Maltichon Dog Breed

The Maltichon, as a mixed breed, is not a member of official breed groups of kennel clubs. No info exists about the specific origin of these hybrids, either, but they were likely developed as part of the designer dog "explosion" in the late 20th century in North America. These small, white-haired dogs will make affectionate, enthusiastic companions for families of any size (particularly seniors or people living in apartments).

A few facts about the Bichon-Maltese mix dog: they're small-sized, averaging 10 inches at the shoulders in height and 11 pounds in weight; they have white, fluffy or silky coats that don't shed much; and like their parent breeds, they don't need too much exercise.

Some advantages and drawbacks to owning a Maltese-Bichon mix:

The Maltichon, as a Maltese-Bichon Frise cross, is the perfect example of a "designer dog breed." Both parent breeds are highly prized toy-sized dogs--so obviously their offspring will be the same. The Maltese and Bichon both have excellent qualities for the right owners, and luckily the Maltichon inherits some or all those great traits.

These hybrids' coats are always white in color, and they're stunning. The coats can be long and silky like that of the Maltese, or fluffy and wavy to curly like the Bichon's. They'll need regular grooming to help minimize mats and tangles, and owners may have to deal with tear stains under the dog's eyes--but that extra care will be worth it!

The Bichon Frise-Maltese mix is also a fantastic companion, especially for senior citizens. They're almost human-like in their tendencies for showing affection, and will be excellent for those without much other interaction.

The Maltichon, though energetic, won't need a ton of exercise due to its small size. These little dogs will normally fulfill their daily activity requirements just running around being their active selves.

In terms of physical features, the Maltichon doesn't see a lot of variety. Individual dogs may differ slightly in regards to head or ear size, or leg or tail length--but those variations don't constitute a specific breed sub-type.

The main variety within this mixed breed is in size. Because some people like to own the smallest dogs they can find, breeders use selective breeding methods to develop Miniature Bichon-Maltese mixes (which are sold with names like the "Bichon-Maltese Toy," "Bichon-Maltese Teacup," or "Bichon-Maltese Mini Toy"). And these dogs are indeed tiny--as small as four inches in height and five pounds in weight.

Neither is there much variation in coat. A Maltichon's coat is almost always white, and can be silky or fluffy (or most likely, somewhere in between).

Affectionate, intelligent, energetic, fun-loving, and sometimes fussy, the Maltichon temperament is one of friendliness and curiosity. These hybrids are very docile and charming, and make fantastic companions for the right owners. Maltichons usually get along great with kids and other pets too, especially if they're raised together. A few Maltichons may develop Small Dog Syndrome (excessive fussiness and attempts at dominance) if they're not taught proper respect, so training and socialization, starting when the dog is a puppy if possible, is recommended to ensure appropriate behavior.

Another of the Bichon-Maltese characteristics is a willingness to please, so training these hybrids is usually pretty easy. Maltichons will generally be able to learn tasks, tricks, and commands without too many repetitions. As with any dog, firm, consistent, reward-based training methods are best.

And the Maltichon personality makes these hybrids very alert, so they'll be decent watchdogs. While they'll usually sound a vocal alarm at unknown sights or sounds, Maltichons are just too small to neutralize any potential threats.

The Maltichon, due to hybrid vigor (in which a crossbred dog inherits the healthiest traits of its parent breeds), is very healthy. Still, a few Maltichons may suffer ailments common to both parents, including patellar luxation, hypothyroidism, and allergies. Potential owners are advised to ask breeders for health screenings for the dog and/or its parents, or owners can have their own veterinarians do the screenings.

Life expectancy for Maltichons is 12-15 years.