Start with the dog’s adult size, the coat care you can maintain, and your daily schedule. A breed profile can narrow your search, but meeting an individual dog and asking about its behavior gives you information a comparison chart cannot.
Compare adult size and coat care
The American Kennel Club profiles below describe each breed. Size ranges describe typical adults, not a prediction for a particular puppy.
| Breed | AKC adult weight | Coat-care decision |
|---|---|---|
| Bichon Frise | 12–18 lb | A curly coat needs regular brushing, combing and trimming. Plan both home maintenance and grooming appointments. |
| Maltese | Under 7 lb | A long silky coat needs frequent attention. Ask a groomer about a manageable pet trim. |
| Toy Poodle | 4–6 lb | Curly hair needs regular grooming. Ask about brushing between clips as well as appointment frequency. |
| Havanese | 7–13 lb | A long coat needs regular detangling. Discuss the upkeep of the coat length you prefer. |
Ask about behavior in your household
For any of these breeds, ask the breeder, rescue or foster carer how the individual dog responds to handling, visitors, children and other animals. Ask what happens when someone leaves the house. Avoid treating a friendliness score as a promise about barking, training or time alone.
If you work away from home, read the Bichon alone-time planning guide before making a choice. Arrange cover for the first days and for toilet breaks.
Budget for the coat you will keep
Ask a local groomer for a quote based on the dog’s size, coat condition and intended trim. Include a brush and comb in the budget. Our Bichon grooming schedule explains home maintenance, and the Bichon versus Maltese guide looks more closely at that pair.
Questions to take to a breeder or rescue
- What health records and breed-relevant screening results can I review?
- What grooming and handling is this dog used to?
- What does its current day look like, including time alone?
- What support is available if the placement is difficult?
Use the breed comparison tool to organize preferences, then check the details with the people caring for the dog.