Bichon Frise vs Pomeranian
Everything we know about the Bichon Frise and the Pomeranian, in the same order for both. Every figure comes from our own breed guides — follow the links under each column to read the detail.
| Trait | Bichon Frise | Pomeranian |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 24–29 cm (9.5–11.5 in) | 15–18 cm (6–7 in) |
| Weight | 5.4–8.2 kg (12–18 lb) | 1.4–3.2 kg (3–7 lb) |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years | 12–16 years |
| Coat | Double — dense undercoat, curly topcoat | Long, double, with a dense undercoat |
| Shedding | Very low — hair grows continuously rather than shedding | High — noticeable year-round, heavy when the coat blows |
| Grooming | Brushing several times a week; professional groom every 4–6 weeks | Brush several times a week, daily during a moult; bath every 3–4 weeks |
| Exercise | 30 min/day | 30–45 min/day |
| Good with | Children, other dogs, cats | Older children, other dogs and cats with proper introduction |
Which one suits you
Bichon Frise
Right for you if…
- You want a small, cheerful dog that suits a flat as well as a house
- There are children or other pets — Bichons are famously sociable
- Someone is usually home; this breed does not do well left alone all day
- You are happy to pay a groomer every month or two, on top of brushing
Wrong for you if…
- The house is empty all day — separation anxiety is a real risk
- You need a quiet dog; Bichons can be barky, especially when bored
- Professional grooming every four to six weeks is not in the budget
- You would rather not manage a breed prone to skin and ear allergies
Pomeranian
Right for you if…
- You live in a flat and want a dog that genuinely fits one
- You want an alert, characterful little dog rather than a quiet lap-warmer
- You will brush several times a week, and daily when the coat blows
- You can live with a dog that barks at things you cannot see
- You want a small breed that still tends to live 12–16 years
Wrong for you if…
- You have a toddler — a 3 lb dog is easily hurt by rough play
- You need a quiet dog, or you share thin walls with neighbours
- You want a coat you can ignore between grooms
- You want a dog that shrugs off being left alone all day
- You dislike hair on dark clothes and furniture