Afghan Hound vs Bichon Frise

Hound · Large vs Non-Sporting · Small

Quick take
  • Afghan Hound is the larger breed at 60 lbs (males) vs 12–18 lbs for the Bichon Frise.
  • The Afghan Hound typically lives longer (12–18 years).
  • The Bichon Frise sheds less.
  • The Bichon Frise is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAfghan HoundBichon Frise
Group
HoundNon-Sporting
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
AfghanistanFrance
Height (male)
27"9.5–11.5"
Height (female)
25"9.5–11.5"
Weight (male)
60 lbs12–18 lbs
Weight (female)
50 lbs12–18 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–18 years14–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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About the Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is an aloof, dignified, ancient sighthound — the supermodel of the dog world with a flowing silken coat. Originally from Afghanistan, this large hound breed typically weighs 60 lbs and lives 12–18 years. Breeders describe them as aloof, dignified, independent.

About the Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a playful, curious, peppy white powder-puff lapdog from the French Riviera — Mediterranean cheerfulness. Originally from France, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 12–18 lbs and lives 14–15 years. Breeders describe them as playful, curious, peppy.

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Afghan Hound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism

Bichon Frise health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Allergies
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Cataracts