Discover the key differences between the Bichon Frise, Poodle, and Maltese. Compare size, coat, personality, and grooming needs to find the best small dog for your lifestyle.
🐾 Meet the Bichon Frise: cheerful, fluffy & full of charm
According to Le Chien (Paris, 1959), the Bichon Frise is slightly larger in skull size than the Maltese, and its round, cloud-like appearance is due to its curly white coat. Despite its fluffy look, it remains a small and lightweight dog.
Key Traits:
Coat: Long, white, and woolly with loose curls
Eyes: Round and dark brown
Tail: Naturally curved and carried over the back (never docked)
Personality: Cheerful, clownish, and sociable
Size: Small (around 5–7 kg / 10–15 lbs)
This breed is beloved for its friendly nature and playful behavior, often called a “living plush toy.”
🐩 Poodle (toy or miniature): the brainy showstopper
The Poodle shares intelligence and trainability with the Bichon Frise, but its appearance and grooming needs differ significantly.
Key Traits:
Coat: Dense and tightly curled; coarser than the Bichon’s
Colors: Comes in many (black, white, apricot, gray, parti-color, and more)
Eyes: Almond-shaped for a more elegant, alert expression
Personality: Extremely smart, slightly more independent, trainable
Size: Comes in Toy, Miniature, and Standard varieties
Poodles require frequent grooming and can be styled in various show trims, unlike the Bichon or Maltese.
🤍 Maltese: elegant, loyal & easy to love
The Bichon Maltese, often just called Maltese, is another member of the companion dog group, admired for its graceful appearance and affectionate nature.
Key Traits:
Coat: Straight, silky, and pure white
Eyes: Round and dark with a sweet, expressive gaze
Tail: Long and feathered, draped over the back
Personality: Loving, gentle, and alert
Size: Smaller than the Bichon (typically 3–4 kg / 6–9 lbs)
The Maltese requires daily brushing due to its long, fine coat but has a quieter and more delicate demeanor compared to the Poodle or Bichon Frise.
🐶 Which small dog breed is right for you?
🐾 Choose the Bichon Frise if you want a joyful, social pup with a cuddly, round look. Great for families with kids.
🐩 Choose the Poodle if you love intelligent dogs and enjoy advanced training and grooming.
🤍 Choose the Maltese if you prefer a dainty, affectionate lapdog with an elegant appearance.
Each breed makes a fantastic companion, and the right one depends on your lifestyle, grooming commitment, and energy levels.