If you’re searching for a small, fluffy, hypoallergenic companion dog, you’ve probably narrowed your choices down to two breeds: the Havanese and the Bichon Frise. Both are charming, affectionate lap dogs with gorgeous white coats and friendly personalities. But despite their similarities, these breeds have distinct differences that could make one a much better fit for your lifestyle than the other.

The Havanese and Bichon Frise are often confused for one another—and it’s easy to see why. Both breeds are compact, cheerful, and bred specifically to be human companions. Both are excellent choices for apartment dwellers, people with allergies, and families looking for a devoted furry friend. Yet the Havanese tends to be more adaptable and slightly needier, while the Bichon is often more independent and playful.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare every aspect of these two beloved breeds. You’ll learn about their history, temperament, grooming needs, health concerns, training challenges, and costs. By the end, you’ll know exactly which breed matches your personality, living situation, and expectations for a canine companion.

⚠️ Quick Summary: Havanese are slightly smaller, more velcro-like, and better with young children. Bichon Frises are more independent, higher energy, and require more frequent professional grooming. Both are excellent family dogs with minimal shedding.

Breed History and Origins

The Havanese: Cuba’s National Dog

The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba and the only dog breed native to the island nation. This breed descended from small dogs brought to Cuba by Spanish settlers in the 1500s, likely including now-extinct breeds like the Blanquito de la Habana. Over centuries, the Havanese evolved in relative isolation, developing into a distinct breed perfectly suited to Cuba’s climate and the companionship needs of Havana’s aristocracy.

During the Cuban Revolution in 1959, many wealthy Cubans fled to the United States, bringing their beloved Havanese with them. These refugees’ dogs became the foundation of the Havanese breed in America. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Havanese in 1996, and the breed has grown steadily in popularity ever since.

The Havanese was bred exclusively as a companion dog—never for hunting, herding, or guarding. This singular purpose created a breed that lives to be with people. Their name comes from Havana, Cuba’s capital city, where they were cherished by wealthy families as devoted lap dogs and entertaining companions.

The Bichon Frise: Mediterranean Charmer

The Bichon Frise has a longer and more varied history than the Havanese. This breed likely descended from the Barbet (a water spaniel) and was developed around the Mediterranean in the 13th-14th centuries. The Bichon became particularly popular with Spanish sailors who traded the dogs around the Mediterranean islands, including Tenerife in the Canary Islands (hence one of the breed’s early names: Bichon Tenerife).

By the Renaissance, Bichon Frises had captured the hearts of European nobility. French and Italian aristocrats adored these small white dogs, and they frequently appeared in paintings alongside kings and queens. After the French Revolution, Bichons fell from royal favor and many became street performers, charming audiences with tricks taught by organ grinders and circus performers.

The breed was standardized in France in the 1930s and officially named “Bichon Frise” (meaning “curly lap dog”). The American Kennel Club recognized the Bichon Frise in 1972. Like the Havanese, the Bichon was bred purely for companionship, though their circus dog past gave them a slightly more independent and entertaining personality.

Physical Appearance and Size

Size Comparison

Both the Havanese and Bichon Frise are small dogs, but the Havanese is typically slightly smaller and lighter. Havanese usually stand 8.5 to 11.5 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 7 to 13 pounds. Bichon Frises are marginally larger, standing 9.5 to 11.5 inches tall and weighing 12 to 18 pounds.

In practice, a large Havanese and a small Bichon Frise can be nearly identical in size. However, on average, you’ll notice that Bichons tend to be stockier and more substantial. Havanese tend to be slightly more delicate in build, though both breeds are sturdier than they appear.

Characteristic	Havanese	Bichon Frise
Height	8.5 – 11.5 inches	9.5 – 11.5 inches
Weight	7 – 13 pounds	12 – 18 pounds
Build	Slightly longer than tall; rectangular	Compact and balanced; square
Lifespan	14 – 16 years	14 – 15 years

Coat and Colors

This is where these breeds really differ visually. The Havanese has a long, flowing, silky coat that can be straight or wavy. The coat is soft to the touch and drapes elegantly over the body. Havanese come in a wide variety of colors including white, cream, gold, black, silver, chocolate, and parti-colors (two or more colors).

The Bichon Frise, on the other hand, has a distinctive double coat that’s curly and dense. The outer coat is coarser and curlier, while the undercoat is soft and thick. This creates the breed’s signature “powder puff” appearance. Unlike the Havanese, Bichon Frises are always pure white (though some have cream or apricot shadings around the ears as puppies).

When groomed, Bichons are trimmed into a rounded shape that accentuates their fluffy appearance. Havanese can be kept in a long, natural coat or trimmed into a shorter “puppy cut.” Both breeds are considered hypoallergenic because they shed minimally, though no dog is 100% hypoallergenic.

Facial Features

The Havanese has large, dark, almond-shaped eyes that give the breed an expressive, sweet look. Their drop ears are covered with long, flowing hair. The overall facial expression is soft, gentle, and intelligent.

Bichon Frises have round, dark eyes that sparkle with curiosity and mischief. Their ears also drop but are heavily feathered with curly hair. When properly groomed, the Bichon’s face appears round and doll-like, contributing to their cheerful, playful expression.

Temperament and Personality

Havanese Personality: The Velcro Dog

Havanese are often called “velcro dogs” because they stick to their owners like glue. This breed craves human companionship more than almost any other. If you’re looking for an independent dog that’s content to entertain itself, the Havanese is not your breed. They want to be with you—on your lap, in your bed, following you from room to room.

The Havanese personality is gentle, affectionate, and eager to please. They’re naturally social dogs who typically get along well with everyone: children, strangers, other dogs, and even cats. Havanese rarely meet a person they don’t like, though they may be slightly reserved with new people until properly introduced.

These dogs are sensitive to their owner’s emotions and moods. If you’re sad, your Havanese will know and will offer comfort. If you’re happy and playful, they’ll match your energy. This emotional intelligence makes them excellent emotional support animals and therapy dogs.

Havanese have a playful, clownish side that emerges during playtime. They love to perform tricks, play games, and make their families laugh. However, they’re not as high-energy or as constantly “on” as some toy breeds—they’re happy to cuddle quietly when their people are relaxing.

Bichon Frise Personality: The Cheerful Entertainer

Bichon Frises are naturally cheerful, playful, and outgoing. While they love their families deeply, they’re generally more independent than Havanese. A Bichon is happy to entertain itself with toys for short periods and doesn’t need constant physical contact with humans.

This breed has a confident, almost cocky personality that reflects their history as circus performers. Bichons love being the center of attention and will perform tricks and antics to get laughs and applause. They’re natural showoffs in the best possible way.

Bichon Frises are typically more energetic and exuberant than Havanese. They approach life with enthusiasm and have a bouncy, springy gait that reflects their joyful outlook. This higher energy level means they need more active playtime and mental stimulation throughout the day.

Like Havanese, Bichons are social dogs who generally get along well with other pets and people. However, they can be slightly more territorial and may bark more frequently when strangers approach the home. They’re not aggressive watchdogs, but they’re more alert than the laid-back Havanese.

With Children

Both breeds can be excellent with children, but the Havanese generally has a slight edge for families with young kids. Havanese are extremely gentle and patient, tolerating the pokes, prods, and occasional roughness of small children better than most toy breeds. They’re also less fragile than they appear.

Bichon Frises are also good with children but can be slightly less tolerant of rough handling. They’re more likely to retreat or vocalize when overwhelmed by energetic kids. However, Bichons often have wonderful relationships with older children (ages 6+) who can engage in play without being too rough.

Both breeds are small enough that young children should be supervised to prevent accidental injuries to the dog. Neither breed is recommended for families with toddlers unless the dog is carefully monitored during interactions.

Exercise and Activity Needs

Havanese Exercise Requirements

Havanese have moderate exercise needs that are easily met in most households. A couple of 15-20 minute walks daily plus some indoor playtime is usually sufficient. They enjoy fetch, tug-of-war, and interactive puzzle toys but don’t require hours of vigorous exercise.

These dogs are highly adaptable to their owner’s activity level. If you’re a couch potato, your Havanese will happily be a couch potato with you. If you enjoy daily walks or hikes, your Havanese will enthusiastically join you (though their short legs mean they won’t be marathon running partners).

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for Havanese. Training sessions, puzzle toys, and interactive games keep their intelligent minds engaged. A bored Havanese may develop nuisance behaviors like excessive barking or destructive chewing.

Bichon Frise Exercise Requirements

Bichon Frises have higher energy levels and need more active exercise than Havanese. Plan on at least two 20-30 minute walks daily plus vigorous playtime. Bichons enjoy fetch, frisbee, agility training, and romping in safely fenced yards.

This breed has a playful, bouncy energy that needs an outlet. Without sufficient exercise, Bichons can become hyperactive, destructive, or develop behavioral problems. They’re more likely than Havanese to zoom around the house, do “zoomies,” or engage in high-energy play.

Bichons excel at canine sports like agility, rally obedience, and competitive obedience. Their circus dog heritage makes them natural performers who love learning new tricks and showing off their skills. Mental stimulation through training is essential for this intelligent breed.

Exercise Factor	Havanese	Bichon Frise
Daily Exercise Time	30-40 minutes	45-60 minutes
Energy Level	Moderate	Moderate to High
Playfulness	Moderate to High	High
Adaptability	Very High	Moderate

Grooming Requirements

Havanese Grooming

Havanese grooming can range from moderate to high-maintenance depending on coat length. If kept in a full, natural coat, daily brushing is essential to prevent mats and tangles. The silky hair can quickly become matted, especially behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar area.

Many Havanese owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” that’s trimmed to 1-2 inches all over. This significantly reduces grooming time to 2-3 times per week brushing. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks keeps the coat manageable and the dog looking neat.

Havanese require regular bathing (every 2-4 weeks), ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care. The hair around the eyes should be trimmed or tied back to prevent irritation. Despite the grooming commitment, many owners find the Havanese coat easier to manage than the Bichon’s curly coat.

Bichon Frise Grooming

Bichon Frise grooming is decidedly high-maintenance. The double coat requires brushing at least 4-5 times per week, and daily brushing is ideal to prevent mats. The curly texture traps dirt, debris, and loose hair, requiring more intensive grooming than the Havanese’s silky coat.

Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks is not optional for Bichons—it’s essential. The coat must be trimmed, shaped, and maintained to achieve the breed’s signature rounded appearance. Between professional appointments, owners must brush thoroughly and may need to do touch-up trimming around the eyes and paws.

Bichons need baths every 2-3 weeks, plus the same nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care as Havanese. The white coat shows dirt easily, so Bichons may need more frequent bathing than darker-colored Havanese. Tear staining can be an issue and requires daily cleaning around the eyes.

💡 Pro Tip: Budget $60-100 per professional grooming session for either breed. Bichons will need grooming more frequently (every 4-6 weeks) compared to Havanese in a puppy cut (every 6-8 weeks), making annual grooming costs significantly higher for Bichons.

Shedding and Allergies

Both breeds are considered hypoallergenic and shed minimally. However, “hypoallergenic” doesn’t mean “allergen-free”—both breeds produce dander, which is the actual allergen. The low shedding simply means less hair carrying dander around the home.

Havanese shed slightly more than Bichon Frises, though both are excellent choices for people with mild to moderate dog allergies. Regular brushing and bathing reduce dander and keep allergen levels low. People with severe allergies should spend time with the specific breed before committing to ownership.

Training and Intelligence

Trainability Comparison

Both Havanese and Bichon Frises are intelligent dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement training. However, their training approaches differ slightly due to personality differences. Havanese are typically more eager to please and focused on their owners, making them slightly easier to train for most people.

Bichons are equally intelligent but can be more independent and easily distracted. They have a “what’s in it for me?” attitude that requires more motivation through treats, praise, and play. Training sessions should be short, fun, and varied to keep a Bichon’s attention.

Both breeds excel at learning tricks and commands. Their circus dog and companion dog heritage means they genuinely enjoy performing and showing off their skills. Neither breed responds well to harsh corrections—positive reinforcement is the only effective training method.

Housetraining Challenges

Here’s an area where both breeds can be challenging: housetraining. Small dogs in general are notoriously difficult to housetrain, and both Havanese and Bichons fit this pattern. Their small bladders mean frequent potty breaks, and accidents are common during the training process.

Bichon Frises have a slightly worse reputation for housetraining difficulties. They can be stubborn about going outside in bad weather and may prefer indoor potty pads indefinitely. Consistency, frequent trips outside, crate training, and patience are essential.

Havanese can also be challenging to housetrain, but they’re generally more motivated to please their owners and may catch on slightly faster. Both breeds benefit from bell training or scheduled potty breaks every 2-3 hours during the housetraining phase.

Barking Tendencies

Bichon Frises tend to be more vocal than Havanese. They’ll bark at strangers approaching the house, unusual noises, or to get attention. This doesn’t make them aggressive, but they can be yappy if not trained properly. Early training to reduce excessive barking is important for apartment living.

Havanese are generally quieter and less prone to nuisance barking. They may bark to alert you to visitors but typically don’t bark excessively. However, a bored or anxious Havanese can develop barking problems, so mental stimulation and companionship are important.

Health Concerns and Lifespan

Common Havanese Health Issues

Havanese are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 14-16 years. However, like all purebred dogs, they’re prone to certain genetic health conditions. Responsible breeders screen for these issues before breeding.

The most common health concerns in Havanese include:

• Luxating Patella: Kneecap dislocation affecting 20-25% of the breed
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): Inherited eye disease leading to blindness
• Cataracts: Clouding of the eye lens, can occur at any age
• Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: Hip joint deterioration in young dogs
• Heart Murmurs: Can range from benign to serious
• Deafness: More common in dogs with white or piebald coats
• Liver Shunt: Abnormal blood flow around the liver

Common Bichon Frise Health Issues

Bichon Frises typically live 14-15 years and are also generally healthy. They share some health concerns with Havanese but have their own breed-specific issues as well.

Common Bichon Frise health problems include:

• Luxating Patella: Also common in Bichons, though slightly less prevalent than in Havanese
• Bladder Stones: Bichons are particularly prone to calcium oxalate stones
• Dental Disease: Small mouths lead to crowded teeth and periodontal problems
• Allergies: Skin allergies and food sensitivities are common
• Hip Dysplasia: Less common than in larger breeds but still occurs
• Cataracts: Can develop with age
• Cushing’s Disease: Overproduction of cortisol, more common in older Bichons

Health Screening and Vet Costs

When purchasing a puppy from either breed, ask the breeder for health clearances on the parents. For Havanese, this should include OFA certifications for patellas and hips, CERF eye certifications, and cardiac clearances. Bichon breeders should provide similar clearances plus screening for bladder stone formation.

Annual vet costs for both breeds are comparable, typically ranging from $500-800 for routine care (vaccinations, checkups, dental cleanings). Emergency or chronic health issues can cost thousands of dollars, making pet insurance worth considering for both breeds.

Health Factor	Havanese	Bichon Frise
Average Lifespan	14-16 years	14-15 years
Major Concerns	Luxating patella, PRA, cataracts	Bladder stones, allergies, dental disease
Overall Health	Generally healthy	Generally healthy
Annual Vet Costs	$500-800	$600-900

Cost of Ownership

Initial Purchase Price

Havanese puppies from reputable breeders typically cost $1,500-$3,000. Show-quality puppies or those from champion bloodlines can cost $3,500-$5,000 or more. Rescue Havanese can be adopted for $300-$600 through breed-specific rescue organizations.

Bichon Frise puppies have a similar price range of $1,000-$2,500 from quality breeders. Show-quality Bichons may cost $3,000-$4,000. Rescue Bichons are available through shelters and rescues for $200-$500.

Be extremely cautious of puppies priced significantly below these ranges. Reputable breeders invest heavily in health testing, quality care, and proper socialization. “Bargain” puppies often come from puppy mills or backyard breeders and may have serious health or behavioral issues.

Ongoing Costs

Beyond the initial purchase, both breeds require significant ongoing expenses. Grooming is the biggest difference—Bichon Frises cost more annually due to more frequent professional grooming needs.

Annual costs for Havanese:

• Food: $300-500
• Professional grooming (6-8 visits): $480-800
• Routine vet care: $500-800
• Supplies, toys, treats: $200-400
• Pet insurance (optional): $300-600
• Total: $1,780-$3,100 per year

Annual costs for Bichon Frise:

• Food: $350-550
• Professional grooming (8-10 visits): $640-1,000
• Routine vet care: $600-900
• Supplies, toys, treats: $200-400
• Pet insurance (optional): $300-600
• Total: $2,090-$3,450 per year

Living Situations and Lifestyle Compatibility

Apartment Living

Both breeds are excellent choices for apartment living due to their small size and moderate exercise needs. Havanese adapt particularly well to small spaces because of their calm demeanor and lower energy levels. They’re content to curl up on the couch for hours as long as they’re near their people.

Bichon Frises also do well in apartments but require more active play and exercise. They’re more likely to get restless if cooped up too long without physical activity. Their tendency toward barking can be a concern in apartments with thin walls, so training is essential.

Houses with Yards

While neither breed requires a yard, both enjoy having outdoor space to explore. Havanese are less likely to patrol or use the yard independently—they prefer to be wherever their humans are. If you’re inside, your Havanese is probably inside too, even if the yard is accessible.

Bichons are more likely to enjoy and utilize a fenced yard for independent play and exploration. They’ll happily romp around outside, chase butterflies, and entertain themselves for short periods. However, they shouldn’t be left outside alone for long periods as they crave social interaction.

Climate Considerations

Havanese were bred in Cuba’s warm, tropical climate and handle heat reasonably well (though all dogs need shade and water in hot weather). They’re less tolerant of extreme cold and should wear sweaters or coats during winter walks in cold climates. Their low body fat and small size make them vulnerable to hypothermia.

Bichon Frises have a thicker double coat that provides more insulation in cold weather. They tolerate cooler temperatures better than Havanese but still aren’t cold-weather dogs. In hot weather, the thick white coat can make them prone to overheating, so air conditioning and limited sun exposure are important.

Work Schedules and Alone Time

This is where the breeds diverge significantly. Havanese struggle with being left alone and are prone to separation anxiety. If you work full-time outside the home, a Havanese may not be the right breed unless you can arrange doggy daycare, a dog walker, or work-from-home arrangements.

Bichon Frises handle alone time better than Havanese, though they still prefer company. They can typically tolerate 4-6 hours alone if properly exercised and mentally stimulated before you leave. Crate training and leaving puzzle toys can help prevent boredom and anxiety.

Neither breed should be left alone for 8-10 hours regularly. Both are companion breeds that need significant human interaction. If your lifestyle requires a dog that’s truly independent, consider a different breed entirely.

⚠️ Warning: Separation anxiety is a serious issue in both breeds but especially in Havanese. Signs include destructive chewing, excessive barking, house soiling, and panicked behavior when alone. This isn’t just bad behavior—it’s genuine distress that requires professional training or behavioral modification.

Which Breed Is Right for Different Owners?

Best for First-Time Dog Owners

Both breeds can work for first-time owners, but Havanese have a slight edge. Their eager-to-please personality, gentler temperament, and slightly lower grooming demands make them more forgiving of beginner mistakes. They’re less stubborn and more focused on their owners during training.

Bichons can also be good first dogs but require more patience with housetraining and more commitment to professional grooming. First-time owners should be prepared for the grooming investment and the breed’s more independent streak.

Best for Families with Children

Havanese are generally the better choice for families with young children (under 6 years old). Their patient, gentle nature and higher tolerance for handling make them safer around energetic kids. They’re also slightly less fragile than some toy breeds.

Bichon Frises are excellent with older children (6+) who can play appropriately and respect the dog’s boundaries. Active families who enjoy outdoor activities might prefer the Bichon’s higher energy level and enthusiasm for play.

Best for Seniors

Both breeds can be wonderful companions for seniors, but the choice depends on the individual’s activity level. Less active seniors who want a cuddly lap dog should consider the Havanese. Their lower exercise needs, calmer demeanor, and devotion to their owner make them perfect companions for quiet lifestyles.

More active seniors who still enjoy daily walks and outdoor activities might prefer the Bichon’s energy and playfulness. However, seniors should consider whether they can manage the Bichon’s more intensive grooming needs or budget for frequent professional grooming.

Best for People with Allergies

Both breeds are excellent choices for people with dog allergies, but individual results vary. Some people find they react less to Havanese, while others do better with Bichons. The best approach is to spend time with both breeds before committing to ownership.

To minimize allergic reactions with either breed, maintain a strict grooming schedule, use HEPA air filters in the home, and establish dog-free zones like bedrooms. Regular bathing (every 2-3 weeks) reduces dander significantly.

Best for Active Lifestyles

Bichon Frises are better suited to moderately active owners who enjoy daily walks, trips to the dog park, and outdoor adventures. They have the stamina and enthusiasm to keep up with active lifestyles (within reason for a small dog).

Havanese can adapt to active lifestyles but won’t demand high levels of exercise. They’ll happily join you on walks and adventures but are equally content with quiet days at home. If you want a jogging partner or hiking companion, neither breed is ideal—both have short legs and limited endurance.

Best for Apartment Dwellers

Havanese are slightly better for apartment living due to their quieter nature and lower exercise requirements. They adapt well to small spaces and won’t go stir-crazy as easily as higher-energy breeds. Their tendency not to bark excessively is a bonus in multi-unit buildings.

Bichons also do fine in apartments but need more active play sessions and mental stimulation. Their barking tendency requires training to manage in apartment settings. They thrive in apartments with owners who can provide multiple walks and play sessions daily.

Pros and Cons Summary

Havanese Pros

• Extremely affectionate and devoted to family
• Gentle and patient with children
• Quieter and less prone to excessive barking
• Highly adaptable to owner’s lifestyle
• Come in many beautiful colors
• Slightly easier to train due to eagerness to please
• Lower grooming costs if kept in puppy cut
• Good for less active owners

Havanese Cons

• Prone to severe separation anxiety
• Cannot be left alone for long periods
• May be too clingy for some owners
• Requires daily grooming if kept in long coat
• Can be difficult to housetrain
• Sensitive and doesn’t handle harsh corrections
• Prone to luxating patella and eye problems

Bichon Frise Pros

• Cheerful, playful personality
• More independent and handles alone time better
• Higher energy for active families
• Confident and outgoing temperament
• Excellent at learning tricks and entertaining
• Beautiful white powder-puff appearance
• Better insulation for cold weather
• Generally friendly with everyone

Bichon Frise Cons

• High-maintenance grooming requirements
• More expensive grooming costs
• Tendency toward excessive barking
• Can be stubborn and independent during training
• More difficult to housetrain
• Higher energy requires more exercise
• Prone to bladder stones and allergies
• White coat shows dirt easily

Making Your Final Decision

Choosing between a Havanese and a Bichon Frise ultimately comes down to your lifestyle, personality, and what you want from a canine companion. Both breeds offer tremendous love, companionship, and joy—they just express it in slightly different ways.

Choose a Havanese if you want a devoted shadow who will follow you everywhere, if you work from home or have flexible schedules, if you prefer a quieter dog with moderate energy, or if you have young children who need a patient companion. The Havanese is the ultimate velcro dog for people who want constant canine companionship.

Choose a Bichon Frise if you want a more independent dog who can handle some alone time, if you enjoy more active play and exercise sessions, if you don’t mind higher grooming maintenance and costs, or if you want a cheerful, entertaining personality with lots of energy. The Bichon is perfect for owners who want an enthusiastic, playful companion.

Both breeds require significant time, financial investment, and commitment. Neither is a low-maintenance dog despite their small size. They need regular grooming, daily companionship, training, socialization, and veterinary care throughout their 14-16 year lifespan.

💡 Final Tip: Before making your decision, spend time with both breeds if possible. Visit breeders, attend dog shows, or volunteer at breed-specific rescues. The “right” breed is the one that fits your actual lifestyle—not the lifestyle you wish you had.

Finding a Reputable Breeder or Rescue

Breeder Red Flags

Whether you choose Havanese or Bichon Frise, finding a responsible breeder is critical. Avoid breeders who sell multiple breeds, always have puppies available, won’t let you visit their facility, or can’t provide health clearances on parent dogs. These are signs of puppy mills or backyard breeders.

Reputable breeders will interview you extensively, require contracts with health guarantees, and often have waiting lists. They’ll provide health clearances, allow facility visits, and genuinely care where their puppies go. They’re a resource for the life of your dog.

Breed-Specific Rescues

Both breeds have dedicated rescue organizations across the United States. Adopting an adult dog lets you skip the challenging puppy phase and potentially save a life. Many rescue dogs are well-trained, housetrained, and simply need a second chance.

Havanese rescue organizations include Havanese Rescue Inc. and regional rescues throughout the country. Bichon Frise rescues include Small Paws Rescue and Bichon Frise Rescue. Petfinder.com also lists both breeds available for adoption.

Quick Reference Summary

Havanese vs Bichon Frise: At a Glance

Size: Havanese slightly smaller (7-13 lbs) vs Bichon (12-18 lbs)

Coat: Havanese silky and flowing in many colors; Bichon curly and white only

Grooming: Havanese moderate to high; Bichon high-maintenance

Personality: Havanese velcro/clingy; Bichon more independent

Energy: Havanese moderate; Bichon moderate to high

Exercise needs: Havanese 30-40 min daily; Bichon 45-60 min daily

Alone time tolerance: Havanese poor; Bichon moderate

With children: Havanese excellent; Bichon good (better with older kids)

Barking: Havanese low to moderate; Bichon moderate to high

Training: Havanese eager to please; Bichon more independent

Housetraining: Both challenging; Bichon slightly worse

Lifespan: Both 14-16 years

Annual cost: Havanese $1,780-$3,100; Bichon $2,090-$3,450

Best for: Havanese for stay-at-home owners/young families; Bichon for active owners/older kids

Final Thoughts

Both the Havanese and Bichon Frise are exceptional companion dogs that have brought joy to families for centuries. You truly can’t go wrong with either breed if you’re prepared for the commitment they require. These aren’t low-maintenance dogs you can leave in the backyard—they’re family members who need to be integrated into your daily life.

The Havanese offers unmatched devotion and adaptability for owners who can provide constant companionship. The Bichon Frise brings cheerful energy and entertaining antics for more active households. Both will shower you with affection, make you laugh with their playful antics, and become an irreplaceable part of your family.

Take your time with this decision. Research breeders thoroughly, consider adopting from rescues, and be honest about your lifestyle and capabilities. The right choice isn’t about which breed is “better”—it’s about which breed is better for YOU.

Whichever breed you choose, you’re in for 14-16 years of unconditional love, companionship, and joy. Welcome to the wonderful world of small, fluffy, affectionate dogs. Your life is about to get a whole lot furrier—and infinitely better.

Share your experience! Do you have a Havanese or Bichon Frise? Which breed did you choose and why? What advice would you give someone deciding between these two wonderful breeds? Drop your thoughts in the comments below—your experience could help another family make the perfect choice!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences in grooming needs between Havanese and Bichon Frise dogs?

Havanese grooming can vary from moderate to high-maintenance, particularly if kept in a long coat, requiring daily brushing to prevent mats. In contrast, Bichon Frises have a high-maintenance grooming requirement due to their curly double coat, necessitating brushing at least 4-5 times per week and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks.

Which breed is better for families with young children?

Havanese are generally better suited for families with young children due to their gentle and patient nature, making them more tolerant of rough handling. Bichon Frises can also be good with children but are more likely to retreat or vocalize when overwhelmed, so they are better suited for families with older kids.

How do the exercise needs of Havanese and Bichon Frise compare?

Havanese require moderate exercise, typically needing about 30-40 minutes of daily activity, while Bichon Frises have higher energy levels and need around 45-60 minutes of exercise each day. Both breeds enjoy playtime, but Bichons tend to need more vigorous activities to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

Are Havanese and Bichon Frise good choices for apartment living?

Yes, both breeds are excellent for apartment living due to their small size. Havanese tend to adapt better to small spaces and have lower energy levels, while Bichon Frises require more active playtime to prevent restlessness but can also thrive in apartments with proper exercise and training.

What are common health issues to watch for in Havanese and Bichon Frise dogs?

Common health issues in Havanese include luxating patella, progressive retinal atrophy, and cataracts. Bichon Frises may face challenges like bladder stones, dental disease, and skin allergies. It's essential to choose a reputable breeder who screens for these conditions to ensure the health of your puppy.