Maltese
VS
Irish Terrier
Maltese vs Irish Terrier
Compare Maltese and Irish 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
Irish Terrier
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
20 – 25 cm
44 – 50 cm
Weight
3 – 4 kg
11 – 15 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 15 years
13 – 15 years
Child friendly
3/5
5/5
Energy level
2/5
4/5
Intelligence
3/5
4/5
Trainability
3/5
2/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
3/5
3/5
Shedding
1/5
1/5
Barking level
3/5
4/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
3/5
Characteristics
Maltese
Tiny
Irish Terrier
Great with kids
High energy
Super smart
Stubborn
Medium
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 Irish Terrier
Medium, athletic terrier with a wiry red coat, low shedding when properly groomed. Intelligent, energetic, and independent, needing daily exercise and mental stimulation. Deeply loyal and people‑oriented, a keen watchdog, with strong prey drive and sometimes challenging with other dogs.
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