Borzoi vs Maltese

Hound · Large vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Borzoi is the larger breed at 75–105 lbs (males) vs 7 lbs for the Maltese.
  • The Maltese typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Maltese sheds less.
  • The Maltese is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBorzoiMaltese
Group
HoundToy
Size
LargeToy
Origin
RussiaMalta
Height (male)
28"7–9"
Height (female)
26"7–9"
Weight (male)
75–105 lbs7 lbs
Weight (female)
60–85 lbs7 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
9–14 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Very Low (1/5)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
Moderate (3/5)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
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Borzoi

The Borzoi is a regal, affectionate, quiet Russian wolfhound — aristocratic sighthound with the long elegant snout. Originally from Russia, this large hound breed typically weighs 75–105 lbs and lives 9–14 years. Breeders describe them as regal, affectionate, quiet.

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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Borzoi health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Anesthesia sensitivity

Maltese health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Liver shunt
  • Dental issues
  • White shaker syndrome