Bichon Frise vs Havanese

Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds — temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.

Bichon Frise vs Havanese — at a glance

The Bichon Frise (5–8 kg, 14–15 years) and the Havanese (3–6 kg, 14–16 years) sit in different — or sometimes overlapping — corners of dog ownership. Here's how they really compare for an everyday Irish or UK family.

Energy levels are well-matched between the Bichon Frise and Havanese — both need similar daily exercise.

Both have manageable grooming routines — the Bichon Frise demands slightly more, but neither needs daily fuss.

Insurance premiums for breeds with brachycephalic, joint or cancer predispositions run 20–40% above average — check before you commit. We have a free quote calculator here.

	Bichon Frise	Havanese
Group	Non-Sporting	Toy
Origin	Mediterranean	Cuba
Weight	5–8 kg	3–6 kg
Height	23–30 cm	21–29 cm
Lifespan	14–15 years	14–16 years
Energy level
Trainability
Grooming needs
Good with kids
Good with other pets
Hypoallergenic
Watchdog instinct
Novice-owner OK

Bichon Frise

Temperament

Cheerful, gentle, playful, affectionate. Bichons are people-magnets and need to be part of the family. Generally great with children, other dogs and cats. Can be barky without training.

Exercise

30–60 minutes of daily exercise plus indoor play. Mental work and short obedience sessions are ideal.

Grooming

High maintenance: daily brushing if kept fluffy, plus a professional groom every 4–6 weeks. Tear staining around eyes is common (genetic). Hair grows continuously and doesn't shed.

Health

Generally healthy and long-lived. Watch for: bladder stones (a Bichon problem — drink lots of water, monitor urine), Cushing's disease, allergies (skin and food), patellar luxation, dental disease.

Full Bichon Frise profile →

Havanese

Temperament

Affectionate, friendly, gentle, playful. Havanese thrive on family company and don't do well left alone for long.

Exercise

30–60 minutes of daily walking plus indoor play. Mental work is just as important as physical.

Grooming

Long silky double coat. Daily brushing if kept long; most owners do a "puppy clip" every 6 weeks. Low-shedding.

Health

Patellar luxation. Eye conditions (cataracts, cherry eye, PRA). Hip dysplasia. Heart murmurs. Generally a long-lived breed.

Full Havanese profile →

Which is right for you?

Pick the Bichon Frise if

Allergy-sensitive families, retirees, apartment dwellers, multi-pet homes.

Pick the Havanese if

Allergy-sensitive families, retirees, apartment dwellers, multi-pet homes.

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