Shetland Sheepdog
VS
Maltese
Shetland Sheepdog vs Maltese
Compare Shetland Sheepdog 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
Shetland Sheepdog
Maltese
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
35 – 37 cm
20 – 25 cm
Weight
6 – 12 kg
3 – 4 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 13 years
12 – 15 years
Child friendly
3/5
3/5
Energy level
4/5
2/5
Intelligence
5/5
3/5
Trainability
3/5
3/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
4/5
3/5
Shedding
5/5
1/5
Barking level
5/5
3/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
2/5
Characteristics
Shetland Sheepdog
High energy
Super smart
Small
Maltese
Tiny
Summary
About Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog is a small to medium, agile herding breed with a dense double coat and striking colors. Bright, sensitive, and very people focused, it bonds closely with family, is reserved with strangers, excels in dog sports, and needs regular grooming, daily walks, and mental exercise.
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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