Maltese vs. Afghan Hound: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Maltese or Afghan Hound?

3 / 5

Maltese has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

1 / 5

Afghan Hound has low obesity risk, but needs exercise and food monitoring for optimal health.

Hypoallergenic

Are Malteses or Afghan Hounds hypoallergenic, or neither?

Both Maltese and Afghan Hound are hypoallergenic dogs, which make them ideal pets for people who are allergic to pets. Although no dogs are completely hypoallergenic, these breeds come very close and are great choices for those who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Maltese and Afghan Hound dogs?

Active
Easygoing
Intelligent
Responsive
Docile
Gentle
Playful
Sweet
Tempered

Aloof
Dignified
Independent
Clownish
Happy

Shedding Level

Do Malteses shed more than Afghan Hounds, or which breed sheds more, Malteses or Afghan Hounds?

1 / 5

Malteses shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

3 / 5

Afghan Hounds are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Maltese or Afghan Hound?

3 / 5

Malteses are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

1 / 5

Avoid Afghan Hounds as watchdogs - they're not effective.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Maltese and Afghan Hound breeds?

terrier

saluki (persian greyhound)

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Maltese and Afghan Hound?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

Date of Birth

When were Maltese and Afghan Hound breeds first developed?

ancient times

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Maltese and Afghan Hound?

Toy (AKC:1888)
Companion Breed & Show Breed (UKC)

Sporting (AKC:1926)
Sighthound & Pariah (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Maltese and Afghan Hound dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Maltese and Afghan Hound?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Maltese and Afghan Hound breeds?

White

Black
Red
Cream
Blue
Silver
White

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Maltese and Afghan Hound breeds?

5 / 5

The coat of Maltese and Afghan Hound dogs is generally known for its length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Maltese and Afghan Hound?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Maltese and Afghan Hound?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Maltese and Afghan Hound?

A Maltese can have a litter of 15-18 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

An Afghan Hound can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

5 / 5

Maltese and Afghan Hounds are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Maltese and Afghan Hound, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Maltese and Afghan Hound breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Maltese and Afghan Hound breeds?

Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Obesity

Demodectic Mange
Cataracts
Hip Dysplasia
Thyroid
Corneal Opacities

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Maltese and Afghan Hound?

Mono/Bilateral Cryptorchidism
Hydrocephalus
Dental Disease
Portosystemic Shunt
Shaker Dog Syndrome

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Retinal Dysplasia
Glaucoma

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Maltese and Afghan Hound breeds?

Eye
Knee
Liver Ultrasound
CT Scan
Dental Examination
Physical Examination

Eye
Hip X-Rays
Heart

Energy

How do the energy levels of Malteses and Afghan Hounds compare?

3 / 5

Malteses are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

5 / 5

Afghan Hounds thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Social Needs

Maltese vs Afghan Hound social needs comparison

5 / 5

Maltese has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

3 / 5

Afghan Hound has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Exercise Needed

Maltese vs Afghan Hound exercise need comparison.

1 / 5

Malteses require minimal physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.

4 / 5

Afghan Hounds require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Maltese or Afghan Hound?

3 / 5

Malteses have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

1 / 5

Afghan Hounds are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Maltese or Afghan Hound?

1 / 5

The Maltese and Afghan Hound breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Malteses or Afghan Hounds bark more/less frequently?

5 / 5

Maltese dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

1 / 5

Afghan Hounds are typically quiet and only bark when needed, such as to alert their owner or when in distress.

Territorial

Is the Maltese or Afghan Hound a better guard dog?

4 / 5

Maltese dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.

1 / 5

Afghan Hound dogs are not typically good guard dogs due to their lack of protective nature and weak territorial drive.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Maltese vs Afghan Hound?

3 / 5

Roaming urge

Maltese vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

1 / 5

5 / 5

Prey Drive

Maltese or Afghan Hound - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Maltese and Afghan Hound entertained?

Walk, Cuddle, Sleep, Walking, Petting, Sniffing, Exploring, Playing, Running, Snuggle, Chasing, Wrestling, Being cute, Playdate, Go to Park, Frisbee, Swim, Chase, Bath time, Hide & Seek, Off-leash, Eating Snacks, Tag

Walking, Running

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Malteses or Afghan Hounds?

Both Maltese and Afghan Hound are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

3 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Maltese or Afghan Hound walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Maltese, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Afghan Hound, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Malteses or Afghan Hounds require more exercise?

In general most Malteses usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Afghan Hounds usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Malteses or Afghan Hounds?

3 / 5

The Maltese requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

5 / 5

Afghan Hounds have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Maltese and Afghan Hound dogs?

Ideally, both Maltese and Afghan Hound should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) to improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Malteses and Afghan Hounds?

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Maltese or Afghan Hound in cups?

For an average 4-7 pound (2 - 3 kg) Maltese feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 44-60 pound (20 - 27 kg) Afghan Hound feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Maltese or Afghan Hound?

The average cost of a Maltese is somewhere $1.40 - $1.80 per day.

The average cost of an Afghan Hound is somewhere $3.90 - $4.20 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Maltese or Afghan Hound?

The average per month expenses of a Maltese is between $42 - $53. This makes an average of $504 - $636 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of an Afghan Hound is between $112 - $126. This makes an average of $1344 - $1512 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Malteses vs Afghan Hounds

2 / 5

Maltese has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

1 / 5

Afghan Hound is an independent and stubborn breed with low obedience intelligence, making training a test of patience.

Sensitivity Level

How do Maltese and Afghan Hound compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Maltese vs Afghan Hound?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Maltese or Afghan Hound?

5 / 5

Malteses and Afghan Hounds are known for being excellent apartment dogs. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Malteses or Afghan Hounds have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Maltese and Afghan Hound are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Maltese or Afghan Hound?

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Maltese or Afghan Hound breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

5 / 5

Malteses are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

2 / 5

Afghan Hounds are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Maltese or Afghan Hound?

5 / 5

Malteses are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

3 / 5

Afghan Hounds are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do Maltese or Afghan Hound dogs interact with other pets?

5 / 5

2 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Maltese or Afghan Hound?

5 / 5

Malteses are highly friendly around strangers.

2 / 5

Afghan Hounds are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Maltese and Afghan Hound?

3 / 5

Maltese and Afghan Hound have an average level of playfulness. Like other dogs, they enjoy playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Malteses and Afghan Hounds compare?

3 / 5

Maltese and Afghan Hound dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.