Bichon Frise vs Newfoundland

Non-Sporting · Small vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Newfoundland is the larger breed at 130–150 lbs (males) vs 12–18 lbs for the Bichon Frise.
  • The Bichon Frise typically lives longer (14–15 years).
  • The Bichon Frise has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Bichon Frise sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBichon FriseNewfoundland
Group
Non-SportingWorking
Size
SmallGiant
Origin
FranceCanada
Height (male)
9.5–11.5"28"
Height (female)
9.5–11.5"26"
Weight (male)
12–18 lbs130–150 lbs
Weight (female)
12–18 lbs100–120 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–15 years9–10 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very High (5/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longlong
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 Newfoundland

The Newfoundland is a sweet, patient, devoted water-rescue dog — the gentle 'nanny dog' from Canada's Atlantic coast. Originally from Canada, this giant working breed typically weighs 130–150 lbs and lives 9–10 years. Breeders describe them as sweet, patient, devoted.

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Bichon Frise health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Allergies
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Cataracts

Newfoundland health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Cystinuria