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Bichon Frise vs ShiChi Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Tenerife Dog or Chi-Shi?

Compare the Bichon Frise and ShiChi breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Tenerife Dog or a Chi-Shi? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Bichon A Poil Frise, Tenerife Dog, Purebred Bichon, Bichon Frise, Bichon Tenerife
Shi-Chi, Chi-Tzu, Shi Chi, Chi-Shi

Weight

What is the average weight of Bichon Frise and ShiChi?
12.5 pounds ( 6 kg )
8.5 pounds ( 4 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Bichon Frise and ShiChi
9.0 inches ( 22.9 cm )
10.0 inches ( 25.4 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Bichon Frises or ShiChis hypoallergenic, or neither?

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Bichon Frises are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

No

Unfortunately, the ShiChi is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Bichon Frise and ShiChi dogs?
Affectionate
Playful
Sensitive
Cheerful
Gentle
Intelligent

Active
Playful
Happy
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Quick
Devoted
Lively
Gentle

Shedding Level

Do Bichon Frises shed more than ShiChis, or which breed sheds more, Bichon Frises or ShiChis?

Bichon Frises are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

ShiChis shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Bichon Frise or ShiChi?

Bichon Frises are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Avoid ShiChis as watchdogs - they're not effective.

Origin

What is the origin of Bichon Frise and ShiChi dog breeds?
France

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Bichon Frise and ShiChi breeds?
barbet, water dog

Chihuahua and Shih Tzu

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Bichon Frise and ShiChi?
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
The Bichon Frise Club Of America

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DBR = Designer Breed Registry
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

Date of Birth

When were Bichon Frise and ShiChi breeds first developed?
ancient times

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Bichon Frise and ShiChi dogs?
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Bichon Frise and ShiChi?
Black

Black
Isabella

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Bichon Frise and ShiChi breeds?
White
Cream

Cream
White
Black
Fawn
Brown

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Bichon Frise and ShiChi?
Curly

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Bichon Frise and ShiChi?

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

A Bichon Frise can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

2-5 puppies per pregnancy

A ShiChi can have a litter of 2-5 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Bichon Frise and ShiChis are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Bichon Frise and ShiChi, which breed is more prone to health problems?

While the Bichon Frise breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

ShiChis typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Bichon Frise and ShiChi breeds?
Patellar Luxation
Hip Dysplasia
Dental Disease
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Hip Dysplasia
Hydrocephalus

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Bichon Frise and ShiChi?
Cataract
Urolithiasis
Allergies
Tooth Loss
Hemophilia
Atopic Dermatitis
Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Patellar Luxation
Distichiasis
Cataracts
Glaucoma
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Dental Problems

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Bichon Frise and ShiChi breeds?
Eye
Blood
Knee
Heart
X-Rays
Dental Examination
Allergy Tests

Eye Examination
Dental Examination
Radiographs
Full Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Bichon Frises and ShiChis compare?

Bichon Frise and ShiChi breeds may be a good choice for those who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle. They tend to have a lower energy level than other breeds of dogs.

Social Needs

Bichon Frise vs ShiChi social needs comparison

Bichon Frise and ShiChi have very high social needs. These needs include regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Bichon Frise vs ShiChi exercise need comparison.

Bichon Frises need only a small amount of physical activity, ideal for busy or elderly people or those with limited space.

ShiChis need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Bichon Frise or ShiChi?

The Bichon Frise and ShiChi breed are known for their relaxed and calm nature, as well as their tendency to sleep for long periods of time.

Tendency to Bark

Do Bichon Frises or ShiChis bark more/less frequently?

Bichon Frise and ShiChis tend to bark moderately, they bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or to communicate something. They may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Bichon Frise vs ShiChi?

Roaming urge

Bichon Frise vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Bichon Frise or ShiChi - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Bichon Frise and ShiChi entertained?
Play, Agility, Walk, Walking, Sniffing, Running, Tricks, Fetch, Cuddling, Swimming, Socializing, Cuddle, Sleeping, Training, Go to Park, Lickin, Pets, Run, Snuggle, Sleep, Barking, Eating, Belly rubs, Off-leash, Chase, Dog Parks, Speak, High Five, Tug-of-war, Toys

Playing Ball, Sleep, Running, Game of fetch, Chasing, Frisbee, Rough Housing, Tug, Eating Snacks, Play keep away, Nap, Road trip, Chase, High Five, Hide & Seek, Painting nails, Speak, Shake, Dog Parks, Bath time, Play, Sleeping, Kissing, Walking, Playing, Hugging, Cuddling, Chasing me, Sleeping on me, Fetch

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Bichon Frises or ShiChis?

Medium

Bichon Frises are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Low

ShiChis are low-energy dogs. This breed make a great companion for a relatively inactive person. ShiChi dogs require a few short daily walks, and then they're happy snuggling next to you for the rest of the day.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Bichon Frise or ShiChi walk each week?

7 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Bichon Frise, it's at least 7 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

4 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For ShiChi, it's at least 4 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Bichon Frises or ShiChis require more exercise?

30 minutes

In general most Bichon Frises usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

25 minutes

In general most ShiChis usually need at least 25 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Bichon Frises or ShiChis?

Bichon Frises have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

The ShiChi requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Bichon Frise and ShiChi dogs?

Weekly

Bichon Frise and ShiChi should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Bichon Frises and ShiChis?
Pin Brush
Comb
Scissors
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Bichon Frise or ShiChi in cups?

1 cups

Bichon Frise and ShiChi share the same recommended daily food intake of 1 cups, although the appropriate quantity may vary depending on the quality and nutritional content of their food.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Bichon Frise or ShiChi?

$1.40 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a Bichon Frise is somewhere $1.40 - $1.40 per day.

$1.10 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a ShiChi is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Bichon Frise or ShiChi?

$35 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a Bichon Frise is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$28 - $35 / month

The average per month expenses of a ShiChi is between $28 - $35. This makes an average of $336 - $420 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Bichon Frises vs ShiChis

Bichon Frises are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

ShiChi has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do Bichon Frise and ShiChi compare in sensitivity?

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Bichon Frise and ShiChi need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Bichon Frise vs ShiChi?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Bichon Frise or ShiChi?

Bichon Frises and ShiChis are known for being excellent apartment dogs. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Bichon Frises or ShiChis have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Bichon Frises are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

ShiChis are not the best choice for families with kids.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Bichon Frise or ShiChi?

Cat Friendly

Do Bichon Frise or ShiChi breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Bichon Frises and ShiChis are very cat friendly dogs. They generally make good companions for cats.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Bichon Frise or ShiChi?

Bichon Frises are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

ShiChis are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

How do Bichon Frise or ShiChi dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Bichon Frise or ShiChi?

Bichon Frises are highly friendly around strangers.

ShiChis are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Bichon Frise and ShiChi?

Bichon Frises are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

ShiChis have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Bichon Frises and ShiChis compare?

Bichon Frise and ShiChi dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.

Common match-ups