West Highland White Terrier
VS
Maltese
West Highland White Terrier vs Maltese
Compare West Highland White Terrier 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
West Highland White Terrier
Maltese
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
27 – 28 cm
20 – 25 cm
Weight
7 – 9 kg
3 – 4 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 16 years
12 – 15 years
Child friendly
5/5
3/5
Energy level
3/5
2/5
Intelligence
3/5
3/5
Trainability
3/5
3/5
Health
2/5
4/5
Grooming needs
5/5
3/5
Shedding
3/5
1/5
Barking level
4/5
3/5
Aggressiveness
3/5
2/5
Characteristics
West Highland White Terrier
Great with kids
Small
Maltese
Tiny
Summary
About West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier is a small, sturdy Scottish terrier with a harsh white coat that sheds lightly. Confident, vocal and independent yet affectionate, it suits city or country homes. Needs daily walks, mental stimulation, regular grooming and consistent, reward‑based training.
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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