Chihuahua vs Maltese
Side-by-side comparison of Chihuahua and Maltese: energy, shedding, trainability, apartment fit, and more.
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Stats at a Glance
| Trait | Chihuahua | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Small |
| Energy | Moderate | Low-Moderate |
| Shedding | Low-Moderate | Low |
| Grooming | Low | High |
| Trainability | Moderate | Moderate |
| Barking | High | High |
| Apartment Friendly | Yes | Yes |
| Good With Kids | Older kids onlySmall size makes them vulnerable to rough handling; best with calm, older children | Older kids onlySmall size makes them vulnerable to rough handling; best with calm, older children |
| Good With Dogs | Varies by socializationOften improves with proper early socialization | Often, with socializationSocialization from an early age improves relations with other dogs |
| Daily Exercise | 20–30 min/day | 20–30 min/day |
| Origin | — | Malta |
Quick Verdict
Best for apartments
Similar
Chihuahua: "Yes"Maltese: "Yes"
Best with kids
Similar
Chihuahua: "Older kids only"Maltese: "Older kids only"
Easiest to train
Similar
Chihuahua: "Moderate"Maltese: "Moderate"
Lower shedding
Maltese
Chihuahua: "Low-Moderate"Maltese: "Low"
Lower grooming burden
Chihuahua
Chihuahua: "Low"Maltese: "High"
More active households
Chihuahua
Chihuahua: "Moderate"Maltese: "Low-Moderate"
Verdicts are based on trait ratings. Always evaluate individual dogs and confirm behaviour with the shelter, foster, or rescue organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Chihuahua or Maltese better for apartments?
Chihuahua is rated "Yes" for apartment living, while Maltese is rated "Yes". Consider your building's space and noise policies when choosing.
Which breed sheds more, Chihuahua or Maltese?
Chihuahua has low-moderate shedding. Maltese has low shedding.
Are Chihuahuas or Malteses easier to train?
Chihuahua trainability is rated "Moderate" and Maltese is rated "Moderate". Both breeds respond best to early, consistent positive-reinforcement training.
Which needs more exercise, a Chihuahua or a Maltese?
A Chihuahua typically needs 20–30 min/day, while a Maltese needs 20–30 min/day. Actual needs vary by individual dog, age, and health.
Which is better with kids, a Chihuahua or a Maltese?
Chihuahua is rated "Older kids only" with children (small size makes them vulnerable to rough handling; best with calm, older children); Maltese is rated "Older kids only" (small size makes them vulnerable to rough handling; best with calm, older children). Supervision and early socialisation are recommended for any breed around young children.
How much grooming does a Chihuahua need compared to a Maltese?
Chihuahua requires low grooming, while Maltese needs high grooming.