Queensland Heeler vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison

Queensland Heeler vs Bichon Frise - Breed ComparisonQueensland Heeler is originated from Australia but Bichon Frise is originated from Spain. Queensland Heeler may grow 21 cm / 9 inches higher than Bichon Frise. Queensland Heeler may weigh 12 kg / 27 pounds more than Bichon Frise. Queensland Heeler may live 4 years less than Bichon Frise. Both Queensland Heeler and Bichon Frise has almost same litter size. Both Queensland Heeler and Bichon Frise requires Low maintenance.

History

queensland heeler - historyAnother name for Queensland Heeler is Australian Cattle Dog or Blue Heeler.

These dogs have always been known for herding cattle. The term ‘Heeler’ comes from the dog’s working style – nipping and biting at the cattle’s hooves.

He was was an Australian cattle dog for Australian settlers in the 1800s. It is believed that Thomas Hall created one of the foundations of the Australian Cattle Dog breed by crossing crossing sheepdogs with Dingos.

The Blue-colored dogs have been the most popular, being known as the Blue Heeler.

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

queensland heeler puppy - descriptionThe Queensland Heeler is a medium sized dog that stands between 43 and 51cm in height, both male and female. The dog weighs in the region of 15 to 22kg.

He has a short double coat with colors being blue, mottled blue and also red speckled. You’ll also find black and tan coloring on this active dog.

He is strong, lean and muscular with medium sized ears that are erect. The eyes are dark and alert, the legs straight and strong. The tail can be docked or left long.

Temperament:

The Australian Cattle Dog is a high-energy working dog that you won’t easily find lying around. The alert eyes are consistently looking around for action and he can’t be bored otherwise he could resort to digging or other destructive behavior.

He is loving to his entire human family, but being particularly attached to just one family member. He is also protective, taking his guarding role of his family seriously.

He gets on well with children and other pets but you’ve just got to keep your eyes on him around children as when excited he can give a nip or two.

Training and socialization will be important for this dog, particularly because he can be strong-headed, willful and stubborn.

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

queensland heeler dog - characteristicsActive, intelligent, feisty, brave, playful, loving – these are just some of the wonderful characteristics you get when you bring a Queensland Heeler into your home.

True, he is independent, self-willed and stubborn, but training and socialization can take away all the rough edges.

He forms a strong bond with his human owner, and once you’ve had one of these amazing dogs in your life, you’ll be convinced that dogs are truly man’s best friend.

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

queensland heeler puppies - health problemsAustralian Cattle Dogs are healthy. Every dog, even the most healthiest breeds, can succumb to some of the common dog illnesses there are.

Deafness:

This is an inherited condition, so if you’re looking for a puppy, be careful about the breeder you buy from.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is another inherited condition where the thighbone of the dog doesn't fit properly into the hip joint. Your dog is usually so active but with this problem he may well be in pain and actually be lame. Your pet can even develop arthritis . The idea is to get your pet to the vet because it can be unbearable to see him in pain and unable to get around.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy:

This eye disease can mean deterioration of the retina. You'll recognize the signs when you see your dog unable to navigate around your home during the night. He is night blind but later on he can’t see during the day either.

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

queensland heeler dogs - caringTo cope with his life on the Australian Outback, the Queensland Heeler is known to be a low maintenance dog.

The thick coat does shed and it can get dusty so a good brush twice a week is all that is basically required for this dog. If his nails don’t wear down naturally, you will need to have them trimmed. As with every dog, you will need to give attention to his ears and teeth.

Exercise:

This is an extremely active dog. He is going to be needing both mental and physical stimulation to avoid boredom, after all he is used to an active lifestyle herding cattle. Hikes, swimming, running – you name it – he’ll join you with all your activities.

Diet:

Your Queensland Heeler is such a vibrant dog, full of the joys of living, and you want to ensure he has good food to eat to ensure he stays like that.

For convenience you get some excellent commercially manufactured dog foods. Your Blue Heeler is such a wonderful companion dog that you want to spoil him a bit and give him some delicious home-made food too. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots are a healthy choice for your pet – plain and simple just like dogs love it. Chop it up and add it into the high quality dry kibble a couple of times a week.

Some raw meat added in from time to time will help his skin and coat remain healthy. Never leave him without a constant source of fresh, cool water.

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:
Herding dogs
Companion dog
Origin:
Australia
Spain
Height Male:
43 - 51 cm
16 - 21 inches
23 - 30 cm
9 - 12 inches
Height Female:
43 - 51 cm
16 - 21 inches
21 - 29 cm
8 - 12 inches
Weight Male:
15 - 22 kg
33 - 49 pounds
5 - 10 kg
11 - 23 pounds
Weight Female:
15 - 22 kg
33 - 49 pounds
4 - 8 kg
8 - 18 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
12 - 19 Years
Litter Size:
1 - 5
4 - 6
Size:
Medium dog
Small dog
Other Names:
Australian Cattle Dog, Blue Heeler
Bichón Tenerife • Bichon à poil frisé Bichon
Colors Available:
mottled blue, Red speckled. Black and tan coloring , Blue
white
Coat:
Short, double coat
Medium length, silky texture with corkscrew curls
Shedding:
Moderate
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Friendly, Intelligent, Loving, Playful, Social, Stubborn, Sweet
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
Yes
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Queensland Heeler vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  2. Queensland Heeler vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Queensland Heeler vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  4. Queensland Heeler vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  5. Queensland Heeler vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  6. Queensland Heeler vs Collie - Breed Comparison
  7. Queensland Heeler vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  8. Queensland Heeler vs Dutch Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  9. Queensland Heeler vs Blue Healer - Breed Comparison
  10. Queensland Heeler vs English Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  11. Queensland Heeler vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  12. Queensland Heeler vs Catahoula Cur - Breed Comparison
  13. Queensland Heeler vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  14. Queensland Heeler vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  15. Queensland Heeler vs Pyrenean Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  16. Queensland Heeler vs Bergamasco - Breed Comparison
  17. Queensland Heeler vs Berger Picard - Breed Comparison
  18. Queensland Heeler vs Appenzell Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  19. Queensland Heeler vs German Coolie - Breed Comparison
  20. Queensland Heeler vs Bohemian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  21. Queensland Heeler vs Croatian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  22. Queensland Heeler vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  23. Queensland Heeler vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  24. Queensland Heeler vs New Zealand Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  25. Queensland Heeler vs Norwegian Buhund - 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