Bichon Frise
An always-cheerful ball of white fluff, the Bichon Frise is a gentle, sociable, easy-going companion that sheds very little.
Bichon Frise vs Maltese
Side by side
| Trait | Bichon Frise | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Companion and toy dogs | Companion and toy dogs |
| Size | Small | Toy |
| Weight | 3–6 kg | 3–4 kg |
| Height at withers | 23–30 cm | 20–25 cm |
| Life expectancy | 12–15 years | 12–15 years |
| Energy | ||
| With children | ||
| With other dogs | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Heat tolerance | ||
| Apartment | Yes | Yes |
Key differences
- Heavier: Bichon Frise (about 4.5 kg vs 3.5 kg on average)
- Taller: Bichon Frise (about 26.5 cm vs 22.5 cm on average)
- Better with children: Bichon Frise (5/5 vs 3/5)
Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.
Which one is right for you?
A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.
- Apartment living
- Both are similarBased on apartment suitability and energy.
- Family with children
- Bichon Frise is the better fitBased on behaviour with children.
- First-time owner
- Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
- Hot climate
- Both are similarBased on heat tolerance.
- Active owner
- Both are similarBased on energy level.
Meet the two breeds
Maltese
A small dog with a long, silky white coat, the Maltese is gentle, playful and devoted to its owners. It sheds very little.