Belgian Tervuren vs Maltese
Herding · Large vs Toy · Toy
Belgian TervurenLarge
A courageous, smart, alert Belgian shepherd — long-haired cousin of the Malinois with rich mahogany coat.
Weight: 55–75 lbsLifespan: 12–14 years
MalteseToy
A gentle, playful, charming aristocrat — ancient Mediterranean lapdog with a flowing snow-white coat.
Weight: 7 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Belgian Tervuren is the larger breed at 55–75 lbs (males) vs 7 lbs for the Maltese.
- • The Maltese typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Belgian Tervuren has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Maltese sheds less.
- • The Belgian Tervuren is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Belgian Tervuren | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
Group | Herding | Toy |
Size | Large | Toy |
Origin | Belgium | Malta |
Height (male) | 24–26" | 7–9" |
Height (female) | 22–24" | 7–9" |
Weight (male) | 55–75 lbs | 7 lbs |
Weight (female) | 45–60 lbs | 7 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–14 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | High (4/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | 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. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | long | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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About the Belgian Tervuren
The Belgian Tervuren is a courageous, smart, alert Belgian shepherd — long-haired cousin of the Malinois with rich mahogany coat. Originally from Belgium, this large herding breed typically weighs 55–75 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, smart, alert.
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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Belgian Tervuren health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Epilepsy
- • Eye disorders
Maltese health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Liver shunt
- • Dental issues
- • White shaker syndrome