Poodle or Bichon Maltese? Differences and similarities

Which dog breed will suit you and your lifestyle best? Is a poodle or a bichon maltese better? What are their similarities? How do they differ? Below, we tell you all about these two small dog breeds so you can decide which one to choose: bichon maltese or poodle.

Characteristics of the poodle

You probably already know a lot about them, but we want you to get to know them better and decide which one you like better: poodle or bichon maltese.

To begin with, there are 4 types of poodle: The giantthe mediumthe miniature or dwarfand the toy poodle.

The comparison we will make so that you can choose between poodle or Maltese is with the dwarf poodlewhich is the most similar in physical characteristics and is in the same category for the "poodle vs. Maltese" round.

Very intelligent and lucid, the dwarf poodle is very enthusiastic and easy to train. In spite of their small size (they measure between 28 and 38 cm and weigh 12 to 14 kg), they are excellent watchdogs. This is very important when making a decision between poodle or Maltese.

Poodles love to play, run, be active outdoors and go for walks. See: What is the poodle like? Character and temperamentfor more information.

The poodle does not need special feeding, although it is important to be attentive to its nutrition and not to overfeed it or give it too many treats. See: Poodle dog food

As for grooming, the poodle is recommended for people with allergies or those who do not have much time to dedicate to grooming, since it is hypoallergenic and does not lose practically any hair. 

When deciding between bichon maltese or poodle, you should know that when deciding between a bichon maltese and a poodle, the poodle must be bathed y cut his hair on a fairly regular basis.

It is also necessary to examine and clean your ears frequently to prevent wax build-up or infection.

Another indispensable maintenance for the poodle is tooth brushing to remove tartar and avoid oral problems.

Despite being healthy dogs, and having a fairly long life expectancy, dwarf poodles may suffer from some diseases or ailments that have to do with their genetic load, such as progressive retinal atrophy, glaucoma, cataracts, epilepsy or knee luxation.

But... You still can't decide between poodle or Maltese! In order for you to make the final decision poodle or bichon maltese, you have to get to know the latter.

See: Cotón de Tulear vs Bichón Maltes

Maltese Bichon

You must take into account, when choosing between poodle or Maltese, that this is an extremely affectionate, intelligent and easy to train dog. He loves company and to be cared for, he loves to go for walks and play, even as an adult dog. 

It is small, light and very lively. It measures between 20 and 25 cm and can weigh between 3 and 4 kilos.

 It does not require special feeding but should not be overfed, and should not eat hard and crunchy foods to avoid dental problems.

The silky coat of this breed should be brushed daily and very gently, as it is very soft. It is recommended to gather the hair on the head in a bun so that it does not cover the eyes.

Dry shampoo should be put on his coat and dry it well to clean it, clean his ears well and remove the hairs that grow in the ear canal. You should also keep an eye on the eyes and clean them if necessary. 

It is also a healthy dog, but prone to some congenital diseases such as hydrocephalus, hypoglycemia, patellar lesions or corneal dystrophy.

Poodle vs. Maltese poodle

In short, the poodle vs. bichon Maltese contest depends on your lifestyle and personal preference. 

Basically, the Maltese requires less maintenance and grooming and tends to adapt better to changes than the dwarf poodle. Both enjoy playing, but the poodle requires more exercise.

The poodle is a little smarter and faster, and will be easier to train than the Maltese...Both are hypoallergenic, shed little hair and are very cuddly and affectionate.

Now you are ready to decide: Maltese or poodle? poodle or bichon maltese?

If you still can't, we have the solution, The Maltipoo, a mestizo of both races.

You may also be interested in: Poodle or Pomeranian? 2 breeds of pure furry love

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