Maltese vs. Labrador Retriever: Breed Differences and Similarities
Weight Gain Potential
Which breed eats more: Maltese or Labrador Retriever?
Maltese has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.
Labrador Retriever tends to gain weight easily, needs increased exercise and playtime along with controlled food intake.
Hypoallergenic
Are Malteses or Labrador Retrievers 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 Labrador Retriever 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 Labrador Retriever dogs?
Active
Easygoing
Intelligent
Responsive
Docile
Gentle
Playful
Sweet
Tempered
Affectionate
Cheerful
Friendly
Intelligent
Loyal
Playful
Social
Alert
Energetic
Gentle
Loving
Going
Responsive
Shedding Level
Do Malteses shed more than Labrador Retrievers, or which breed sheds more, Malteses or Labrador Retrievers?
Malteses shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.
Labrador Retrievers 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 Labrador Retriever?
The Maltese and Labrador Retriever dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, these breeds will alert their owner.
Origin
What is the origin of Maltese and Labrador Retriever dog breeds?
Malta
Canada
Ancestry
What are the origins of Maltese and Labrador Retriever breeds?
terrier
St. John's Water Dog
Breed recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize/register Maltese and Labrador Retriever?
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
Canadian Canine Registry
Date of Birth
When were Maltese and Labrador Retriever breeds first developed?
ancient times
1800s
Breed Group
What is the Breed Group of Maltese and Labrador Retriever?
Toy (AKC:1888)
Companion Breed & Show Breed (UKC)
Sporting (AKC:1917)
Gun Dog (UKC)
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of Maltese and Labrador Retriever dogs?
Brown
Hazel
Brown
Amber
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of Maltese and Labrador Retriever?
Black
Black
Brown
Coat Color Possibilites
What are the natural colors of the coat for Maltese and Labrador Retriever breeds?
White
Black
Brown
Cream
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for Maltese and Labrador Retriever breeds?
Malteses are known for their coat length.
Labrador Retrievers have coats that can be either short or medium in length.
Coat Density
What is the density of the coat of Maltese and Labrador Retriever?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of Maltese and Labrador Retriever?
Straight
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for Maltese and Labrador Retriever?
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 Labrador Retriever can have a litter of 10-12 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
Maltese and Labrador Retrievers 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 Labrador Retriever, which breed is more prone to health problems?
Maltese and Labrador Retriever 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 Labrador Retriever breeds?
Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Obesity
Gastric Torsion
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia
Epilepsy
Osteochondritis Dissecans
Minor Concerns
What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Maltese and Labrador Retriever?
Mono/Bilateral Cryptorchidism
Hydrocephalus
Dental Disease
Portosystemic Shunt
Shaker Dog Syndrome
Otitis Externa
Cataract
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Occasional Tests
What occasional tests are recommended for Maltese and Labrador Retriever breeds?
Eye
Knee
Liver Ultrasound
CT Scan
Dental Examination
Physical Examination
Eye
Hip
Elbow
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Ear Examination
Energy
How do the energy levels of Malteses and Labrador Retrievers compare?
Malteses are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.
Labrador Retrievers thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.
Social Needs
Maltese vs Labrador Retriever social needs comparison
Maltese and Labrador Retriever 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 Labrador Retriever exercise need comparison.
Malteses require minimal physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.
Labrador Retrievers need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.
Sleeping Need
Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Maltese or Labrador Retriever?
Malteses have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.
Labrador Retrievers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more/less, Maltese or Labrador Retriever?
Maltese minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.
Labrador Retriever is an average drooler, monitor for excessive drooling which may indicate health issues.
Tendency to Bark
Do Malteses or Labrador Retrievers bark more/less frequently?
Maltese dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.
Labrador Retrievers bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.
Territorial
Is the Maltese or Labrador Retriever a better guard dog?
Maltese dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.
While Labrador Retriever dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.
Mouthiness
Mouthiness Comparison: Maltese vs Labrador Retriever?
Roaming urge
Maltese vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
Maltese or Labrador Retriever - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Past times
What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Maltese and Labrador Retriever 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
Fetch, Tug-of-war, Chase, Dog Parks, Walk, Run, Play, Walking, Cuddling, Exploring, Sniffing, Petting, Running, Boat ride, Swim, Tracking, Chasing, Smelling, Going out, Walks, Frisbee, Road trip, Meeting people, Shake, Swimming, Playdate, Chew, Smell, Walki, Being pet
Activity Level
Which breed has higher energy, Malteses or Labrador Retrievers?
Malteses are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.
Labrador Retrievers are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.
Tolerance of being left alone
Walks per Week
How many miles should Maltese or Labrador Retriever 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 Labrador Retriever, it's at least 15 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
Activity per Day
Do Malteses or Labrador Retrievers require more exercise?
Both Maltese and Labrador Retriever typically require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.
Grooming
Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Malteses or Labrador Retrievers?
The Maltese requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.
The Labrador Retriever is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.
Brushing Frequency
What is the recommended brushing frequency for Maltese and Labrador Retriever dogs?
Ideally, both Maltese and Labrador Retriever 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 Labrador Retrievers?
Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper
Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to Maltese or Labrador Retriever 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 65-80 pound (29 - 36 kg) Labrador Retriever 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.
Daily Cost
Which breed has a higher daily cost, Maltese or Labrador Retriever?
The average cost of a Maltese is somewhere $1.40 - $1.80 per day.
The average cost of a Labrador Retriever is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.
Monthly Cost
Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Maltese or Labrador Retriever?
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 Labrador Retriever is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $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.
Intelligence
Comparing Intelligence: Malteses vs Labrador Retrievers
Maltese has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.
Labrador Retriever is highly intelligent and very trainable.
Sensitivity Level
How do Maltese and Labrador Retriever compare in sensitivity?
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.
Affection Dependance
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Maltese vs Labrador Retriever?
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Maltese or Labrador Retriever?
Malteses make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.
Labrador Retrievers can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.
Child Friendly
Do Malteses or Labrador Retrievers have a friendlier temperament towards children?
Malteses are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.
Labrador Retrievers make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.
Senior-friendly
Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Maltese or Labrador Retriever?
Cat Friendly
Do Maltese or Labrador Retriever breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
Malteses are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.
Labrador Retrievers 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 Labrador Retriever?
Malteses and Labrador Retrievers are very friendly towards other dogs. This breed typically have a happy and affectionate temperament around dogs.
Pet friendly
How do Maltese or Labrador Retriever dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Maltese or Labrador Retriever?
Maltese and Labrador Retriever are known to be very friendly around strangers.
Playfulness
Which breed is more playful between Maltese and Labrador Retriever?
Malteses have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.
Labrador Retrievers 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 Labrador Retrievers compare?
Malteses are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.
The Labrador Retriever is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.
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