Bichon Frise vs Bull Terrier

Non-Sporting · Small vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Bull Terrier is the larger breed at 50–70 lbs (males) vs 12–18 lbs for the Bichon Frise.
  • The Bichon Frise typically lives longer (14–15 years).
  • The Bichon Frise sheds less.
  • The Bichon Frise is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBichon FriseBull Terrier
Group
Non-SportingTerrier
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
FranceEngland
Height (male)
9.5–11.5"21–22"
Height (female)
9.5–11.5"21–22"
Weight (male)
12–18 lbs50–70 lbs
Weight (female)
12–18 lbs50–70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–15 years12–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

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.

About the Bull Terrier

The Bull Terrier is a playful, charming, mischievous egg-headed gladiator — Spuds MacKenzie, the original Target dog. Originally from England, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 50–70 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as playful, charming, mischievous.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Bichon Frise health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Allergies
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Cataracts

Bull Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Deafness
  • Heart disease
  • Skin issues
  • Kidney problems