Comparison: Bichon Frise and Maltese

Bichon Frise and Maltese are marked as similar in our database. The table compares only the data we have on the breeds.

Bichon Frise
Photo: Alex D Stewart, CC BY 2.0, source
Maltese
Photo: Chantiquemaltese, CC0, source
Bichon FriseMaltese
FCI group9. Companion and Toy Dogs9. Companion and Toy Dogs
Country of originFranceMalta
CategorySmallVery small (toy)
Height at withers23–30 cm21–25 cm
Weight5–8 kg3–4 kg
Life span12–15 years12–15 years
Recognition features
  • White ´curly´ powder-puff coat
  • Dark round eyes and black nose
  • Tail carried in a curve over the back
  • Long, silky pure white coat to the ground
  • Black nose and dark round eyes
  • Small dog up to 3 kg with a tail curled over the back
CoatFine, dense, curly coat, white.Long, silky, straight coat, white.
PurposeA Mediterranean bichon, popular at medieval European courts; later a circus and street dog.An ancient Mediterranean lap dog favoured by classical nobility; bred purely as a companion.

Breed page: Bichon Frise · Breed page: Maltese

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The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard.