Swedish Vallhund vs. Maltese: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Swedish Vallhund or Maltese?

4 / 5

Swedish Vallhund has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

3 / 5

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

Hypoallergenic

Are Swedish Vallhunds or Malteses hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the Swedish Vallhund is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Malteses are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Swedish Vallhund and Maltese dogs?

Alert
Fearless
Watchful
Energetic
Friendly

Active
Easygoing
Intelligent
Responsive
Docile
Gentle
Playful
Sweet
Tempered

Shedding Level

Do Swedish Vallhunds shed more than Malteses, or which breed sheds more, Swedish Vallhunds or Malteses?

5 / 5

Swedish Vallhunds shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

1 / 5

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

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Swedish Vallhund or Maltese?

4 / 5

Swedish Vallhunds make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

3 / 5

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

Origin

What is the origin of Swedish Vallhund and Maltese dog breeds?

Sweden

Malta

Ancestry

What are the origins of Swedish Vallhund and Maltese breeds?

Spitz, Corgi

terrier

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Swedish Vallhund and Maltese?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Kennel Club of Great Britain
New Zealand Kennel Club
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.

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

Date of Birth

When were Swedish Vallhund and Maltese breeds first developed?

Ancient Times

ancient times

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Swedish Vallhund and Maltese?

Herding (AKC:2007 & UKC)

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

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Swedish Vallhund and Maltese dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Swedish Vallhund and Maltese?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Swedish Vallhund and Maltese breeds?

Sable
Red
Gray

White

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Swedish Vallhund and Maltese breeds?

2 / 5

Swedish Vallhunds have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

5 / 5

Malteses are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Swedish Vallhund and Maltese?

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Swedish Vallhund and Maltese?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Swedish Vallhund and Maltese?

A Swedish Vallhund can have a litter of 12-14 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.

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.

Adaptability

5 / 5

Swedish Vallhund and Malteses are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Swedish Vallhund and Maltese, which breed is more prone to health problems?

2 / 5

Swedish Vallhunds are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

3 / 5

While the Maltese breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Swedish Vallhund and Maltese breeds?

Retinopathy

Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Obesity

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Swedish Vallhund and Maltese?

Hip Dysplasia

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

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Swedish Vallhund and Maltese breeds?

Eye
Hips
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Full Physical Examination

Eye
Knee
Liver Ultrasound
CT Scan
Dental Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Swedish Vallhunds and Malteses compare?

5 / 5

Swedish Vallhunds thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

3 / 5

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

Social Needs

Swedish Vallhund vs Maltese social needs comparison

4 / 5

Swedish Vallhund has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

5 / 5

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

Exercise Needed

Swedish Vallhund vs Maltese exercise need comparison.

4 / 5

Swedish Vallhunds require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

1 / 5

Malteses require minimal physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Swedish Vallhund or Maltese?

1 / 5

Swedish Vallhunds are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

3 / 5

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

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Swedish Vallhund or Maltese?

1 / 5

The Swedish Vallhund and Maltese 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 Swedish Vallhunds or Malteses bark more/less frequently?

4 / 5

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

5 / 5

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

Territorial

Is the Swedish Vallhund or Maltese a better guard dog?

2 / 5

Swedish Vallhund dogs may not be the best choice as guard dogs because they do not have a strong instinct to defend their territory.

4 / 5

Maltese dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Swedish Vallhund vs Maltese?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Roaming urge

Swedish Vallhund vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

1 / 5

Prey Drive

Swedish Vallhund or Maltese - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Swedish Vallhund and Maltese entertained?

Fetch, Swim

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

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Swedish Vallhunds or Malteses?

Both Swedish Vallhund and Maltese are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

2 / 5

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Swedish Vallhund or Maltese walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Swedish Vallhund, it's at least 8 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 Maltese, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Swedish Vallhunds or Malteses require more exercise?

In general most Swedish Vallhunds usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Malteses usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Swedish Vallhunds or Malteses?

3 / 5

Swedish Vallhund and Maltese are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Swedish Vallhund and Maltese dogs?

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

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Swedish Vallhunds and Malteses?

Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Swedish Vallhund or Maltese in cups?

For an average 20-35 pound (9 - 16 kg) Swedish Vallhund 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.

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.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Swedish Vallhund or Maltese?

The average cost of a Swedish Vallhund is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

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

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Swedish Vallhund or Maltese?

The average per month expenses of a Swedish Vallhund is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 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 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.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Swedish Vallhunds vs Malteses

2 / 5

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

Sensitivity Level

How do Swedish Vallhund and Maltese compare in sensitivity?

3 / 5

Swedish Vallhunds have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

4 / 5

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

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Swedish Vallhund vs Maltese?

5 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Swedish Vallhund or Maltese?

3 / 5

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

5 / 5

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

Child Friendly

Do Swedish Vallhunds or Malteses have a friendlier temperament towards children?

5 / 5

Swedish Vallhunds make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

4 / 5

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

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Swedish Vallhund or Maltese?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Swedish Vallhund or Maltese breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

5 / 5

Swedish Vallhunds and Malteses are very cat friendly dogs. They generally make good companions for cats.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Swedish Vallhund or Maltese?

3 / 5

Swedish Vallhunds are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

5 / 5

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

Pet friendly

How do Swedish Vallhund or Maltese dogs interact with other pets?

5 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Swedish Vallhund or Maltese?

5 / 5

Swedish Vallhund and Maltese are known to be very friendly around strangers.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Swedish Vallhund and Maltese?

3 / 5

Swedish Vallhund and Maltese have an average level of playfulness. Like other dogs, they enjoy playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Swedish Vallhunds and Malteses compare?

3 / 5

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