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Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu Comparison - Dog breed selector: Bichon A Poil Frise or Tenter Terrier or Mal-Shi? Find the right dog for you

"Find similarities and differences between Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu" Compare Bichon Frise and Tenterfield Terrier. Which is better: Bichon Frise or Tenterfield Terrier or Maltese Shih Tzu?
 
 
 
Name Bichon Frise Tenterfield Terrier Maltese Shih Tzu
OriginsSpain flagSpain Belgium flagBelgium Australia flagAustralia United States flagUnited States
Group Companion Dogs Hunting Dogs Designer Dogs
Popularity Rank46455622
Reviews513
User Ratings

Common Names & Aliases
Compare alternative names and nicknames used for Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu breeds.
Bichon A Poil Frise
Bichon Tenerife
Purebred Bichon
Tenerife Dog
Bichon Frise
Tenter Terrier
Tenterfield Dog
Mini Foxie Terrier
Mal-Shi
Malti Zu
Malt-Tzu
Breed Classification
How do breed classifications differ between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu? Compare their breeding categories.
Purebred Purebred Cross Breed

Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu Size and Weight Comparison

Size Classification
Compare size differences between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which breed is the largest?
Small Small Small
Weight Statistics
How do weights compare between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu? Compare adult weight ranges.
7-13 pounds (3-6 kg) Male: 8-10 pounds (4-5 kg), Female: 7-9 pounds (3-4 kg) 6-12 pounds (2.5-5.5 kg)
Average Weight
Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?
10 pounds (4.5 kg) Male: 9 pounds (4.5 kg), Female: 8 pounds (3.5 kg) 9 pounds (4 kg)
Height
Which is taller, Bichon Frise or Tenterfield Terrier or Maltese Shih Tzu? Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu height comparison:
Male: 9-12 inches (23–30 cm) Female: 9-11 inches (23-28 cm) 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) 10-12 inches (25-30 cm)
Average Height
Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?
Male: 10.5 inches (26.5 cm) Female: 10 inches (25.5 cm) 11 inches (27.5 cm) 11 inches (27.5 cm)

Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu Price and Availability Comparison

Price Range
Compare puppy costs for Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Find price differences between these breeds.
$700-$1000 $600-$1700 $500-$800
Availability
Which is easier to get, Bichon Frise or Tenterfield Terrier or Maltese Shih Tzu?
Very frequent: The Bichon Frise is quite easy to get.
Rare: You may rarely see each other in everyday life, but you might catch a glimpse of each other at dog shows.
Average: The Maltese Shih Tzu is a commonly available dog breed.

Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligence Rating
Compare intelligence levels between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which breed ranks highest?
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it.
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Smart: The Tenterfield Terrier dogs have great intelligence.
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Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it.
See more.
Training Difficulty
Compare training difficulty levels between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which is easiest to train?
Bichon Frise dogs are quite easy to train.
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Tenterfield Terrier dogs are easy to train.
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Maltese Shih Tzu dogs are easy to train.
See more.
Watchdog Rating
Compare watchdog abilities of Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which breed is most alert?
Bichon Frise dogs are average watchdogs.
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Tenterfield Terrier dogs are good watchdogs.
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Maltese Shih Tzu dogs are average watchdogs.
See more.
Territorial Protection
Compare territorial instincts between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which breed is most protective?
Bichon Frise dogs are not the best to protect their territory.
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Tenterfield Terrier dogs strongly protect their territory.
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Maltese Shih Tzu dogs are average defenders.
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Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu Personality and Temperament Comparison

Personality Traits
How do personalities differ between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu? Compare temperaments.
Playful
Sensitive
Intelligent
Affectionate
Gentle
Cheerful
Active
Playful
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Outgoing
Bold
Adaptable
Hard working
Active
Curious
Playful
Intelligent
Outgoing
Adaptable
Sensitivity Level
Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference?
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds.
See more.
Tenterfield Terrier dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed.
See more.
Maltese 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 Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu?
High: Bichon Frise dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
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Average to High: Tenterfield Terrier dogs are highly affectionate dogs.
See more.
Average to High: Maltese Shih Tzu dogs are highly affectionate dogs.
See more.
Social Needs
Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu social needs comparison:
Bichon Frise dogs need a lot of social interaction.
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Tenterfield Terrier dogs are a social breed.
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Maltese Shih Tzu dogs need for social interaction is average.
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Impulse to Wander or Roam
Which dog has a greater roaming instinct?
Bichon Frise dogs have average wanderlust potential.
See more.
Tenterfield Terrier dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world.
See more.
Maltese Shih Tzu dogs are not the biggest explorers.
See more.
Prey Drive
Which dog has a higher prey drive? Which can be better for hunting?
Their prey drive is low.
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Tenterfield Terrier dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something.
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Maltese Shih Tzu dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something.
See more.

Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu Activity and Playfulness Comparison

Barking Frequency
Compare barking frequencies of Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which breed is most vocal?
Average: The Bichon Frise barks occasionally.
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Average to High: The Tenterfield Terrier is a vocal breed.
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Average to High: The Maltese Shih Tzu is a vocal breed.
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Playful Nature
Compare playfulness levels between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which breed is most playful?
The Bichon Frise is a playful breed.
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The Tenterfield Terrier is a highly playful breed.
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Average: Maltese Shih Tzus, like any other dog breed, like playing.
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Apartment Adaptability
Compare apartment suitability of Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which adapts best to small spaces?
Very house-friendly dog the Bichon Frise breed.
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep Tenterfield Terrier indoors.
Very house-friendly dog the Maltese Shih Tzu breed.

Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu Adaptability and Independence Comparison

Lifestyle Adaptability
Compare adaptability between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which breed is most flexible?
Bichon Frise dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Tenterfield Terrier dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Average: Maltese Shih Tzu dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Alone Time Tolerance
Which dog can be left alone: Bichon Frise or Tenterfield Terrier or Maltese 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.
Tenterfield Terrier dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner.

Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu Bite Characteristics Comparison

Bite Risk Assessment
Compare biting potential between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which has lowest bite risk?

Low 🔽

The Bichon Frise has a low chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

The Tenterfield Terrier has a low chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

The Maltese Shih Tzu has a low chance of biting somebody.
Mouthing Tendency
Compare mouthing tendencies between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which uses mouth most during play?
Bichon Frise dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
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Tenterfield Terrier dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
See more.
Maltese Shih Tzu dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
See more.
Bite Strength Rating
Compare bite forces between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which has the strongest bite?

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Bichon Frise bite force: Weak.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Tenterfield Terrier bite force: Weak.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Maltese Shih Tzu bite force: Weak.

Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu Health and Lifespan Comparison

Average Lifespan
Compare life expectancies of Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which breed lives longest?
11-15 years
The average lifespan of Bichon Frise: 13 years
11-15 years
The average lifespan of Tenterfield Terrier: 13 years
12-14 years
The average lifespan of Maltese Shih Tzu: 13 years
Climate Tolerance
Compare weather adaptability between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which handles climate changes best?
Prefers average to warm weather conditions
Different dogs have different preferences when it comes to weather conditions.
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Prefers average to warm weather conditions
Different dogs have different preferences when it comes to weather conditions.
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Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur.
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Health Concerns
Compare health problems common in Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which has fewer health issues?
The Bichon Frise is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Very healthy dog breed.
Maltese Shih Tzus tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
Vet Care Frequency
Which one may need more or less veterinary visits?
Average
The Bichon Frise should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Rare
The Tenterfield Terrier should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year).
Frequent
The Maltese Shih Tzu should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year.
Health Problems
Which one has more or less genetic/health problems: Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu health problems comparison:
Hip Dysplasia
Patellar Luxation
Allergies
Vaccination Sensitivity
Bladder Stones
Juvenile Cataracts
No data available Patellar Luxation
White Dog Shaker Syndrome

Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu Energy and Activity Comparison

Energy Rating
Compare energy levels between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which breed is most active?
Bichon Frise dogs have a lower energy level than other dogs.
Tenterfield Terrier dogs are high-energy dogs.
Maltese Shih Tzu dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu exercise need comparison. Which dog needs more activity? Which dog needs the most exercise: Bichon Frise or Tenterfield Terrier or Maltese Shih Tzu? Which dog needs the most walking? Which dog is the laziest?
Bichon Frise dogs exercise need is minimal.
Tenterfield Terrier dogs need a lot of exercises.
Maltese Shih Tzu dogs have an average exercise need.
Sleeping Need
Which one sleeps the least/most: Bichon Frise or Tenterfield Terrier or Maltese Shih Tzu?
Bichon Frise dogs like sleeping so they do sleep a lot.
Tenterfield Terrier dogs don't need too much sleep.
Maltese Shih Tzu dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.

Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Obesity Tendency
Compare weight gain tendencies between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which is most prone to obesity?
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Bichon Frise's weight, he can easily gain weight.
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Average: The Tenterfield Terrier has an average risk for obesity.
See more.
Average: The Maltese Shih Tzu has an average risk for obesity.
See more.
Food Consumption
Compare food requirements between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which needs most food?
1/2 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. 1/4 to 1/2 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. 1/2 to 1 cup dry food a day.

Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Allergy Friendliness
Compare hypoallergenic qualities of Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which is best for allergy sufferers?
Yes See more. No See more. Yes See more.
Coat Colors
Compare color variations between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. What colors are available?
Cream
White
Buff
Apricot
Tricolor
Tan & White
Black
White
Brown
White & Tan
Black & White
Brown & Black
Grooming Requirements
Compare grooming needs between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which requires most maintenance?
Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
See more.
Easy to groom: The Tenterfield Terrier doesn't require a lot of grooming.
See more.
Advanced: The Maltese Shih Tzu requires a lot of grooming.
See more.
Drooling Tendency
Compare drooling tendencies between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which drools least?
The Bichon Frise is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
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The Tenterfield Terrier is an average drooler.
See more.
The Maltese Shih Tzu is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.
Stinkiness Rating
Compare odor levels between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which has least natural smell?

Low 🔽

The Bichon Frise has a low chance of bad smell.

Medium

The Tenterfield Terrier has an average chance of bad smell.

Low 🔽

The Maltese Shih Tzu has a low chance of bad smell.
Coat Characteristics
Compare coat types between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. How do their fur characteristics differ?
Curly Smooth
Straight
Sparse
Curly
Silky
Soft
Wavy
Long
Bathing Needs
Compare bathing needs between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which requires most frequent baths?
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds.
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3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds.
See more.
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds.
See more.
Shedding Level
Who sheds more Bichon Frise or Tenterfield Terrier or Maltese Shih Tzu? Bichon Frise or Tenterfield Terrier or {name3 shedding:
Bichon Frise dogs are low shedders.
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Tenterfield Terrier dogs shed moderately.
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Maltese Shih Tzu dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.

Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu Good With Comparison

Child Compatibility
Compare child-friendliness between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which is best with kids?
Bichon Frise dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
Tenterfield Terrier dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
Maltese Shih Tzu dogs are average friendly dogs towards children.
Pet Compatibility
Which dog breeds get along well with other animals/pets?
Bichon Frise dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.
Tenterfield Terrier dogs do best when they’re the only pet at the family.
Maltese Shih Tzu dogs do best when they’re the only pet at the family.
Stranger Friendly
Which dog is more stranger friendly Bichon Frise or Tenterfield Terrier or Maltese Shih Tzu? Which dog is more friendly?
Bichon Frise dogs are very stranger-friendly dogs.
Tenterfield Terrier dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Maltese Shih Tzu dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Cat Friendly
Which dog is more cat friendly Bichon Frise or Tenterfield Terrier or Maltese Shih Tzu?
Bichon Frise dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
Tenterfield Terrier dogs are not cat-friendly dogs.
Maltese Shih Tzu dogs are not cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Which dog is more dog friendly Bichon Frise or Tenterfield Terrier or Maltese Shih Tzu?
Bichon Frise dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
Tenterfield Terrier dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
Maltese Shih Tzu dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Which dog is good for the first-time owners: Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu?
Yes
Bichon Frise dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Yes
Tenterfield Terrier dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Yes
Maltese 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
Tenterfield Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Yes
Maltese Shih Tzu is one of the best dog breeds for office environment
Senior Citizens Friendly
Which dog is good for elderly people?
Bichon Frises are usually recommended for elderly people.
Tenterfield Terriers are usually recommended for elderly people.
Maltese Shih Tzus are commonly okay with elderly people.

Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu As a Working Dog Comparison

Service Dog Capability
Compare service dog potential between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which is best suited for service work?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog.
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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
Compare therapy dog potential between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which excels in therapy work?

Yes

This breed makes a perfect therapy dog.
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Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
See more.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
See more.
Scent Detection Ability
Compare detection capabilities between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which has best nose work ability?

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.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.
Search & Rescue Potential
Compare search and rescue potential between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which is best for SAR work?

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.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.
Maritime Work Ability
Compare boating aptitude between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which is best suited for water work?

Not really

Bichon Frise breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
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Not really

Tenterfield Terrier breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.

Not really

Maltese Shih Tzu breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.
Draft Work Capability
Compare cart pulling abilities between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which is best for draft work?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
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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.
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Military Service Background
Compare military service history of Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which has most military use?

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.

Not really

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

Bichon Frise vs Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu Reproducibility Comparison

Puppy Litter Size
Compare typical litter sizes of Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which has most puppies?
2-5 puppies 4-6 puppies 3-5 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
Compare gestation periods of Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Any breeding differences?
60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more.
Breeding Frequency
Compare breeding intervals between Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. What's recommended?

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.

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 Tenterfield Terrier vs Maltese Shih Tzu Recognition Comparison

AKC Classification
Compare AKC groups for Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. How are they classified?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1972 as a Non-Sporting breed. Not recognized by the American Kennel Club. Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
Compare FCI groups for Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. How are they classified internationally?
Not recognized by FCI. Not recognized by FCI. Not recognized by FCI.
Kennel Club Recognition
Compare breed recognition status of Bichon Frise, Tenterfield Terrier, and Maltese Shih Tzu. Which has most recognition?
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
No data available Not recognized by any clubs.

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