Maltese vs English Toy Terrier
Compare Maltese and English Toy Terrier 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
English Toy Terrier
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
20 – 25 cm
25 – 30 cm
Weight
3 – 4 kg
2 – 4 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 15 years
11 – 13 years
Child friendly
3/5
3/5
Energy level
2/5
2/5
Intelligence
3/5
3/5
Trainability
3/5
4/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
3/5
2/5
Shedding
1/5
2/5
Barking level
3/5
4/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
2/5
Characteristics
Maltese
Tiny
English Toy Terrier
Low grooming
Easy to train
Tiny
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 English Toy Terrier
Small, elegant black-and-tan toy terrier with a fine but athletic build and low‑maintenance short coat. Loyal and people-focused, often bonding closely with one person. Lively, intelligent and sensitive, needs daily exercise, mental stimulation and protection from temperature extremes.
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