Cavapoo vs Bichon Frise: Which One Fits Your Family Best?
Last weekend, I was at the dog park, sipping a much-needed latte, when a woman with two little white fluffballs sat on the bench next to me. One was a bouncy Cavapoo, his curly ears flopping with every zoomie. The other was a pristine Bichon Frise, prancing with an air of royalty. “I just love small, fluffy dogs,” she laughed, “but I can’t decide—Cavapoo vs Bichon Frise?”
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering the same thing, you’re not alone. Both breeds are adorable, affectionate, and family-friendly, but they do have some differences that could make one a better fit for your home than the other. So, let’s dive into the Cavapoo vs. Bichon Frise debate and see which one steals your heart!
Temperament Cavapoo vs Bichon Frise: Playful Lovebug vs. Cheerful Companion
- Cavapoos (a mix of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle) are affectionate, people-oriented, and eager to please. These pups tend to be a little more laid-back and thrive on human companionship. If you want a dog that will snuggle up on the couch with you and follow you from room to room, a Cavapoo is your perfect sidekick.
- Bichon Frises, on the other hand, are known for their cheerful, outgoing nature. They were bred to be companion dogs, and it shows—they’re social butterflies who love meeting new people and showing off their playful antics. If you want a confident, lively pup that brings energy to your home, a Bichon might be the way to go.
Bottom Line: If you want a devoted, affectionate dog who thrives on one-on-one time, a Cavapoo is ideal. If you’d prefer a social, playful pup who’s always ready for fun, the Bichon Frise might be a better match.
Trainability: Eager Learner vs. Clever Performer
- Cavapoos inherit their Poodle parent’s intelligence and the Cavalier’s desire to please, making them highly trainable. They respond well to positive reinforcement and tend to pick up commands quickly.
- Bichon Frises are smart and quick learners, but they can have a bit of a stubborn streak. They love performing tricks and enjoy learning but may need a bit more patience when it comes to house training.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a pup that’s easy to train and eager to listen, the Cavapoo has a slight edge. But if you enjoy a little personality and persistence in training, the Bichon Frise will keep you entertained.
Crate Training: How to Crate Train Your Dog or Puppy
Both Cavapoos and Bichon Frises benefit from crate training—it helps with potty training, prevents destructive behavior, and provides them with a safe space. Here’s what you need to know:
- Start slow by introducing the crate as a positive place. Toss treats inside, let them explore, and never use it as punishment.
- Keep crate sessions short at first, gradually increasing the time as they get comfortable.
- For puppies, expect to wake up for nighttime potty breaks since they can only hold their bladder for a few hours at a time.
Crate training is especially helpful for Bichon Frises, as they can take longer to house train than Cavapoos. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key!
Bottom Line: If house training is a concern, crate training is essential—especially for Bichons, who can be a bit stubborn in this area.
Grooming: Curls vs. Fluff
- Cavapoos have soft, wavy, or curly coats that require regular brushing to prevent matting. They need professional grooming every 4-6 weeks to keep their coat manageable.
- Bichon Frises have a thick, curly coat that needs frequent maintenance. Their famous fluffy look requires professional grooming every 3-4 weeks, along with daily brushing at home.
Bottom Line: Both breeds require consistent grooming, but the Bichon Frise demands a bit more upkeep to maintain their signature look.
Energy Levels Cavapoo vs Bichon Frise: Moderate Playfulness vs. Endless Zoomies
- Cavapoos enjoy daily walks, playtime, and cuddles but aren’t hyperactive. They’re adaptable and can thrive in both active and relaxed households.
- Bichon Frises have higher energy levels and love to play, run, and perform. They need daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy.
Bottom Line: If you want a dog with moderate energy levels who enjoys a mix of play and downtime, go for a Cavapoo. If you love a pup with boundless energy and a knack for entertaining, the Bichon Frise might be your perfect match.
Storytail Dogs: Ethical Cavapoo Breeder in Pennsylvania
At Storytail Dogs, we specialize in raising Cavapoos with exceptional temperaments and health. As an ethical breeder in Pennsylvania, we prioritize early socialization, temperament testing, and responsible breeding practices. Our puppies are crate-trained before they go home, ensuring a smoother transition for new families. We carefully match each puppy to their perfect home, focusing on their personality and the lifestyle of their future family. If you’re considering adding a Cavapoo to your home, we’d love to help you find the perfect fit!
You can see our available puppies here https://storytaildogs.com/puppies-available
Which Breed is Right for You?
✔️ Pick a Cavapoo if:
- You want a devoted, affectionate lap dog.
- You’re looking for an easy-to-train, adaptable pup.
- You prefer a dog with moderate energy levels.
✔️ Pick a Bichon Frise if:
- You love a lively, playful companion who thrives on fun.
- You don’t mind daily grooming and frequent professional trims.
- You want a confident, social butterfly who loves to entertain.
Final Thoughts on Cavapoo vs. Bichon Frise
Choosing between a Cavapoo vs. Bichon Frise comes down to what kind of personality and lifestyle fit best for you. If you’re looking for a calm, affectionate, easy-to-train dog, a Cavapoo will steal your heart. But if you love a cheerful, high-energy, playful pup, a Bichon Frise will bring endless fun into your home.
So, which one is calling your name? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear which breed you’re leaning toward!
- PetMD-“Cavapoo”- https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/cavapoo
- American Kennel Club-“Bichon Frise”- https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/bichon-frise/
