Maltese vs. Coton Eskimo: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Malteses or Coton Eskimos hypoallergenic, or neither?

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Malteses are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Unfortunately, the Coton Eskimo is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Maltese and Coton Eskimo dogs?

Active
Easygoing
Intelligent
Responsive
Docile
Gentle
Playful
Sweet
Tempered

Playful
Independent
Energetic
Protective
Alert
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Lively
Trainable
Vocal

Shedding Level

Do Malteses shed more than Coton Eskimos, or which breed sheds more, Malteses or Coton Eskimos?

1 / 5

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

4 / 5

Coton Eskimos are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Maltese or Coton Eskimo?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Coton Eskimos make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Origin

What is the origin of Maltese and Coton Eskimo dog breeds?

Malta

​United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Maltese and Coton Eskimo breeds?

terrier

Coton de Tulear, American Eskimo

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Maltese and Coton Eskimo?

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

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

Date of Birth

When were Maltese and Coton Eskimo breeds first developed?

ancient times

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Maltese and Coton Eskimo dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Maltese and Coton Eskimo?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Maltese and Coton Eskimo breeds?

White

White
Pied
Cream

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Maltese and Coton Eskimo breeds?

5 / 5

Malteses are known for their coat length.

3 / 5

Coton Eskimos have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Maltese and Coton Eskimo?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Maltese and Coton Eskimo?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Maltese and Coton Eskimo?

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.

A Coton Eskimo can have a litter of 4-6 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

Malteses are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

4 / 5

Coton Eskimos are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Maltese and Coton Eskimo, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Maltese and Coton Eskimo 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 Coton Eskimo breeds?

Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Obesity

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Maltese and Coton Eskimo?

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

Patellar Luxation
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Heart Murmur

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Maltese and Coton Eskimo breeds?

Eye
Knee
Liver Ultrasound
CT Scan
Dental Examination
Physical Examination

X-Rays
MRI
CT Scan
Physical Examination
Blood Work
Ophthalmic Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Malteses and Coton Eskimos compare?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Coton Eskimos' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Social Needs

Maltese vs Coton Eskimo social needs comparison

5 / 5

Maltese and Coton Eskimo have very high social needs. These needs include regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Maltese vs Coton Eskimo exercise need comparison.

1 / 5

Malteses require minimal physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.

3 / 5

Coton Eskimos need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Maltese or Coton Eskimo?

3 / 5

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

2 / 5

Coton Eskimos sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Tendency to Bark

Do Malteses or Coton Eskimos bark more/less frequently?

5 / 5

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

3 / 5

Coton Eskimos bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Maltese vs Coton Eskimo?

3 / 5

Roaming urge

Maltese vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

1 / 5

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Maltese or Coton Eskimo - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

2 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Malteses or Coton Eskimos?

Both Maltese and Coton Eskimo 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

Walks per Week

How many miles should Maltese or Coton Eskimo 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 Coton Eskimo, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Malteses or Coton Eskimos 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 Coton Eskimos 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 Coton Eskimos?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Coton Eskimos require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Maltese and Coton Eskimo dogs?

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

Coton Eskimo should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Malteses and Coton Eskimos?

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Dematter
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Maltese or Coton Eskimo 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 15-25 pound (7 - 11 kg) Coton Eskimo 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 Coton Eskimo?

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

The average cost of a Coton Eskimo is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Maltese or Coton Eskimo?

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 a Coton Eskimo is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 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 Coton Eskimos

2 / 5

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

4 / 5

Coton Eskimo is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do Maltese and Coton Eskimo 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 Coton Eskimo?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Maltese or Coton Eskimo?

5 / 5

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

Child Friendly

Do Malteses or Coton Eskimos have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Maltese and Coton Eskimo 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 Coton Eskimo?

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Maltese or Coton Eskimo breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

5 / 5

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

4 / 5

Coton Eskimos are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Maltese or Coton Eskimo?

5 / 5

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

4 / 5

Coton Eskimos are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

How do Maltese or Coton Eskimo dogs interact with other pets?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Maltese or Coton Eskimo?

5 / 5

Malteses are highly friendly around strangers.

3 / 5

Coton Eskimos are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Maltese and Coton Eskimo?

3 / 5

Malteses have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

5 / 5

Coton Eskimos are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Malteses and Coton Eskimos compare?

3 / 5

Malteses are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

4 / 5

Coton Eskimos are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.