Pug
VS
Maltese
Pug vs Maltese
Compare Pug and Maltese 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
Pug
Maltese
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
31 – 35 cm
20 – 25 cm
Weight
5 – 9 kg
3 – 4 kg
Life expectancy
10 – 14 years
12 – 15 years
Child friendly
4/5
3/5
Energy level
3/5
2/5
Intelligence
3/5
3/5
Trainability
3/5
3/5
Health
1/5
4/5
Grooming needs
3/5
3/5
Shedding
4/5
1/5
Barking level
3/5
3/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
2/5
Characteristics
Pug
Great with kids
Small
Maltese
Tiny
Summary
About Pug
Small, sturdy companion dog with wrinkled face, curled tail and expressive eyes, usually 6–8 kg and suited to city homes. Affectionate, people focused and playful, needs moderate gentle exercise, close family contact, careful weight control and extra management in hot weather due to its short nose.
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.
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