Maltese vs Pomeranian
Toy · Toy vs Toy · Toy
MalteseToy
A gentle, playful, charming aristocrat — ancient Mediterranean lapdog with a flowing snow-white coat.
Weight: 7 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
PomeranianToy
A bold, lively, inquisitive fluffy spitz — descended from sled dogs, now under 10 lbs of pure attitude.
Weight: 3–7 lbsLifespan: 12–16 years
Quick take
- • Maltese is the larger breed at 7 lbs (males) vs 3–7 lbs for the Pomeranian.
- • The Pomeranian typically lives longer (12–16 years).
- • The Pomeranian has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Maltese sheds less.
- • The Maltese is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Maltese | Pomeranian |
|---|---|---|
Group | Toy | Toy |
Size | Toy | Toy |
Origin | Malta | Germany |
Height (male) | 7–9" | 6–7" |
Height (female) | 7–9" | 6–7" |
Weight (male) | 7 lbs | 3–7 lbs |
Weight (female) | 7 lbs | 3–7 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 12–16 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
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. | Very Low (1/5) | High (4/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with kids | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
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) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | long | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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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 Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a bold, lively, inquisitive fluffy spitz — descended from sled dogs, now under 10 lbs of pure attitude. Originally from Germany, this toy toy breed typically weighs 3–7 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as bold, lively, inquisitive.
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Maltese health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Liver shunt
- • Dental issues
- • White shaker syndrome
Pomeranian health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Tracheal collapse
- • Heart disease
- • Dental issues