Maltese vs Jack Russell Terrier
Compare Maltese and Jack Russell 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
Jack Russell Terrier
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
20 – 25 cm
25 – 30 cm
Weight
3 – 4 kg
5 – 6 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 15 years
13 – 16 years
Child friendly
3/5
5/5
Energy level
2/5
5/5
Intelligence
3/5
5/5
Trainability
3/5
5/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
3/5
2/5
Shedding
1/5
3/5
Barking level
3/5
5/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
3/5
Characteristics
Maltese
Tiny
Jack Russell Terrier
Great with kids
High energy
Super smart
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 Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terrier: small, sturdy, energetic fox-hunting terrier with bold, intelligent nature. Needs 1–2 hours of daily exercise plus mental work. Predominantly white, three coat types, strong digging and prey drive. Affectionate with family but demanding and unsuited to very sedentary homes.
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