Bichon Frise vs Chinese Shar-Pei

Non-Sporting · Small vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Chinese Shar-Pei is the larger breed at 45–60 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.
  • The Bichon Frise is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBichon FriseChinese Shar-Pei
Group
Non-SportingNon-Sporting
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
FranceChina
Height (male)
9.5–11.5"18–20"
Height (female)
9.5–11.5"18–20"
Weight (male)
12–18 lbs45–60 lbs
Weight (female)
12–18 lbs45–60 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–15 years8–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
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 Chinese Shar-Pei

The Chinese Shar-Pei is a loyal, calm, independent wrinkly Chinese guardian — hippopotamus-faced ancient farm and palace dog. Originally from China, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–60 lbs and lives 8–12 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, calm, independent.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Bichon Frise health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Allergies
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Cataracts

Chinese Shar-Pei health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Skin issues
  • Allergies