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

Keeshond has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

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 Keeshond is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Active
Easygoing
Intelligent
Responsive
Docile
Gentle
Playful
Sweet
Tempered

Agile
Obedient
Quick
Intelligent
Bright
Playful
Sturdy

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

Keeshonds shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

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

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

Malta

Netherlands

terrier

Samoyed, Chow Chow, Finnish Spitz, Norwegian Elkhound, Pomeranian

ancient times

1700s

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

Non Sporting (AKC:1930)
Northern Breeds (UKC)

Brown

Brown

Black

Black

White

Black
Gray
Fawn
Silver
White
Sable
Brindle

Malteses are known for their coat length.

Keeshonds have longer coats compared to most dogs.

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 Keeshond 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.

Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Obesity

Renal Cortical Hypoplasia
Hip Dysplasia
Mitral Valve Disease
Heart Disease

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

Patellar Luxation
Epilepsy
Skin Problems
Congenital Heart Defect

Eye
Knee
Liver Ultrasound
CT Scan
Dental Examination
Physical Examination

Cardiac
Eye
Hip
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

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

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

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

Keeshond has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Malteses require minimal physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.

Keeshonds need only a small amount of physical activity, ideal for busy or elderly people or those with limited space.

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

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

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

While Keeshond dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

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

Walk, Run, Frisbee, Play, Fetch, Eating Snacks, Chewing, Playing, Sniffing, Heel

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 Keeshond, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

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

Keeshonds 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.

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

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 35-45 pound (16 - 20 kg) Keeshond feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

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

The average cost of a Keeshond is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.

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 Keeshond is between $84 - $95. This makes an average of $1008 - $1140 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.

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

Keeshond is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

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

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

Malteses make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Keeshonds are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

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

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

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

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