Compare breeds
Bichon Frise vs Maltese
Bichon Frise
Curly
Maltese
Long
Choose the Bichon Frise if you want…
- a family with children
- a home with other pets
- a dog or cat that learns quickly
- an active companion for long walks and play
Choose the Maltese if you want…
- a calmer companion
Side by side
| Trait | Bichon Frise | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Toy |
| Weight | 5–8 kg (11–18 lb) | 2–4 kg (4–9 lb) |
| Height | 23–30 cm (9–12 in) | 20–25 cm (8–10 in) |
| Life span | 14–15 years | 12–15 years |
| Origin | Mediterranean / France | Malta (Mediterranean) |
| Energy | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Trainability | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Good with children | 5/5 | 3/5 |
| Good with other pets | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Suits a flat | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Shedding | 1/5 | 1/5 |
| Grooming needs | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 3/5 | 3/5 |
Quick answers
Which is bigger, the Bichon Frise or the Maltese?
The Bichon Frise — typically about 2.2 times the weight. Bichon Frise: 5–8 kg (11–18 lb); Maltese: 2–4 kg (4–9 lb).
Which lives longer, the Bichon Frise or the Maltese?
The Bichon Frise, on average. Bichon Frise: 14–15 years; Maltese: 12–15 years.
Is the Bichon Frise or the Maltese better with children?
The Bichon Frise scores higher in our profiles (5 vs 3 out of 5). Always supervise young children with any pet.
Other comparisons
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts