Bichon Frise vs Norwich Terrier
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Bichon Frise
Non-Sporting Group
Norwich Terrier
Terrier Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Bichon Frise Overview
Graceful and compact, the Bichon Frise showcases a white powder-puff appearance with a soft, dense coat that forms a rounded silhouette. Their dark, inquisitive eyes and black nose create an endearing expression, while their plumed tail curves gracefully over their back. Naturally cheerful and gentle-natured, these dogs combine aristocratic bearing with a merry, playful disposition.
Norwich Terrier Overview
Norwich Terriers are compact, sturdy dogs with a distinctive fox-like expression and alert bearing. Their wiry double coat comes in various shades of red, wheaten, black and tan, or grizzle. Standing 10 inches at the shoulder with a hardy frame, these spirited terriers feature pricked ears, dark oval eyes, and a slightly foxy face that gives them their characteristic keen expression.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Bichon Frises are less energetic than Norwich Terriers, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Bichon Frises require more grooming attention compared to Norwich Terriers.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Bichon Frises tend to be more reserved with strangers than Norwich Terriers.
- Trainability: Norwich Terriers may be slightly easier to train due to their Norwich Terrier's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Bichon Frises adapt better to apartment living, while Norwich Terriers typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Bichon Frise and Norwich Terrier, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Bichon Frise | Norwich Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Toy | Toy |
| Life Expectancy | 14-15 years | 12-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Non-Sporting Group | Terrier Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Bichon Frise | Norwich Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 10-12 inches 24-29 cm | 10-10 inches 25-25 cm |
| Weight | 12-18 lbs 5-8 kg | 12-12 lbs 5-5 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Infrequent | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Bichon Frise | Norwich Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Playful, Curious, Peppy | Affectionate, Alert, Curious |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Bichon Frise | Norwich Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Bichon Frise Temperament
The Bichon Frise is known for being playful, curious, peppy, making them excellent family dogs. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They're typically friendly with strangers, making them poor guard dogs but excellent social companions. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different lifestyles, though they still need regular exercise.
Norwich Terrier Temperament
The Norwich Terrier is characterized by being affectionate, alert, curious, which makes them great companions for families. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They generally welcome strangers, making them sociable companions rather than protective guardians. Their high energy requires substantial daily exercise and activities to keep them physically and mentally satisfied.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Bichon Frise and Norwich Terrier, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Bichon Frise
Rating: 5/5
Norwich Terrier
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Bichon Frise
Rating: 5/5
Norwich Terrier
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Bichon Frise
Rating: 3/5
Norwich Terrier
Rating: 4/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Bichon Frise
Rating: 2/5
Norwich Terrier
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Bichon Frise
Rating: 5/5
Norwich Terrier
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Bichon Frise Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Bichon Frises require moderate daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Bichon Frises require frequent grooming. This includes brushing several times per week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is recommended.
Norwich Terrier Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Norwich Terriers need substantial daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and more intense activities like running, swimming, or agility training.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Norwich Terriers require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Bichon Frise Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Allergies
- Patellar luxation
- Bladder stones
- Eye problems
- Dental disease
Norwich Terrier Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Tracheal collapse
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye problems
- Dental disease
- Epilepsy
Pros & Cons
Bichon Frise
Pros
- Hypoallergenic coat
- Excellent companion dog
- Good with children
- Adaptable to different living situations
- Long lifespan
- Cheerful personality
Cons
- High grooming maintenance
- Can be expensive to maintain
- Prone to separation anxiety
- Regular professional grooming required
- May be difficult to housebreak
Norwich Terrier
Pros
- Affectionate with family
- Good with children
- Adaptable
- Low maintenance grooming
Cons
- Can be stubborn
- Prone to barking
- Strong prey drive
- May be territorial
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Bichon Frise and Norwich Terrier, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.