Maltese vs. Spanish Water Dog: Breed Differences and Similarities

Maltese

Maltese

Spanish Water Dog

Spanish Water Dog

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Maltese or Spanish Water Dog?

3 / 5

The Maltese and Spanish Water Dog breeds have an average risk of becoming obese. Daily walks and a balanced diet of quality dry dog food can help maintain a healthy weight. An active lifestyle and monitoring weight regularly is recommended.

Hypoallergenic

Are Malteses or Spanish Water Dogs hypoallergenic, or neither?

Both Maltese and Spanish Water Dog 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 Spanish Water Dog dogs?

Active
Easygoing
Intelligent
Responsive
Docile
Gentle
Playful
Sweet
Tempered

Affectionate
Diligent
Trainable
Athletic
Loyal

Shedding Level

Do Malteses shed more than Spanish Water Dogs, or which breed sheds more, Malteses or Spanish Water Dogs?

1 / 5

Maltese or Spanish Water Dog will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Maltese or Spanish Water Dog?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Spanish Water Dogs make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Origin

What is the origin of Maltese and Spanish Water Dog dog breeds?

Malta

Spain

Ancestry

What are the origins of Maltese and Spanish Water Dog breeds?

terrier

Ancient European Water Dog

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Maltese and Spanish Water Dog?

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

Date of Birth

When were Maltese and Spanish Water Dog breeds first developed?

ancient times

10th Century

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Maltese and Spanish Water Dog?

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

Herding (AKC:2015)
Gun Dog (UKC)

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Maltese and Spanish Water Dog?

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 Spanish Water Dog can have a litter of 10-14 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

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

4 / 5

Spanish Water Dogs are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Maltese and Spanish Water Dog, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Maltese and Spanish Water Dog 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 Spanish Water Dog breeds?

Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Obesity

Hip Dysplasia
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Maltese and Spanish Water Dog?

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

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hypothyroidism
Addison's Disease

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Maltese and Spanish Water Dog breeds?

Eye
Knee
Liver Ultrasound
CT Scan
Dental Examination
Physical Examination

Hip And Eyes
Blood Test
Thyroid Tests
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Malteses and Spanish Water Dogs compare?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

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

Social Needs

Maltese vs Spanish Water Dog 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

Spanish Water Dog has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Maltese vs Spanish Water Dog exercise need comparison.

1 / 5

Malteses require minimal physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.

4 / 5

Spanish Water Dogs require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Maltese or Spanish Water Dog?

3 / 5

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

2 / 5

Spanish Water Dogs sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Maltese or Spanish Water Dog?

1 / 5

Maltese minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

2 / 5

Spanish Water Dog has low drooling tendency, suitable for those who dislike drool marks.

Tendency to Bark

Do Malteses or Spanish Water Dogs bark more/less frequently?

5 / 5

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

3 / 5

Spanish Water Dogs 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 Spanish Water Dog 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.

5 / 5

Spanish Water Dog dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Maltese vs Spanish Water Dog?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Maltese vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

1 / 5

4 / 5

Prey Drive

Maltese or Spanish Water Dog - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Maltese and Spanish Water Dog 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

Long walks, Play

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

2 / 5

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Malteses or Spanish Water Dogs?

3 / 5

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

2 / 5

The Spanish Water Dog has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Malteses vs Spanish Water Dogs

2 / 5

Maltese and Spanish Water Dog have below-average obedience intelligence compared to other breeds. However, calling them "dumb dogs" is unjust. While Maltese and Spanish Water Dog lack obedience and working intelligence, they compensate for it with their remarkable ability to comprehend human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do Maltese and Spanish Water Dog 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 Spanish Water Dog?

5 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Maltese or Spanish Water Dog?

5 / 5

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

2 / 5

Spanish Water Dogs can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Child Friendly

Do Malteses or Spanish Water Dogs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Malteses are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

2 / 5

Spanish Water Dogs are not the best choice for families with kids.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Maltese or Spanish Water Dog?

4 / 5

2 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Maltese or Spanish Water Dog breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

5 / 5

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

2 / 5

Spanish Water Dogs 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 Spanish Water Dog?

5 / 5

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

3 / 5

Spanish Water Dogs are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do Maltese or Spanish Water Dog dogs interact with other pets?

5 / 5

2 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Maltese or Spanish Water Dog?

5 / 5

Malteses are highly friendly around strangers.

2 / 5

Spanish Water Dogs are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Maltese and Spanish Water Dog?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Spanish Water Dogs are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Malteses and Spanish Water Dogs compare?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Spanish Water Dogs are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

Compare Maltese with other breeds