Maltese
VS
Belgian Malinois
Maltese vs Belgian Malinois
Compare Maltese and Belgian Malinois side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
Maltese
Belgian Malinois
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
20 – 25 cm
57 – 62 cm
Weight
3 – 4 kg
20 – 30 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 15 years
10 – 14 years
Child friendly
3/5
3/5
Energy level
2/5
3/5
Intelligence
3/5
5/5
Trainability
3/5
5/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
3/5
3/5
Shedding
1/5
3/5
Barking level
3/5
4/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
3/5
Characteristics
Maltese
Tiny
Belgian Malinois
Super smart
Easy to train
Large
Summary
About Maltese
The Maltese is a small, sturdy companion dog with a long, white silky coat and expressive dark eyes. Affectionate and people oriented, it adapts well to apartments with daily walks. It needs regular grooming, dental care and gentle training, and often enjoys a long, active life.
About Belgian Malinois
Belgian Malinois: medium‑large, lean, and highly athletic herding dog with a short fawn coat and black mask. Extremely intelligent, intense, loyal, and people‑focused. Needs firm structure, daily mental work, and heavy exercise; thrives with experienced, very active owners.
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