Border Terrier vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison

Border Terrier vs Bichon Frise - Breed ComparisonBorder Terrier is originated from United Kingdom but Bichon Frise is originated from Spain. Border Terrier may grow 10 cm / 4 inches higher than Bichon Frise. Both Border Terrier and Bichon Frise are having almost same weight. Border Terrier may live 4 years less than Bichon Frise. Both Border Terrier and Bichon Frise has almost same litter size. Border Terrier requires Moderate maintenance. But Bichon Frise requires Low maintenance

History

border terrier - historyAs a working dog, the Border Terrier comes from the border country between England and Scotland. To be more specific, the dog originates from the rough hill country in the areas on both sides of the border between England and Scotland – an area known as 'The Border Country'. The breed was developed by the farmers, using the Terriers to help contain the fox population.

It is believed that they are related to other kinds of terriers which also came from this region such as the Bedlington- and Dandie Dinmont Terriers. The first Border Terrier was registered in 1913 with the British Kennel Club. Later, the Border Terrier Club was also formed. A club for these dogs was also registered in the United States in 1930.

bichon frise - historyContrary to the myths and many of the tales of the history of the Bichon Frise, the breed was originally developed in Spain. Later specific trait development occurred in France to give us the lap dog Bichon Frise that we know today. The original Spanish dog – the Bichon – was a water – sailing dog. It was descended from the poodle breeds crossed with either the water spaniels or the Barbet. These early dogs were friendly and happy and because of this, sailors carried them with them on their ships and even bartered them for supplies. Prior to the 14th century the Spanish probably brought them to the Canary Islands. Later in the 14th century they we discovered again by Italian sailors who returned them to Europe where they lived in the courts of the nobility. During the Renaissance and after the French fell in love with the breed while the Spanish continue to enjoy their presence.

In the late 19th century in France the breed fell out of popularity and became street dogs and circus and fair dogs. They also worked with organ grinders and assisted the blind. In the early 20th century, the Societe Centrale Canine, the National Kennel Club of France, adopted the breed’s official standard – while they were still known as both the Bichon and the Tenerife. The popularity of the breed at this time is heavily attributed to “The Adventures of TinTIn” , by Herge, which featured a small, white, fluffy fox terrier. Then the president of the Federation Cynoloqique Internationale presented a new name for the breed based on its characteristics. The name Bichon Frise kept the Bichon heritage and added “curly” the meaning of Frise. Under this name the breed was admitted to the Societe Centrale Canine stud book in October of 1934.

The Bichon Frise came to the United States for the first time in 19554 and was admitted to the American Kennel Club Stud Book in 1972. They entered the non-sporting group of the AKC in 1973. By 2001 the Bichon Frise, J.R., won the Westminster Dog Show. In 1976, the Bichon Frise came to Australia, imported by Harry and Margaret Begg who oversaw the growth of the breed there. Today there are 4 separate breeds believed to be descended from the original Bichon/Tenerife breeds – the Bichon Frise, the Bichon Bolognaise, the Maltese and the Havanese.

Description

border terrier puppy - descriptionThe Border Terrier is a small to medium sized dog, weighing roughly between 5- and 7kg and standing at anything between 28 and 40cm in height. With his dark brown eyes and keen, alert expression, and with ears dropping forward, people describe the head as being like that of an otter. He is a courageous worker and a loyal companion but some people may not take kindly to him wanting to dig under-, or climb over barriers to get out to follow a scent or to go exploring.

The Border Terrier is a rough coated dogs of medium size with narrow build. The dog’s height is slightly greater than the dog’s length. The coat can be tan and black or dark grey. Sometimes the coat is described as grizzle - dark tipped hairs which give an overlay of color to the tan or red coat. You can also possibly find some white on the muzzle or chest. He has a double coat, with the outer coat being short, dense and wiry. The tail is of medium length and the ears drop forward toward their cheeks.

bichon frise puppy - descriptionThe modern Bichon Frise is a white, small dog with a round skull and muzzle. The nose should be black and the eyes round and dark. Depending on the size of the dog, the legs and head are proportionate to the body, while the tail should be curly and long. Both the tail and the ears must not be docked. Their coat is as hypoallergenic as a dog gets. It is white, dense and for most Bichon Frise, it is curly. They should have black lips as well.

Characteristics

border terrier dog - characteristicsA Border Terrier is a dog that has to be part of the family. You can’t just stick him in your back yard as he will just pine away with unhappiness. Boredom and loneliness will cause him to bark and he has a loud bark. He’ll become destructive – characteristics that aren’t his fault because he didn’t ask to be bought and just stuck away.

Train and socialize your Border Terrier so that he becomes the great dog he is intended to be. He gets on well will children who have been taught to be kind to animals and he will get along with other pets in the home. The Border Terrier is an affectionate, sensitive dog and once trained he is willing to obey your commands.

The Border Terrier isn’t the greatest guard dog but is best known for his loving, devoted and loyal nature. He loves his food, and if you feed him well, provide him with a warm, dry place to sleep and provide him with lots of attention and exercise, you’ll have the most devoted and loving friend for life.

bichon frise dog - characteristicsThe Bichon Frise, according to the American Kennel Club is a cheerful and merry dog. They are gentle, playful, sensitive and affectionate. These dogs love people, are very social and like other dogs as well. They love to play with children and they are intelligent and affectionate. They were developed in their latter stages by the French to be “lap dogs” or companion animals. They are not territorial by nature but can become so if confined and encouraged. Start obedience training early and be consistent throughout their lives. They take to training easily if positive techniques are used. They do however, have a reputation for not taking well to housetraining. Be persistent

Health Problems

border terrier puppies - health problemsBorder Terriers are a healthy breed and with good food and plenty of love and attention, they can reach 14 years of age. It is to be noted with this dog breed that he doesn’t show signs of pain or sickness easily so you want to watch him closely.

Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome - This is a disease which can be evident from 7 months of age already. The disease was once known as Spike's Disease, and its an hereditary disease of Border Terrier dogs. The cause of the disease is unknown but it is similar to canine epilepsy. It is thought that a contributing factor can be gluten, so a gluten-free diet will be recommended.

Heart defects can also affect Border Terriers, one of which is pulmonic stenosis. This is a narrowing of the valve which separates the right chamber of the heart from the lungs. It can ultimately lead to arrhythmia to congestive heart failure. He’ll have difficulty with breathing, suffer from abdominal distension and won’t be able to exercise properly.

bichon frise puppies - health problemsThe coat of the Bichon Frise can easily become matted if not brushed or combed every day. Severe matting can lead to a hematoma in their ears. They are also very prone to ear infections so paying a lot of attention to their ears is imperative. They are will chew and scratch themselves if not groomed well and this can cause skin infections and conditions. They might have allergies to fleas, pollen, chemicals, and dust. The patella (knee cap) can be loose, diabetes, cataracts and heart disease also affect the Bichon Frise. In the United Kingdom the number one cause of death for the breed is old age -13 plus years, with 21% dying of cancer. In North America cancer is the number one killer as it is for most dogs. The Bichon might also be afflicted with hematologic disorders such as AIHA (Autoimmune hemolytic anemia) and ITP (Immune-mediated thrombocytopenia) which while less common than cancer will kill the dog much earlier in life than cancer. The other condition that the Bichon Frise is prone to are liver shunts. If found early they can be surgically corrected but most are not, and liver failure is eventually the cause of death.

Caring The Pet

Grooming

border terrier dogs - caringBecause the topcoat of the Border Terrier is dense and harsh with a thick undercoat, he will require moderate grooming. He doesn’t shed too much. Brush your Border Terrier twice a week to remove dead hair and keep your dog’s coat healthy. As part of his grooming, keep his nails clipped as well as his teeth checked and brushed at least twice a week. Make use of specialized dog toothpaste and brush.

Diet

The Border Terrier can quickly put on weight so it is important to feed him according to the instructions on the packaging if you’re going to be feeding him with commercially manufactured dog food. Make sure its a quality brand and one which caters for his energy requirements.Dogs are individuals, and they don’t all eat the same amount. As a responsible dog owner, it is up to you to monitor your pet and understand his unique requirements.

Feeding

bichon frise dogs - caringBeing a small dog, the Bichon Frise is susceptible to obesity and that condition will be terminal in the end for this breed. So make sure you do not overfeed your Bichon Frise. The same is true with the use of treats. The Bichon loves treats and loves the association with treats of having pleased you. They should be fed small meals – about ¼ cup of good high quality dry food twice a day.

Health issues

As previously mentioned the Bichon Frise is susceptible to:

Hematomas and infections of the ear if not groomed well and consistently.

Cancer is number one killer.

Hematological Issues are deadlier than cancer.

Liver shunts are a very serious concern.

Exercise and games

Though the Bichon Frise is not an overly active dog, they do love to play. They are characterized by short bursts of activity followed by long periods of rest. They can be worn out just by running around the house. You must play with them everyday as well as take them on a walk each day. Bichons are fast and agile and do well in agility trials. They also like to compete in rally and obedience trials. Most of all they love to and need to play with their people every day.

Basic Information

Group:
Terrier dog
Companion dog
Origin:
United Kingdom
Spain
Height Male:
33 - 40 cm
12 - 16 inches
23 - 30 cm
9 - 12 inches
Height Female:
28 - 36 cm
11 - 15 inches
21 - 29 cm
8 - 12 inches
Weight Male:
5 - 7 kg
11 - 16 pounds
5 - 10 kg
11 - 23 pounds
Weight Female:
5 - 7 kg
11 - 16 pounds
4 - 8 kg
8 - 18 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
12 - 19 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 8
4 - 6
Size:
Small dog
Small dog
Other Names:
Russian Bear Schnauzer, Munich Schnauzer, Munchener, Riesenschnauzer
Bichón Tenerife • Bichon à poil frisé Bichon
Colors Available:
Tan and black, red or dark grey. Sometimes Grizzle - dark tipped hairs and overlay of color
white
Coat:
Short, dense and springy
Medium length, silky texture with corkscrew curls
Shedding:
Minimal
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Friendly, Intelligent, Loving, Playful, Social, Stubborn, Sweet
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
Yes
Yes
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Boston Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  2. Jack Russell Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  3. Miniature Schnauzer vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  4. Cairn Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  5. Border Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Border Terrier vs Australian Terrier - Breed Comparison
  7. Border Terrier vs American Hairless Terrier - Breed Comparison
  8. Rat Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Scottish Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  10. Patterdale Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  11. Bull Terrier Miniature vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  12. Norwich Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  13. Norfolk Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  14. English White Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  15. Parson Russell Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  16. Russell Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  17. Feist vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  18. Manchester Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  19. Dandie Dinmont Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  20. Miniature Fox Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Cesky Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  22. Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  23. Schnorkie vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  24. Sealyham Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  25. Chilean Fox Terrier vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Mal-Shi vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  27. Alaskan Klee Kai vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  28. Coton De Tulear vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  29. Japanese Spitz vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  30. Malti-Pom vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  31. PekePoo vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  32. Schipperke vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  33. Fruggle vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  34. Schweenie vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  35. Lhasapoo vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  36. Meliteo Kinidio vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  37. Hawaiian Poi Dog vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  38. Prazsky Krysarik vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  39. Pugalier vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  40. Kyi-Leo vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  41. Tsvetnaya Bolonka vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  42. Muggin vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  43. Pomeranian vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  44. Maltese vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  45. Pug vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  46. Boston Terrier vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  47. Maltipoo vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  48. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  49. Bichon Frise vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  50. Bichon Frise vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds