Bichon Frise vs Maltese

The Bichon Frise is a small breed while the Maltese is toy. Both breeds make loyal companions but suit different lifestyles.

Bichon Frise

Trait

Maltese

Small

Size

Toy

12–18 lbs

Weight (Male)

4–7 lbs

12–18 lbs

Weight (Female)

4–7 lbs

9.5–11.5″

Height (Male)

8–10″

14–15 yrs

Lifespan

12–15 yrs

Curly double coat

Coat Type

Long silky coat

Non-Sporting

AKC Group

Toy

France/Belgium

Origin

Malta

Temperament & Care Ratings

Moderate

Energy Level

Moderate

Intensive

Grooming Needs

Intensive

Minimal

Shedding

Minimal

Eager

Trainability

Eager

Excellent

Good with Children

Moderate

Excellent

Good with Dogs

Good

Moderate

Barking Level

Frequent

Common Health Issues

Bichon Frise

Patellar luxation
Bladder stones
Allergies
Dental disease

Maltese

Patellar luxation
White dog shaker syndrome
Dental disease
Portosystemic shunt

Learn More

Bichon Frise Breed Profile

Complete guide to the Bichon Frise — size, temperament, health, and care.

Maltese Breed Profile

Complete guide to the Maltese — size, temperament, health, and care.

← Compare more breeds

Bichon Frise vs Maltese

The Bichon Frise is a small breed while the Maltese is toy. Both breeds make loyal companions but suit different lifestyles.

Bichon Frise

Trait

Maltese

Small

Size

Toy

12–18 lbs

Weight (Male)

4–7 lbs

12–18 lbs

Weight (Female)

4–7 lbs

9.5–11.5″

Height (Male)

8–10″

14–15 yrs

Lifespan

12–15 yrs

Curly double coat

Coat Type

Long silky coat

Non-Sporting

AKC Group

Toy

France/Belgium

Origin

Malta

Temperament & Care Ratings

Moderate

Energy Level

Moderate

Intensive

Grooming Needs

Intensive

Minimal

Shedding

Minimal

Eager

Trainability

Eager

Excellent

Good with Children

Moderate

Excellent

Good with Dogs

Good

Moderate

Barking Level

Frequent

Common Health Issues

Bichon Frise

Patellar luxation
Bladder stones
Allergies
Dental disease

Maltese

Patellar luxation
White dog shaker syndrome
Dental disease
Portosystemic shunt

Learn More

Bichon Frise Breed Profile

Complete guide to the Bichon Frise — size, temperament, health, and care.

Maltese Breed Profile

Complete guide to the Maltese — size, temperament, health, and care.

← Compare more breeds