Silky Terrier vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison | Petzlover

Silky Terrier vs Bichon Frise - Breed ComparisonBichon Frise is originated from Spain but Silky Terrier is originated from Australia. Both Bichon Frise and Silky Terrier are having almost same height. Both Bichon Frise and Silky Terrier are having almost same weight. Bichon Frise may live 5 years more than Silky Terrier. Both Bichon Frise and Silky Terrier has almost same litter size. Bichon Frise requires Low Maintenance. But Silky Terrier requires Moderate Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Companion dog
Toy dog
undefined
Spain
Australia
Height Male:
23 - 30 cm
9 - 12 inches
21 - 26 cm
8 - 11 inches
Height Female:
21 - 29 cm
8 - 12 inches
21 - 26 cm
8 - 11 inches
Weight Male:
5 - 10 kg
11 - 23 pounds
4 - 5 kg
8 - 12 pounds
Weight Female:
4 - 8 kg
8 - 18 pounds
4 - 5 kg
8 - 12 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 19 Years
11 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 6
3 - 5
Size:
Small
Toy
Other Names:
Bichón Tenerife • Bichon à poil frisé Bichon
Silky Toy Terrier, Australian Silky Terrier
Colors Available:
white
Tan and silvery grey
Coat:
Medium length, silky texture with corkscrew curls
Long, straight and silky
Shedding:
Minimal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Friendly, Intelligent, Loving, Playful, Social, Stubborn, Sweet
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Sweet, Territorial
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
Yes
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

bichon friseContrary 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.

silky terrierIt is the Yorkshire Terrier and the Australian Terrier which are the ancestors of the Australian Silky Terrier. This is by no means a new dog breed. It is believed that the breed came into existence at the end of the 19th century.

The dog’s purpose is to be a companion. This little canine wasn’t always known as the Silky Terrier, but in 1955 the name became officially Silky Terrier.

The breed is also recognized by the Australia National Kennel Council in the Toy Group. In fact the breed is recognised by a number of the major kennel clubs as well as the Fédération Cynologique Internationale.

Description

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.

silky terrier puppy - descriptionThis is a small dog breed, standing at just 21 to 26cm in height and weighing in the region of 4 to 5kg. He may be a toy dog, but he is robust and athletic.

The ears of the Silky are small and erect with a lot of silky hair that hangs down and the tail is preferably docked and held high.

His coat is eye-catching – straight, long, silky and shiny. If it is left unclipped, it will reach the floor. The colour of the coat is a tan and silvery grey.

Temperament:

The temperament of any dog is affected by things such as heredity, upbringing and the training and socialization he receives.

Small he may be, but the Silky Terrier can benefit from training as he is feisty and strong willed.

He is energetic and always ready for action. He is ready to come bounding after you and join his human family for any action they’re into. He is playful, bold, loyal, tenacious, independent, social and lively and he makes a good playmate for children.

He might tend to be a bit snappy and aggressive towards other dogs. He is also great as a watchdog, barking and alerting you to strangers.

Characteristics

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

silky terrier dog - characteristicsThe silky terrier is a good choice for those who want a smallish dog but one which is robust and adventurous.

Your Silky is a loyal dog who loves spending time with his human family, wanting their companionship.

He will need to be physically and mentally stimulated as he is bright and intelligent. He can adapt to life in the city or the countryside but will need to be well exercised wherever he is.

Health Problems

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.

silky terrier puppies - health problemsJust like most other dogs, the Silky Terrier isn’t likely to get sick easily, but he can still succumb to any one of the dog illnesses there are.

Diabetes:

This is when your pet isn’t able to regulate blood sugar levels. Your dog will be drinking a lot more water than usual and also be urinating more often. The vet will explain to you a special diet for your pet and how the disease can be controlled with insulin.

Tracheal Collapse: 

This is a disease seen more often in smaller dogs like the Silky. It is caused by an obstruction in the airway and symptoms can include labored breathing and coughing. Your dog will need to be treated with anti-biotics and possibly surgery.

Caring The Pet

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.

●Grooming:

silky terrier dogs - caringYou can imagine that with that silky hair, you’re going to have to be brushing your furry friend quite a bit. It’s such soft, silky hair that it easily picks up burrs and gets matted. You may want to get your pet to a professional groomer to have the hair cut. As you brush him, check for any unusual lumps and keep an eye on his skin.

Check your pet’s teeth. Bad teeth can cause bacteria that can affect every part of your dog’s body. Check inside his ears for redness and check his eyes that there is no discharge. Trim the nails. If you don’t have the time or the inclination to do all these things for him, make an appointment with the professional pet groomers who will do it for you.

● Diet:

The Silky Terrier will need quality food if you want him to enjoy a long, healthy life. Its always a good idea to have some of the top quality commercially manufactured dog foods with you for convenience. If you want to give him the best there is, some home-made food will be a good choice, if you keep it simple.

Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots are a healthy choice for your pet – plain and simple without any exotic spices that could upset his stomach. Your dog will lap it up and you will see how he loves it. Chop the home-made food up and add some of it into his dry kibble as a treat twice a week.

Never leave him without a constant source of fresh, cool water.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Bichon Frise vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Bichon Frise vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Bichon Frise vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Bichon Frise vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Bichon Frise vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Bichon Frise vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Bichon Frise vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Bichon Frise vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Bichon Frise vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Bichon Frise vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Bichon Frise vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Bichon Frise vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Bichon Frise vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Bichon Frise vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Bichon Frise vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Bichon Frise vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Bichon Frise vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Bichon Frise vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Bichon Frise vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Bichon Frise vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Bichon Frise vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Bichon Frise vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Bichon Frise vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Bichon Frise vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Bichon Frise vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Silky Terrier vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Silky Terrier vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Silky Terrier vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Silky Terrier vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Silky Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Silky Terrier vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Silky Terrier vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Silky Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Silky Terrier vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Silky Terrier vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Silky Terrier vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Silky Terrier vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Silky Terrier vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Silky Terrier vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Silky Terrier vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Silky Terrier vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Silky Terrier vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Silky Terrier vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Silky Terrier vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Silky Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Silky Terrier vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Silky Terrier vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Silky Terrier vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Silky Terrier vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Silky Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison