Maltese vs French Bulldog
A side-by-side comparison of the Maltese and French Bulldog — temperament, exercise needs, grooming, life expectancy, and family fit.
Maltese
dog
French Bulldog
dog| Maltese | French Bulldog | |
|---|---|---|
| Species | dog | dog |
| Size | small | small |
| Weight | 4-7 lbs (2-3 kg) | 16-28 lbs (7-13 kg) |
| Life expectancy | 12-15 years | 10-12 years |
| Energy level | medium | low |
| Good with children | depends | usually |
| Apartment-friendly | yes | yes |
Temperament & personality
Maltese
Gentle, affectionate, intelligent, responsive, and trusting. They can be spirited and playful.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are affectionate, patient, and easygoing. They form strong bonds with their families and can be particularly attached to one person. While generally good with children, supervision is recommended due to their smaller size. They are alert and make good watchdogs, though they are not excessive barkers. Their even-tempered nature makes them suitable for first-time dog owners.
Exercise & play
Maltese
Low exercise needs, indoor play is often enough. They enjoy companionship.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs have moderate exercise needs, typically 15-20 minutes of walking twice daily. Due to their brachycephalic structure, they are prone to overheating and breathing difficulties, especially in hot or humid weather. Exercise should be limited during peak heat hours. They cannot swim well due to their body structure and should never be left near water unattended. Indoor play and mental stimulation are excellent alternatives.
Living environment
Maltese
Ideal for city and apartment living. They are indoor dogs with low space requirements.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are ideal for apartment living due to their small size, low exercise requirements, and minimal barking. They are indoor dogs that should not be left outside, particularly in extreme temperatures. Air conditioning is recommended in warm climates due to their heat sensitivity. They prefer to remain close to their owners and do well in various living situations, from apartments to houses.
Which is right for you?
The Maltese and French Bulldog both make wonderful companions, but they differ on a few key dimensions that will likely decide which is right for your household.
- The Maltese (medium) is generally less demanding to exercise than the French Bulldog (low).