Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier
Side-by-side comparison of Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier: energy, shedding, trainability, apartment fit, and more.
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Stats at a Glance
| Trait | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Small |
| Energy | Low-Moderate | Moderate |
| Shedding | Low | Low-Moderate |
| Grooming | High | 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 | Depends |
| Good With Dogs | Often, with socializationSocialization from an early age improves relations with other dogs | Depends |
| Daily Exercise | 20–30 min/day | 20–40 min/day |
| Origin | Malta | — |
Quick Verdict
Best for apartments
Similar
Maltese: "Yes"Yorkshire Terrier: "Yes"
Best with kids
Yorkshire Terrier
Maltese: "Older kids only"Yorkshire Terrier: "Depends"
Easiest to train
Similar
Maltese: "Moderate"Yorkshire Terrier: "Moderate"
Lower shedding
Maltese
Maltese: "Low"Yorkshire Terrier: "Low-Moderate"
Lower grooming burden
Similar
Maltese: "High"Yorkshire Terrier: "High"
More active households
Yorkshire Terrier
Maltese: "Low-Moderate"Yorkshire Terrier: "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 Maltese or Yorkshire Terrier better for apartments?
Maltese is rated "Yes" for apartment living, while Yorkshire Terrier is rated "Yes". Consider your building's space and noise policies when choosing.
Which breed sheds more, Maltese or Yorkshire Terrier?
Maltese has low shedding. Yorkshire Terrier has low-moderate shedding.
Are Malteses or Yorkshire Terriers easier to train?
Maltese trainability is rated "Moderate" and Yorkshire Terrier is rated "Moderate". Both breeds respond best to early, consistent positive-reinforcement training.
Which needs more exercise, a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier?
A Maltese typically needs 20–30 min/day, while a Yorkshire Terrier needs 20–40 min/day. Actual needs vary by individual dog, age, and health.
Which is better with kids, a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier?
Maltese is rated "Older kids only" with children (small size makes them vulnerable to rough handling; best with calm, older children); Yorkshire Terrier is rated "Depends". Supervision and early socialisation are recommended for any breed around young children.
How much grooming does a Maltese need compared to a Yorkshire Terrier?
Maltese requires high grooming, while Yorkshire Terrier needs high grooming.