Maltese vs Rottweiler
Toy · Toy vs Working · Large
MalteseToy
A gentle, playful, charming aristocrat — ancient Mediterranean lapdog with a flowing snow-white coat.
Weight: 7 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
RottweilerLarge
A loyal, loving, confident guardian — descendant of Roman drover dogs, requires firm training.
Weight: 95–135 lbsLifespan: 9–10 years
Quick take
- • Rottweiler is the larger breed at 95–135 lbs (males) vs 7 lbs for the Maltese.
- • The Maltese typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Rottweiler has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Maltese sheds less.
- • The Rottweiler is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Maltese | Rottweiler |
|---|---|---|
Group | Toy | Working |
Size | Toy | Large |
Origin | Malta | Germany |
Height (male) | 7–9" | 24–27" |
Height (female) | 7–9" | 22–25" |
Weight (male) | 7 lbs | 95–135 lbs |
Weight (female) | 7 lbs | 80–100 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 9–10 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) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very Low (1/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very High (5/5) | Low (2/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | High (4/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with kids | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Low (2/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | long | short |
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 Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a loyal, loving, confident guardian — descendant of Roman drover dogs, requires firm training. Originally from Germany, this large working breed typically weighs 95–135 lbs and lives 9–10 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, loving, confident guardian.
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Maltese health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Liver shunt
- • Dental issues
- • White shaker syndrome
Rottweiler health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Elbow dysplasia
- • Cancer
- • Bloat