Afghan Hound vs Maltese
Hound · Large vs Toy · Toy
Afghan HoundLarge
An aloof, dignified, ancient sighthound — the supermodel of the dog world with a flowing silken coat.
Weight: 60 lbsLifespan: 12–18 years
MalteseToy
A gentle, playful, charming aristocrat — ancient Mediterranean lapdog with a flowing snow-white coat.
Weight: 7 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Afghan Hound is the larger breed at 60 lbs (males) vs 7 lbs for the Maltese.
- • The Afghan Hound typically lives longer (12–18 years).
- • The Afghan Hound has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Maltese sheds less.
- • The Maltese is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Afghan Hound | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
Group | Hound | Toy |
Size | Large | Toy |
Origin | Afghanistan | Malta |
Height (male) | 27" | 7–9" |
Height (female) | 25" | 7–9" |
Weight (male) | 60 lbs | 7 lbs |
Weight (female) | 50 lbs | 7 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–18 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with kids | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | long | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | Yes |
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About the Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is an aloof, dignified, ancient sighthound — the supermodel of the dog world with a flowing silken coat. Originally from Afghanistan, this large hound breed typically weighs 60 lbs and lives 12–18 years. Breeders describe them as aloof, dignified, independent.
About the Maltese
The Maltese is a gentle, playful, charming aristocrat — ancient Mediterranean lapdog with a flowing snow-white coat. Originally from Malta, this toy toy breed typically weighs 7 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as gentle, playful, charming.
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Afghan Hound health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cataracts
- • Hypothyroidism
Maltese health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Liver shunt
- • Dental issues
- • White shaker syndrome