Bichon Frise Maltese Mix: Complete Maltichon Breed Guide

The Bichon Frise Maltese mix — most commonly called the Maltichon — pairs two of the toy dog world's most popular companion breeds into a single small package. With both parent breeds ranking in the AKC's top 40 most registered dogs, it's no surprise this cross has gained steady interest among apartment dwellers, retirees, and families looking for a petite, low-shedding companion.

But designer mixes come with inherent variability. A Maltichon isn't a standardized breed with a predictable blueprint — it's a genetic roll of the dice between two closely related but distinct toy breeds. This guide breaks down exactly what you can expect, what you can't predict, and how to decide if this mix is right for your household.

Parent Breed Breakdown: Bichon Frise and Maltese

To understand what a Maltichon might become, you need to understand the two breeds that create it. Both parents belong to the toy/companion group and share Mediterranean ancestry, but they differ in meaningful ways that affect the offspring.

The Bichon Frise brings a sturdier frame, a more outgoing personality, and a plush double coat. The Maltese contributes a finer bone structure, a more reserved demeanor with strangers, and a long, single-layer silky coat. Your Maltichon will inherit some combination of these traits — but which combination is never guaranteed.

Generation Types: F1, F1B, F2, and Multigen Explained

Most Maltichons available from breeders are F1 crosses, since both parent breeds are readily available and popular. F1B litters are less common but may be marketed toward allergy sufferers seeking more predictable coat types.

Size and Physical Appearance: What to Expect

Because both parent breeds are small dogs, the Maltichon's size range is relatively narrow compared to crosses involving large and small breeds. But there's still meaningful variation, especially between males and females and across different generation types.

Puppies that inherit more Maltese genetics tend toward the lower end (7–9 lb), while those favoring the Bichon Frise parent may reach 13–15 lb. This matters for households with very young children — a 7 lb dog is more fragile than a 14 lb dog and requires more careful handling.

Coat and Color Possibilities

Coat type is one of the most variable traits in this cross. Here's what you might see:

• Bichon-dominant coat: Curly to wavy, plush, dense double coat with a softer undercoat. More prone to matting. Tends to be slightly more "powder puff" in appearance.
• Maltese-dominant coat: Long, straight to slightly wavy, silky single coat. Less dense but still requires daily brushing to prevent tangles.
• Blended coat: Wavy, medium-length hair with moderate density. This is the most common outcome in F1 litters and is often the easiest to maintain.

Color is the most predictable trait: nearly all Maltichons are white or off-white. You may see faint cream, buff, or very light apricot shading, particularly on the ears, inherited from the Bichon side. The AKC Bichon Frise standard allows for these subtle shadings, while the AKC Maltese standard permits only very light lemon or tan markings on the ears.

Temperament: Best-Case and Challenging Scenarios

Both parent breeds were developed as companion dogs, so the Maltichon's baseline temperament leans toward affectionate, people-oriented, and eager to be near you. But "companion breed" doesn't automatically mean "easy dog." Here's the realistic range:

The Maltese parent's influence tends to produce a more alert, watchful dog that may be reserved with strangers. The Bichon Frise side typically contributes a more outgoing, "everyone is my friend" attitude. Where your individual dog falls on this spectrum depends on genetics, early socialization, and ongoing training.

Training recommendation: Use only positive reinforcement methods — food rewards, clicker training, and praise. Neither parent breed responds well to harsh corrections, and the Maltichon's sensitivity means aversive tools like shock collars or prong collars will damage trust and can worsen fear-based behaviors. Aim for 5–10 minute training sessions, 2–3 times daily, using high-value treats (small pieces of freeze-dried chicken or cheese work well for toy breeds).

Health Considerations: Hybrid Vigor Reality Check

Let's address a common misconception directly: hybrid vigor does not eliminate health risks. The concept of heterosis — where crossbred animals show improved biological function due to genetic diversity — has documented support in livestock and some canine studies. However, it primarily reduces the risk of recessive genetic conditions that require two copies of a defective gene. It does not protect against conditions that both parent breeds share, and it does not make a mixed breed "healthier by default."

Because the Bichon Frise and Maltese are closely related toy breeds with overlapping health profiles, several conditions are relevant for the Maltichon:

According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, small-breed dogs generally have longer lifespans than large breeds, and the Maltichon's expected lifespan of 12–15 years (with some living to 16 or 17) reflects this. However, longevity depends heavily on preventive care, weight management, and dental hygiene — not just genetics.

Grooming Requirements: What the Coat Demands

Regardless of which parent's coat your Maltichon inherits, plan for a meaningful grooming commitment. This is not a wash-and-wear dog.

Daily Home Grooming

• Brushing: 3–5 minutes daily with a slicker brush (for curly/wavy coats) or a pin brush and metal comb (for straighter, silkier coats). Focus on behind the ears, the armpits, and the chest — these areas mat first.
• Face cleaning: Wipe around the eyes daily with a damp cloth. Both parent breeds are prone to tear staining, and the white coat makes it highly visible. A veterinary-recommended tear stain remover can help.
• Ear care: Check ears weekly for redness, odor, or excess wax. Clean with a veterinarian-approved ear cleanser as needed. Floppy, hairy ears trap moisture and increase infection risk.
• Nail trimming: Every 2–3 weeks. Small dogs often don't wear nails down naturally, especially if they're primarily indoor pets.

Professional Grooming

Budget for professional grooming every 4–6 weeks. Costs vary by region, but expect to pay:

• Basic bath and trim: $50–$80 per session
• Full groom (bath, haircut, nails, ears, teeth brushing): $70–$120 per session
• Annual grooming cost: Approximately $500–$1,200 depending on frequency and your area

Popular clip styles for the Maltichon include the puppy cut (uniform 1–2 inch length), the teddy bear cut (round face, shorter body), or a modified Bichon clip (fuller head, trimmed body). Discuss with your groomer which style suits your dog's coat type and your maintenance preferences.

Is the Maltichon Hypoallergenic?

No dog is truly hypoallergenic. The term is a marketing label, not a veterinary or scientific classification. Both the Bichon Frise and the Maltese are considered low-shedding breeds, and their cross typically inherits this trait. Low shedding means less dander-laden hair circulating in your home, which reduces — but does not eliminate — allergic reactions.

People with mild dog allergies often tolerate low-shedding breeds better. People with moderate to severe allergies may still react. If allergies are a concern, spend time with the specific puppy or adult dog before committing, and consult your allergist.

Cost: Purchase Price, Ongoing Expenses, and Where to Find One

Buying from a Breeder

Maltichon puppies from reputable breeders typically cost between $800 and $2,500, with most falling in the $1,200–$1,800 range. Prices depend on:

• Location: Breeders in major metro areas and coastal states tend to charge more
• Parent health testing: Breeders who perform OFA patellar, cardiac, and eye clearances on both parents charge a premium — and should
• Generation: F1B and multigen puppies sometimes command higher prices due to perceived predictability
• Litter size: Toy breeds often have small litters (2–4 puppies), which limits supply

Red flags to avoid: Breeders who always have puppies available, who won't let you visit the facility, who can't provide health records for parent dogs, or who price puppies significantly below $600 (which often indicates minimal investment in health testing or care).

Adoption and Rescue

Maltichons and similar small-breed mixes appear in rescues regularly, though they're often listed simply as "small mix" or "terrier mix" rather than by designer breed name. Adoption fees typically range from $150 to $450 and usually include spay/neuter, initial vaccinations, and a microchip. Check these resources:

• Breed-specific rescues for Bichon Frise and Maltese (they sometimes take in mixes)
• Local humane societies and SPCA shelters
• Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet search tools with breed filters
• Small-breed rescue organizations in your region

First-Year Cost Estimate

After the first year, expect annual costs of $1,200–$2,500 for routine care, grooming, food, and preventives — not including emergency veterinary visits.

Is the Maltichon Right for You?

This mix works well for specific lifestyles and less well for others. Here's a practical framework:

Exercise Needs

The Maltichon needs approximately 20–40 minutes of daily activity, which can include:

• Two short leash walks (10–15 minutes each)
• Indoor play sessions with puzzle toys or a flirt pole
• Supervised off-leash time in a secure area

This is not a high-drive dog. Most Maltichons are happy with moderate activity and generous couch time. However, mental stimulation matters — boredom in small dogs often manifests as excessive barking or destructive chewing.

House Training Realities

Toy breeds are notoriously slower to house train than larger dogs. Their small bladders mean they physically can't hold it as long, and cold or rainy weather often makes them reluctant to go outside. Plan for:

• Outdoor potty breaks every 2–3 hours during initial training
• A consistent schedule with high-value rewards immediately after successful outdoor elimination
• Possible use of indoor potty pads as a supplement (especially in high-rise apartments or cold climates)
• Realistic timelines: 4–8 months for reliable house training is common for toy breeds, not a sign of failure

Frequently Asked Questions

What two breeds make up the Maltichon?

The Maltichon is a cross between a Bichon Frise and a Maltese. Both are small companion breeds with Mediterranean origins, white coats, and low-shedding hair. The Bichon Frise is slightly larger and stockier, while the Maltese is finer-boned and lighter.

How big will a Bichon Frise Maltese mix get?

Most adult Maltichons weigh between 7 and 15 lb (3.2–6.8 kg) and stand 8–11 inches (20–28 cm) at the shoulder. The exact size depends on which parent breed's genetics are more dominant and on the individual puppy's growth pattern. You can estimate adult weight by doubling the puppy's weight at 12–14 weeks, though this is only approximate for mixed breeds.

What will the temperament be like?

Expect an affectionate, people-oriented companion that thrives on closeness with its family. The Bichon Frise influence tends to produce a more outgoing, playful personality, while the Maltese influence can create a more reserved, watchful dog. Early socialization (exposure to diverse people, sounds, surfaces, and environments between 8 and 16 weeks of age) is the single biggest factor you can control to shape a confident, well-adjusted adult dog.

Is this mix hypoallergenic or low-shedding?

The Maltichon is low-shedding but not hypoallergenic. No dog is truly hypoallergenic — allergens come from dander, saliva, and urine, not just hair. However, the low-shedding coat means less hair and dander circulating in your home, and many people with mild allergies tolerate this mix well. Spend time with the specific dog before committing if allergies are a concern.

What health issues might this mix inherit?

The most relevant inherited conditions include patellar luxation (kneecap dislocation), dental disease, tracheal collapse, allergies/atopy, cataracts, portosystemic shunt, and white shaker syndrome. Always consult your veterinarian for a breed-appropriate screening plan and wellness schedule. Ask breeders for OFA health clearances on both parent dogs.

How much does a Maltichon cost?

Puppies from reputable breeders typically cost $800–$2,500, with most in the $1,200–$1,800 range. Adoption from a rescue costs $150–$450. First-year total expenses (including purchase, veterinary care, grooming, food, and supplies) range from approximately $1,700 to $6,100 depending on your choices and location.

Do Maltichons bark a lot?

Both parent breeds have a reputation for alert barking, and many Maltichons inherit this tendency. They'll typically bark at doorbells, knocking, strangers passing by, and unfamiliar sounds. Consistent positive reinforcement training can reduce excessive barking, but some level of vocalization is normal for this type of dog. If you live in a building with thin walls or noise-sensitive neighbors, this is worth considering.

How long do Maltichons live?

The typical lifespan is 12–15 years, with some individuals living to 16 or 17. Small breeds generally outlive large breeds, and longevity is supported by maintaining a healthy weight, regular veterinary care, consistent dental hygiene, and preventive medications.