Bichon Frise vs Yorkshire Terrier

Where Bichon Frise and Yorkshire Terrier differ most

• Adult weight: Bichon Frise 12–18 lbs · Yorkshire Terrier 4–7 lbsBichon Frise much heavier
• Good with kids: Bichon Frise 5/5 · Yorkshire Terrier 2/5Bichon Frise much rated higher
• Trainability: Bichon Frise 4/5 · Yorkshire Terrier 3/5Bichon Frise easier to train
• Good with other pets: Bichon Frise 4/5 · Yorkshire Terrier 3/5Bichon Frise rated higher
• Vocalization: Bichon Frise 3/5 · Yorkshire Terrier 4/5Yorkshire Terrier more vocal
• Est. monthly cost: Bichon Frise $90–150 · Yorkshire Terrier $70–130Bichon Frise costlier

Full trait-by-trait breakdown

Which one should you choose?

Both are small companion breeds with serious grooming commitments, but their coats and temperaments diverge in ways worth weighing. The Yorkie's silky, continuously growing coat and the Bichon's curly powder-puff coat both need regular brushing and trims, though many owners find the Bichon's texture more forgiving of a missed week. Temperament splits more clearly: the Yorkie carries real terrier feistiness and can be less patient with young kids, while the Bichon tends toward a gentler, more universally friendly disposition. Vocalization runs higher for the Yorkie, which is quick to bark at anything unfamiliar, compared with the Bichon's more moderate chattiness. Both do well with modest daily exercise and adapt easily to apartment life. Training suits patient owners with either breed, since both can be strong-willed despite their size. Choose the Yorkie for a bolder, more classically terrier personality; choose the Bichon Frise for a softer temperament that tends to be gentler with a full household.