MalteseVSBichon Frise
Maltese and Bichon Frise are two of the most popular white, fluffy companion dogs. Both are hypoallergenic, affectionate, and apartment-friendly — but their personalities and grooming needs differ.
Last reviewed: June 2026
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Maltese | Bichon Frise |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 4–7 lbs, 8–10 in | 12–18 lbs, 9–12 in |
| Energy Level | Moderate | Moderate–High |
| Shedding | Very Low | Very Low |
| Allergy Friendly | Yes | Yes |
| Trainability | Moderate | ✓Very Good |
| Good With Kids | Moderate (fragile) | ✓Very Good |
| Apartment Friendly | Excellent | Excellent |
| Average Lifespan | 12–15 years | 14–15 years |
✓ indicates advantage in this category. Tie = comparable.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Choose a Maltese if…
Singles or couples who want a very small, silky-coated companion dog that thrives on one-on-one attention.
Choose a Bichon Frise if…
Families who want a slightly larger, sturdier white companion that is more playful and better with children.
Grooming & Shedding: Maltese vs Bichon Frise
Both the Maltese and Bichon Frise are celebrated for their low-shedding coats, making them popular choices for allergy-sensitive households. Maltese have a single-layer, silky, straight coat that grows continuously and sheds minimally. When kept in a full show coat, daily brushing is necessary to prevent tangles and matting. Most owners opt for a shorter puppy trim, which reduces brushing to a few times per week. Bichon Frises have a soft, curly double coat that also sheds very little but requires regular clipping to maintain its signature rounded appearance. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks is standard for both breeds. Both also require regular eye cleaning to prevent staining.
Temperament & Family Compatibility
Maltese are gentle, affectionate companion dogs that thrive on one-on-one attention with their primary owner. They can be sensitive and may develop separation anxiety if left alone frequently. While friendly, their tiny size makes them fragile, and rough handling by young children can injure them. They tend to be reserved with strangers initially. Bichon Frises are more outgoing, playful, and adaptable — historically bred as circus performers, they enjoy entertaining and learning tricks. They are sturdier than Maltese and tend to be more tolerant of children and unfamiliar people. Bichons are also more responsive to training. Both breeds make excellent apartment companions and are devoted to their families.
Compare pet insurance for Maltese and Bichon Frise
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Compare Pet Insurance QuotesFrequently Asked Questions
Which is easier to train — Maltese or Bichon Frise?
Bichon Frises are generally easier to train. They were bred as circus performers and are eager to please. Maltese can be more stubborn, especially with housetraining, which is notoriously challenging for the breed.
Are Maltese or Bichon Frises better with children?
Bichon Frises are more tolerant of children. They are sturdier and more playful. Maltese are tiny and fragile — rough handling by young children can injure them. Maltese also tend to be more anxious around unfamiliar people.
Which is more hypoallergenic?
Both breeds are considered hypoallergenic due to their low-shedding coats. No dog is truly allergen-free, but both Maltese and Bichon Frises produce less dander than most breeds and are among the best choices for allergy sufferers.
Do Maltese or Bichon Frises need more grooming?
Both require regular professional grooming every 6–8 weeks. Maltese with long show coats need daily brushing to prevent tangles. Bichon Frises have a curly coat that requires regular clipping but is less prone to matting if kept in a short "puppy cut."
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