If you’re here because you’re trying to make one practical decision after losing your Bichon Frise, I’m so sorry. This guide keeps urn sizing simple and steady—so you can choose the right capacity without second-guessing it.
Quick answer
- Sizing rule: plan for about 1 cubic inch per pound of body weight.
- Typical adult Bichon Frise weight: about 12–18 lb.
- Minimum capacity: about 12–18 cubic inches.
- Comfort range (roomier fit): about 15–22 cubic inches (adds ~20%).
- Most Bichon Frises fit best in a Small urn (under 25 cu in). If your comfort estimate approaches 25 cu in (or weight is an estimate), sizing up to Medium can be the calmer choice.
Start shopping here: Pet Urns for Dogs. Most Bichon Frise families shop in: Small Pet Urns (under 25 cu in). If you want extra breathing room, compare: Medium Pet Urns (25–60 cu in).
The sizing rule (1 cubic inch per lb) and why we still size up
Urn capacity is measured in cubic inches. A practical starting point is one cubic inch of urn capacity for every pound of your dog’s weight. Many families choose more than the minimum because it helps the inner bag settle more easily, makes closure feel calmer, and gives breathing room if weight is an estimate (or if you want to include a small memento).
If you’d like to double-check your number, use the Pet Urn Size Calculator and compare it with the Complete Guide to Choosing the Perfect Urn Size.
Bichon Frise weight to urn capacity (cubic inches)
If you have a recent vet record, use that number. If not, use your best estimate and lean toward the comfort number for an easier fit.
| Your Bichon’s weight | Minimum capacity (1:1) | Comfort capacity (add ~20%) | Usually a good fit in |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 lb | 12 cu in | 15 cu in | Small |
| 15 lb | 15 cu in | 18 cu in | Small |
| 18 lb (upper end) | 18 cu in | 22 cu in | Small (choose a listed capacity that meets your comfort target) |
| 19–25 lb (mix / overweight / estimate) | 19–25 cu in | 23–30 cu in | Medium (often calmer) or Small (only if the listed capacity clearly fits) |
Which Funeral.com size category fits most Bichon Frises?
Most Bichon Frises fit best in a Small pet urn (under 25 cubic inches). The key is to shop by the urn’s listed capacity and choose one that meets or exceeds your comfort target. If your dog was heavier than expected, weight is an estimate, or you want extra breathing room for an easy closure, Medium can be the calmer choice.
Size up if… (a simple rule that prevents a tight fit)
Size up if your dog’s weight is an estimate, your dog is a mix, your dog is big-framed or very muscular, you want room for mementos (tag, note, fur clipping), or you want the easiest closure with the inner bag. If your dog’s weight is close to the top of this size tier, choosing the next tier up is usually the calmer choice because it avoids a tight fit.
For Bichon Frises, the main cutoff to watch is 25 cubic inches. If your comfort estimate approaches 25 (or you’re not fully sure of weight), choosing Medium usually removes the stress.
Sharing plan options (keepsakes and jewelry)
If more than one person wants a portion of ashes, a gentle plan is one primary urn plus keepsakes (or jewelry) so you don’t have to reopen the main urn repeatedly. Keepsakes can also be a comforting option even if you aren’t splitting evenly.
Helpful tools to confirm your choice
Sources
- American Kennel Club: Bichon Frise (typical weight)
- AKC Official Breed Standard: Bichon Frise
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Bichon Frise breed profile
FAQ
What size urn do I need for a Bichon Frise?
Use about 1 cubic inch per pound. Most Bichon Frises weigh around 12–18 lb, so the minimum range is about 12–18 cubic inches. For a calmer fit, many families choose about 15–22 cubic inches.
Is a Small urn big enough for a Bichon Frise?
Yes. Most Bichon Frises fit comfortably in a Small urn (under 25 cu in). Choose a listed capacity that meets or exceeds your comfort target so closure doesn’t feel tight.
What size urn do I need for a 12 lb Bichon Frise?
Start with 12 cubic inches minimum. For comfort, aim for about 15 cubic inches. A Small pet urn is typically the best match.
What size urn do I need for an 18 lb Bichon Frise?
Start with 18 cubic inches minimum. For a roomier fit, aim for about 22 cubic inches. A Small urn is still a great fit—just choose a listed capacity that clearly meets your comfort target.
When should I choose Medium instead of Small for a Bichon Frise?
Consider Medium if weight is an estimate, your dog was heavier than expected, you’re including mementos, or your comfort estimate approaches 25 cubic inches. Medium can be the calmer choice for extra breathing room and easy closure.
How much extra capacity should I add beyond the minimum?
Many families add about 15–20% for comfort. This helps the inner bag settle more easily and reduces the chance of a tight fit.
Can I include a collar tag, note, or small mementos in the urn?
Often, yes—just plan for it. If you want room for mementos, aim for your comfort target (or size up) so the fit doesn’t feel tight.
Can a keepsake urn hold my Bichon’s full ashes?
Sometimes, depending on the keepsake urn’s listed capacity and your dog’s weight. More often, keepsakes are used for sharing alongside a primary urn.
How can I double-check my sizing before ordering?
Use the Pet Urn Size Calculator, then choose an urn whose listed capacity meets or exceeds your comfort target. You can also compare with the Complete Guide to Choosing the Perfect Urn Size.
