Maltese vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Toy · Toy vs Herding · Small

Quick take
  • Pembroke Welsh Corgi is the larger breed at 24–30 lbs (males) vs 7 lbs for the Maltese.
  • The Maltese typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Pembroke Welsh Corgi has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Maltese sheds less.
  • The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitMaltesePembroke Welsh Corgi
Group
ToyHerding
Size
ToySmall
Origin
MaltaWales
Height (male)
7–9"10–12"
Height (female)
7–9"10–12"
Weight (male)
7 lbs24–30 lbs
Weight (female)
7 lbs24–28 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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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.

About the Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a smart, alert, affectionate herder on stumpy legs — the favorite breed of Queen Elizabeth II. Originally from Wales, this small herding breed typically weighs 24–30 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as smart, alert, affectionate.

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Maltese health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Pembroke Welsh Corgi health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • IVDD
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Degenerative myelopathy
  • Obesity