon Frise dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
Shih Tzu dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu Bite Characteristics Comparison

Bite Risk Assessment
Which has lower bite risk: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare biting tendencies.

Low 🔽

The Bichon Frise has a low chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

The Shih Tzu has a low chance of biting somebody.
Mouthing Tendency
Which is more mouthy: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare mouthing behaviors.
Bichon Frise dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
See more.
Bite Strength Rating
Which has a stronger bite: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare bite force PSI.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Bichon Frise bite force: Weak.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Shih Tzu bite force: Weak.

Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu Health and Lifespan Comparison

Average Lifespan
Which lives longer: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare average lifespans.
11-15 years
The average lifespan of Bichon Frise: 13 years
10-16 years
The average lifespan of Shih Tzu: 13 years
Climate Tolerance
Which handles weather better: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare climate tolerances.
Prefers average to warm weather conditions
Different dogs have different preferences when it comes to weather conditions.
See more.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur.
See more.
Health Concerns
Compare common health issues between a Bichon Frise and a Shih Tzu. Which breed is healthier?
The Bichon Frise is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
The Shih Tzu is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Vet Care Frequency
Which one may need more or less veterinary visits: Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu?
Average
The Bichon Frise should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Average
The Shih Tzu should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Health Problems
Which one has more or less genetic/health problems: Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu health problems comparison:
Hip Dysplasia
Patellar Luxation
Allergies
Vaccination Sensitivity
Bladder Stones
Juvenile Cataracts
Hip Dysplasia
Patellar Luxation
Allergies
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Umbilical Hernias
Ear Infections
Distichiasis
Portosystemic Liver Shunt
Bladder Stones
Ectopic Cilia
Reverse Sneezing
Dry Eye
Proptosis
Juvenile Renal Dysplasia
Keratitis
Retained Baby Teeth
Snuffles

Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu Energy and Activity Comparison

Energy Rating
Which breed is more energetic: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare activity levels.
Bichon Frise dogs have a lower energy level than other dogs.
Shih Tzu dogs have a lower energy level than other dogs.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu exercise need comparison. Which dog needs more activity? Which dog needs the most exercise: Bichon Frise or Shih Tzu? Which dog needs the most walking? Which dog is the laziest?
Bichon Frise dogs exercise need is minimal.
Shih Tzu dogs exercise need is minimal.
Sleeping Need
Which one sleeps the least/most: Bichon Frise or Shih Tzu?
Bichon Frise dogs like sleeping so they do sleep a lot.
Shih Tzu dogs like sleeping so they do sleep a lot.

Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Obesity Tendency
Which gains weight easier: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare obesity risks.
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Bichon Frise's weight, he can easily gain weight.
See more.
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Shih Tzu's weight, he can easily gain weight.
See more.
Food Consumption
Which eats more: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare daily food needs.
1/2 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. Recommended daily amount: 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day.

Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Allergy Friendliness
Which is more hypoallergenic: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare allergy friendliness.
Yes See more. Yes See more.
Coat Colors
What color variations exist for Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu? Compare breed colors.
Cream
White
Buff
Apricot
Black
Red
Blue
Silver
Brindle
Liver
Gold
Grooming Requirements
Which needs more grooming: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare maintenance needs.
Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
See more.
Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
See more.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare drooling amounts.
The Bichon Frise is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.
The Shih Tzu is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.
Stinkiness Rating
Which has less odor: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare natural smell levels.

Low 🔽

The Bichon Frise has a low chance of bad smell.

Low 🔽

The Shih Tzu has a low chance of bad smell.
Coat Characteristics
How do coats differ between a Bichon Frise and a Shih Tzu? Compare fur types.
Curly Dense
Bathing Needs
Which needs more baths: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare bathing frequencies.
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds.
See more.
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup.
See more.
Shedding Level
Who sheds more Bichon Frise or Shih Tzu? Do Bichon Frise dogs shed more than Shih Tzu dogs?
Bichon Frise dogs are low shedders.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.

Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu Good With Comparison

Child Compatibility
Which is better with children: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare kid-friendliness.
Bichon Frise dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
Shih Tzu dogs are not the most kid-friendly dogs.
Pet Compatibility
Which dog breeds get along well with other animals/pets?
Bichon Frise dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.
Shih Tzu dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.
Stranger Friendly
Which dog is more stranger friendly Bichon Frise or Shih Tzu? Which dog is more friendly?
Bichon Frise dogs are very stranger-friendly dogs.
Shih Tzu dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Cat Friendly
Which dog is more cat friendly Bichon Frise or Shih Tzu?
Bichon Frise dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
Shih Tzu dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Which dog is more dog friendly Bichon Frise or Shih Tzu? Can a Bichon Frise and a Shih Tzu be friends? Do Bichon Frise dogs get along with Shih Tzu dogs?
Bichon Frise dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
Shih Tzu dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Which dog is best for first time owners: Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu?
Yes
Bichon Frise dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Yes
Shih Tzu dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Which one fits better in the office?
No
Bichon Frise is not the best dog breed for office environment.
No
Shih Tzu is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Which dog is good for elderly people?
Bichon Frises are usually recommended for elderly people.
Shih Tzus are not the best breed for elderly people.

Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu As a Working Dog Comparison

Service Dog Capability
Which makes a better service dog: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare service capabilities.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog.
See more.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog.
See more.
Therapy Work Suitability
Which is better for therapy work: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare therapy capabilities.

Yes

This breed makes a perfect therapy dog.
See more.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
See more.
Scent Detection Ability
Which is better at detection work: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.
Search & Rescue Potential
Which is better for search and rescue: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare SAR abilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.
Maritime Work Ability
Which is better on boats: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare maritime abilities.

Not really

Bichon Frise breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.

Not really

Shih Tzu breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.
Draft Work Capability
Which is better at pulling: a Bichon Frise or a Shih Tzu? Compare draft work capabilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
See more.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
See more.
Military Service Background
Compare military history between Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu. Which has stronger military background?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu Reproducibility Comparison

Puppy Litter Size
Compare litter sizes between Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu. Which has larger litters?
2-5 puppies 2-5 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
Compare pregnancy duration between Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu breeds.
60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more.
Breeding Frequency
Compare breeding frequencies between Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu. Which needs longer recovery?

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.

Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu Recognition Comparison

AKC Classification
Compare AKC classifications of Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu. Which groups do they belong to?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1972 as a Non-Sporting breed. Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 as a Toy breed.
FCI Classification
Compare FCI classifications of Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu. Which groups are they in?
Not recognized by FCI. Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Tibetan breeds section.
Kennel Club Recognition
Compare kennel club recognition between Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu. Which is more widely recognized?
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
The Bichon Frise Club Of America
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry

Rate This Comparsion - Bichon Frise vs Shih Tzu

Reviews

  • Barry Young

    Jan 23, 2021, 11:15:21 PM:

    Very helpful and thorough