Bichon Frise vs. Rhodesian Bernard: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Bichon Frises or Rhodesian Bernards hypoallergenic, or neither?

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.

Unfortunately, the Rhodesian Bernard 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 Rhodesian Bernard dogs?

Affectionate
Playful
Sensitive
Cheerful
Gentle
Intelligent

Dignified
Independent
Happy
Sensitive
Intelligent
Friendly
Loyal
Gentle
Going
Social
Strong
Willed
Quiet
Mischievous

Shedding Level

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

2 / 5

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

3 / 5

Rhodesian Bernards are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Bichon Frise and Rhodesian Bernard breeds?

barbet, water dog

Rhodesian Ridgeback, Saint Bernard

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Bichon Frise and Rhodesian Bernard?

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

DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Bichon Frise and Rhodesian Bernard breeds first developed?

ancient times

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Bichon Frise and Rhodesian Bernard dogs?

Brown

Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Bichon Frise and Rhodesian Bernard?

Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Bichon Frise and Rhodesian Bernard breeds?

White
Cream

Red
Fawn
Black
Brindle

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Bichon Frise and Rhodesian Bernard breeds?

3 / 5

Bichon Frises have medium-length coats.

2 / 5

Rhodesian Bernards have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Bichon Frise and Rhodesian Bernard?

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Bichon Frise and Rhodesian Bernard?

Curly

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Bichon Frise and Rhodesian Bernard?

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.

A Rhodesian Bernard can have a litter of 6-8 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

5 / 5

Bichon Frises are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

4 / 5

Rhodesian Bernards are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

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

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Rhodesian Bernards 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 Rhodesian Bernard breeds?

Patellar Luxation
Hip Dysplasia
Dental Disease
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Distichiasis
Gastric Torsion
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia
Dermoid Sinus
Heart Conditions
Wobbler's Syndrome

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Bichon Frise and Rhodesian Bernard?

Cataract
Urolithiasis
Allergies
Tooth Loss
Hemophilia
Atopic Dermatitis
Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Entropion
Deafness
Cataracts
Pyotraumatic Dermatitis
Diabetes
Hypothyroidism
Degenerative Myelopathy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Bichon Frise and Rhodesian Bernard breeds?

Eye
Blood
Knee
Heart
X-Rays
Dental Examination
Allergy Tests

Eye
Hip
Elbow
Hearing
Heart
Thyroid Tests
Blood And Urine Analysis

Social Needs

Bichon Frise vs Rhodesian Bernard social needs comparison

5 / 5

Bichon Frise and Rhodesian Bernard 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.

Sleeping Need

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

4 / 5

Bichon Frises are known for their relaxed and calm nature and enjoy long periods of sleep.

3 / 5

Rhodesian Bernards have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Bichon Frise vs Rhodesian Bernard?

3 / 5

2 / 5

Roaming urge

Bichon Frise vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

Prey Drive

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

1 / 5

3 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Bichon Frises or Rhodesian Bernards?

Both Bichon Frise and Rhodesian Bernard are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Bichon Frise or Rhodesian Bernard walk each 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.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Rhodesian Bernard, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Bichon Frises or Rhodesian Bernards require more exercise?

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.

In general most Rhodesian Bernards usually need at least 45 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 Rhodesian Bernards?

5 / 5

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

2 / 5

The Rhodesian Bernard has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

Brushing Frequency

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

Bichon Frise and Rhodesian Bernard 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 Rhodesian Bernards?

Pin Brush
Comb
Scissors
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

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

For an average 11-16 pound (5 - 7 kg) Bichon Frise feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 110-130 pound (50 - 59 kg) Rhodesian Bernard feed 3.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

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

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

The average cost of a Rhodesian Bernard is somewhere $3.90 - $4.20 per day.

Monthly Cost

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

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.

The average per month expenses of a Rhodesian Bernard is between $112 - $126. This makes an average of $1344 - $1512 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.

Sensitivity Level

How do Bichon Frise and Rhodesian Bernard compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Apartment Friendly

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

5 / 5

Bichon Frises make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

3 / 5

Rhodesian Bernards are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Child Friendly

Do Bichon Frises or Rhodesian Bernards have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

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

5 / 5

Rhodesian Bernards make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Senior-friendly

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

4 / 5

5 / 5

Cat Friendly

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

5 / 5

Bichon Frises are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

4 / 5

Rhodesian Bernards are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Dog Friendly

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

5 / 5

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

4 / 5

Rhodesian Bernards 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 Rhodesian Bernard dogs interact with other pets?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Stranger Friendly

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

5 / 5

Bichon Frises are highly friendly around strangers.

3 / 5

Rhodesian Bernards are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Bichon Frise and Rhodesian Bernard?

4 / 5

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

3 / 5

Rhodesian Bernards 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 Rhodesian Bernards compare?

3 / 5

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