Bichon FriseVSHavanese

The Bichon Frise is known for being playful, curious, peppy, while the Havanese is typically described as cheerful, intelligent, outgoing. These distinct personality traits mean each breed offers a different kind of companionship.

Both breeds share a similar playfulness level at 5/5, so you can expect comparable levels of fun and games from either one.

The Bichon Frise is a small breed standing 23–30 cm (9–12 in) tall and weighing 3–5 kg (7–11 lbs). In comparison, the Havanese is a small breed at 22–29 cm (9–11 in) and 3–6 kg (7–13 lbs).

These two breeds are quite similar in size, so space and food requirements will be comparable for either choice.

The Bichon Frise has a curly coat available in white, white and cream, white and apricot, while the Havanese sports a long coat in white, black, havana brown, fawn, tobacco. Coat type significantly impacts grooming needs and shedding, which we cover below.

The Bichon Frise has moderate energy (3/5) with low exercise needs (2/5). The Havanese has moderate energy (3/5) and low exercise needs (2/5).

Both breeds have similar exercise requirements, so your daily activity routine won't change much regardless of which you choose. Plan for regular walks and play sessions to keep either breed content.

Both breeds shed at a similar rate (1/5), so you can expect comparable amounts of loose fur from either one.

The Bichon Frise demands more grooming attention with a score of 5/5, while the Havanese is lower-maintenance at 4/5. The Bichon Frise's curly coat requires regular brushing and professional grooming sessions, adding to the overall cost of ownership.

Annual grooming costs average around $500 for the Bichon Frise and $400 for the Havanese. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.

The Bichon Frise has a lifespan of 14–15 years, while the Havanese lives 13–15 years. The Bichon Frise tends to live longer on average.

Both breeds score 4/5 for health robustness, meaning they share similar overall health profiles.

Common health issues for the Bichon Frise include patellar luxation, bladder stones, allergies, dental disease. The Havanese is prone to patellar luxation, cataracts, deafness, heart murmurs. Regular vet checkups and health screenings are essential for both breeds.

Annual vet costs average $400 for the Bichon Frise and $400 for the Havanese. Pet insurance is worth considering for either breed.

Both breeds are equally trainable at 4/5. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work well with either breed.

Both breeds match in intelligence at 4/5, so expect similar learning speeds and mental stimulation needs from either choice.

Regardless of which breed you choose, early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training are key to raising a well-behaved dog. Puppy classes are a great investment for either breed.

Both breeds score 5/5 with children, making them equally suitable for families. Either breed can be a wonderful addition to a household with kids.

The initial purchase price for a Bichon Frise ranges from $700–$2,000, while a Havanese typically costs $1,000–$2,500. The Havanese is the more expensive breed to purchase.

Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $1,260 for the Bichon Frise and $1,160 for the Havanese. The Bichon Frise is more expensive to maintain year over year, mainly due to grooming expenses.

Monthly food costs run about $30 for the Bichon Frise and $30 for the Havanese. Over a typical lifespan, the total cost of ownership can differ by thousands of dollars, so it's worth factoring in the long-term financial commitment.