Bichon Frise vs German Shorthaired Pointer

Non-Sporting · Small vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • German Shorthaired Pointer is the larger breed at 55–70 lbs (males) vs 12–18 lbs for the Bichon Frise.
  • The Bichon Frise typically lives longer (14–15 years).
  • The German Shorthaired Pointer has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Bichon Frise sheds less.
  • The German Shorthaired Pointer is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBichon FriseGerman Shorthaired Pointer
Group
Non-SportingSporting
Size
SmallLarge
Origin
FranceGermany
Height (male)
9.5–11.5"23–25"
Height (female)
9.5–11.5"21–23"
Weight (male)
12–18 lbs55–70 lbs
Weight (female)
12–18 lbs45–60 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–15 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
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)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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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 German Shorthaired Pointer

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a friendly, smart, willing-to-please all-around hunting and family dog with a liver-spotted coat. Originally from Germany, this large sporting breed typically weighs 55–70 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, smart, willing to please.

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Bichon Frise health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Allergies
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Cataracts

German Shorthaired Pointer health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Eye conditions
  • Lymphedema