Dog breed comparison
Bichon Frise vs Maltese
How the two compare on size, temperament, training, grooming and health, and which suits your home.
At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | Bichon Frise | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Companion Dogs | Companion Dogs |
| Size | Small | Small |
| Height | 9 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder | 8 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder |
| Weight | 7 to 12 pounds | Up to 7 pounds |
| Life span | 12 to 15 years | 12 to 15 years |
| Energy | ||
| Exercise needs | ||
| Easy to train | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with other dogs | ||
| Friendly with strangers | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Easy to groom | ||
| Barking | ||
| Apartment living | ||
| First-time owners | ||
| Copes alone | ||
| Drooling | ||
| General health |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Friendly with strangers
The Bichon Frise is friendlier with strangers than the Maltese.
Energy
The Bichon Frise has more energy than the Maltese.
Barking
The Maltese barks more than the Bichon Frise.
Exercise needs
The Bichon Frise needs more exercise than the Maltese.
Easy to train
The Bichon Frise is easier to train than the Maltese.
Good with children
The Bichon Frise is better with children than the Maltese.
Which to choose
Bichon Frise or Maltese?
Choose the Bichon Frise if…
- You have lots of visitors (it is friendlier with strangers)
- You want an active, playful companion (it has more energy)
- You want a dog that barks less
- You’re out walking, running or hiking most days (it needs more exercise)
Choose the Maltese if…
- You want a more watchful dog (it is more reserved with strangers)
- You’d like a calmer pet (it is calmer)
- You have less time for long walks (it needs less exercise)
- You want a dog that is easier to groom
Questions.
Which is easier to train, the Bichon Frise or the Maltese?
The Bichon Frise is generally easier to train than the Maltese. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the Bichon Frise or the Maltese?
The Bichon Frise is usually the better fit for families with children, though a well-socialised Maltese can be great too. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
They shed about the same amount. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
