Should I buy a Bichon Frise or Maltese puppy?

Should I buy a Bichon Frise Puppy or a Maltese Puppy for my family? I am asked this question by a huge percentage of my clients. There isn’t an easy answer. These two breeds even look alike as puppies. Many people can’t tell the Bichon Puppy from the Maltese Puppy when I have them together. Bichon Frise have many attributes that speak well for the breed as an all-around household pet. The Maltese, on the other hand, has a different set of just as appealing characteristics. There are some things the two breeds have in common. Both are white, non-shedding small house dogs. The Bichon has a double coat, thick and curly, while the Maltese's coat is single, no under coat, and very straight. Both are non-shedding. The Maltese is also a slightly smaller dog but not always. The smallest of the Maltese may appeal to the person who wants to carry the dog around with her while the slightly more sturdy. Bichon can be a better choice for homes with small children.

The Bichon Frise falls into the Non Sporting Group according to the AKC. This means they were not bred to do a specific job other than be a loving companion to man. That being said, they are sweet, loving and very willing to please. Bichons will follow you from room to room, sit at your feet and gaze lovingly into your eyes. They can do tricks and make excellent traveling companions. As far as obedience work--not so much. I have tried to train “Heal, Sit and stay to my dogs only to be met with a tail wagging Bichon lying on its’ back with four feet up in the air and a 'rub my belly please,' expression on its face. For most Bichon owners that’s just fine, they are looking for a loving companion that brings a smile to their face with their funny antics.

The Maltese, however, is a spaniel, coming from field retrieving working stock. Part of the Maltese appeal to some may be its slightly smaller size. The Maltese is an ancient breed and actually one of the ancestors of today’s Bichon. They are very intelligent and can be obedience trained easily. I can paper train a Maltese in 3 days. Proper breeding is very important in the Maltese. A result of poor breeding can be very vocal (barking all the time) disobedient and snappy dog. Pet shops are not the recommended place to buy any dog especially a small companion dog, since the genetics of the parents are so very important to the temperament of the puppies.

I like to meet the people and the children, if there are children involved, and make a recommendation based on the individual or family, lifestyle and schedule. Most people wouldn’t go wrong with either breed, but in some cases one over the other would be a much better choice. I breed both Bichon Frise and Maltese puppies. In an attempt to incorporate the best of both worlds, I have bred a Bichon/Maltese. If you have questions don’t hesitate to ask me. I have a wealth of experience and knowledge to share.