Greyhound vs Maltese
Hound · Large vs Toy · Toy
GreyhoundLarge
A gentle, independent, noble sighthound — the fastest dog (45 mph) and biggest couch potato off-track.
Weight: 65–70 lbsLifespan: 10–13 years
MalteseToy
A gentle, playful, charming aristocrat — ancient Mediterranean lapdog with a flowing snow-white coat.
Weight: 7 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Greyhound is the larger breed at 65–70 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
| Trait | Greyhound | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
Group | Hound | Toy |
Size | Large | Toy |
Origin | Egypt | Malta |
Height (male) | 28–30" | 7–9" |
Height (female) | 27–28" | 7–9" |
Weight (male) | 65–70 lbs | 7 lbs |
Weight (female) | 60–65 lbs | 7 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–13 years | 12–15 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. | 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 Low (1/5) | 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 | 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. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | short | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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About the Greyhound
The Greyhound is a gentle, independent, noble sighthound — the fastest dog (45 mph) and biggest couch potato off-track. Originally from Egypt, this large hound breed typically weighs 65–70 lbs and lives 10–13 years. Breeders describe them as gentle, independent, noble.
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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Greyhound health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Bloat
- • Bone cancer
- • Anesthesia sensitivity
Maltese health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Liver shunt
- • Dental issues
- • White shaker syndrome