Collie (Rough) vs Maltese

Herding · Large vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Collie (Rough) is the larger breed at 60–75 lbs (males) vs 7 lbs for the Maltese.
  • The Maltese typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Collie (Rough) has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Maltese sheds less.
  • The Collie (Rough) is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCollie (Rough)Maltese
Group
HerdingToy
Size
LargeToy
Origin
ScotlandMalta
Height (male)
24–26"7–9"
Height (female)
22–24"7–9"
Weight (male)
60–75 lbs7 lbs
Weight (female)
50–65 lbs7 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)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.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)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
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Collie (Rough)

The Collie (Rough) is a devoted, graceful, proud Scottish herder — Lassie, the world's most famous fictional dog. Originally from Scotland, this large herding breed typically weighs 60–75 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as devoted, graceful, proud.

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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Collie (Rough) health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Collie eye anomaly
  • MDR1 gene mutation
  • Hip dysplasia

Maltese health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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