Maltese vs Saluki
Toy · Toy vs Hound · Large
MalteseToy
A gentle, playful, charming aristocrat — ancient Mediterranean lapdog with a flowing snow-white coat.
Weight: 7 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
SalukiLarge
A graceful, dignified, gentle Persian sighthound — one of the world's oldest breeds, depicted on Egyptian tombs.
Weight: 40–65 lbsLifespan: 10–17 years
Quick take
- • Saluki is the larger breed at 40–65 lbs (males) vs 7 lbs for the Maltese.
- • The Saluki has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Maltese sheds less.
- • The Maltese is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Maltese | Saluki |
|---|---|---|
Group | Toy | Hound |
Size | Toy | Large |
Origin | Malta | Egypt |
Height (male) | 7–9" | 23–28" |
Height (female) | 7–9" | 23–28" |
Weight (male) | 7 lbs | 40–65 lbs |
Weight (female) | 7 lbs | 40–65 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 10–17 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) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very Low (1/5) | Low (2/5) |
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) | Very Low (1/5) |
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) | Low (2/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | long | medium |
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 Saluki
The Saluki is a graceful, dignified, gentle Persian sighthound — one of the world's oldest breeds, depicted on Egyptian tombs. Originally from Egypt, this large hound breed typically weighs 40–65 lbs and lives 10–17 years. Breeders describe them as graceful, dignified, gentle.
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Maltese health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Liver shunt
- • Dental issues
- • White shaker syndrome
Saluki health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Heart disease
- • Cancer
- • Anesthesia sensitivity