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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Maltese

Side-by-side comparison of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Maltese: energy, shedding, trainability, apartment fit, and more.

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Quick Verdict

Better fit for families with kids

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Gentle and attentiveiMaltese: Best with older kidsi

Easier for first-time owners

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Very beginner-friendlyMaltese: Manageable

Lower shedding

Maltese

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: ModerateMaltese: Low

Lower exercise needs

Maltese

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: 30–60 min/dayMaltese: 20–30 min/day

Lower barking tendency

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Low to ModerateMaltese: Moderate to High

Easiest to train

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: HighMaltese: Moderate

Lower grooming needs

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: ModerateiMaltese: Highi

Better with cats

Similar for both

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Gentle; usually a good fitiMaltese: Low prey drive; gentlei

Verdicts are based on trait ratings. Always evaluate individual dogs and confirm behavior with the shelter, foster, or rescue organization.

Stats at a Glance

TraitCavalier King Charles SpanielMaltese
SizeSmallSmall
EnergyLow to ModerateLow to Moderate
SheddingModerateLow
GroomingModerateHigh
TrainabilityHighModerate
BarkingLow to ModerateModerate to High
Apartment FriendlyYesYes
Good With KidsYesGentle and attentiveOlder kids onlyBest with older kids
Good With DogsOftenOftenWith socialization
Good With CatsOftenGentle; usually a good fitOftenLow prey drive; gentle
Daily Exercise30–60 min/day20–30 min/day
Typical Lifespan12–15 years12–15 years
Beginner FriendlyVery beginner-friendlyManageable

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or a Maltese better for apartments?
Both breeds have similar apartment suitability — well-suited to apartment living. Check your building's noise policy and how much daily outdoor time you can reliably commit to.
Which breed sheds more, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or Maltese?
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel sheds more — moderate shedding compared with the Maltese's low shedding. If keeping loose hair to a minimum matters, the Maltese usually has the advantage.
Are Cavalier King Charles Spaniels or Malteses easier to train?
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is generally easier to train and is typically highly trainable, while the Maltese is moderately trainable. Both do best with consistent, reward-based training started early.
Which needs more exercise, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or a Maltese?
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel needs more exercise — typically 30–60 min/day daily. The Maltese typically needs 20–30 min/day. If a lower exercise commitment suits your lifestyle better, the Maltese has the edge.
Which is better with kids, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or a Maltese?
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is more often the easier fit for homes with children, while a Maltese is more variable and depends more on the individual dog, training, and supervision. Calm handling and adult oversight matter with either breed.
How much grooming does a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel need compared to a Maltese?
Maltese requires more grooming — high grooming needs, often including regular professional grooming — compared with the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel's moderate grooming needs. Factor in the ongoing time and cost of regular coat maintenance if you are considering the Maltese.