Maltese vs. Lagotto Romagnolo: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Maltese or Lagotto Romagnolo?

3 / 5

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

2 / 5

Lagotto Romagnolo has average obesity risk, needs balanced diet, daily walks, and weight monitoring.

Hypoallergenic

Are Malteses or Lagotto Romagnolos hypoallergenic, or neither?

Both Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo 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 Lagotto Romagnolo dogs?

Active
Easygoing
Intelligent
Responsive
Docile
Gentle
Playful
Sweet
Tempered

Cheerful
Loving
Trainable
Intelligent
Loyal
Social

Shedding Level

Do Malteses shed more than Lagotto Romagnolos, or which breed sheds more, Malteses or Lagotto Romagnolos?

1 / 5

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

2 / 5

Lagotto Romagnolos are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Maltese or Lagotto Romagnolo?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

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

Origin

What is the origin of Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo dog breeds?

Malta

Italy

Ancestry

What are the origins of Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo breeds?

terrier

water dog

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo?

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
Continental Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
National Kennel Club
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo breeds first developed?

ancient times

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo?

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

Sporting

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo dogs?

Brown

Hazel
Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo?

Black

Black
Brown
Isabella

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo breeds?

White

Brown
Brown
Cream
Fawn
Pied
Sable

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo breeds?

5 / 5

Malteses are known for their coat length.

2 / 5

Lagotto Romagnolos have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo?

Straight

Curly

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo?

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 Lagotto Romagnolo can have a litter of 14-16 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.

3 / 5

Lagotto Romagnolos have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Health Issues

Between Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo 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 Lagotto Romagnolo breeds?

Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Obesity

Usually A Very Healthy Breed
Lysosomal Storage Disease

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo?

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

Cerebellar Abiotrophy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo breeds?

Eye
Knee
Liver Ultrasound
CT Scan
Dental Examination
Physical Examination

Blood
X-Rays
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Malteses and Lagotto Romagnolos compare?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

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

Social Needs

Maltese vs Lagotto Romagnolo social needs comparison

5 / 5

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

4 / 5

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

Exercise Needed

Maltese vs Lagotto Romagnolo exercise need comparison.

1 / 5

Malteses require minimal physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.

4 / 5

Lagotto Romagnolos require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Maltese or Lagotto Romagnolo?

3 / 5

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

2 / 5

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

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Maltese or Lagotto Romagnolo?

1 / 5

The Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo 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 Lagotto Romagnolos bark more/less frequently?

5 / 5

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

4 / 5

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a vocal breed that frequently barks and howls, and may not be suitable for those seeking a quiet companion.

Territorial

Is the Maltese or Lagotto Romagnolo 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.

3 / 5

While Lagotto Romagnolo 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 Lagotto Romagnolo?

3 / 5

2 / 5

Roaming urge

Maltese vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

1 / 5

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Maltese or Lagotto Romagnolo - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo 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

Walk, Run, Puzzle Toys, Go to Beach, Go Camping, Swim, Tug-of-war, Fetch, Shake, Eating Snacks, Sleeping, Chase, Walks, Tricks, Tag, Stairs, Snuggle

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Malteses or Lagotto Romagnolos?

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.

Lagotto Romagnolos 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

1 / 5

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Maltese or Lagotto Romagnolo 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 Lagotto Romagnolo, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Malteses or Lagotto Romagnolos require more exercise?

Both Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo 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 Lagotto Romagnolos?

3 / 5

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

5 / 5

Lagotto Romagnolos 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 Lagotto Romagnolo dogs?

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

In general Lagotto Romagnolo should be brushed at least once a month. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes, especially if they enjoyed it

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Malteses and Lagotto Romagnolos?

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Maltese or Lagotto Romagnolo 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 28-35 pound (13 - 16 kg) Lagotto Romagnolo 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 Lagotto Romagnolo?

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

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

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Maltese or Lagotto Romagnolo?

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 Lagotto Romagnolo 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 Lagotto Romagnolos

2 / 5

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

3 / 5

Lagotto Romagnolos are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Sensitivity Level

How do Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

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

3 / 5

Lagotto Romagnolos have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Maltese vs Lagotto Romagnolo?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Maltese or Lagotto Romagnolo?

5 / 5

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

3 / 5

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

Child Friendly

Do Malteses or Lagotto Romagnolos have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo 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 Lagotto Romagnolo?

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Maltese or Lagotto Romagnolo breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

5 / 5

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

3 / 5

Lagotto Romagnolos are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Maltese or Lagotto Romagnolo?

5 / 5

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

3 / 5

Lagotto Romagnolos are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do Maltese or Lagotto Romagnolo dogs interact with other pets?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Maltese or Lagotto Romagnolo?

5 / 5

Malteses are highly friendly around strangers.

3 / 5

Lagotto Romagnolos are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Maltese and Lagotto Romagnolo?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Lagotto Romagnolos are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Malteses and Lagotto Romagnolos compare?

3 / 5

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