Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Maltese

Where Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Maltese differ most

• Adult weight: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 13–18 lbs · Maltese 4–7 lbsCavalier King Charles Spaniel much heavier
• Lifespan: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 9–14 yrs · Maltese 12–15 yrsMaltese much longer-lived
• Daily exercise: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel ~40 min · Maltese ~30 minCavalier King Charles Spaniel needs more
• Grooming needs: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 3/5 · Maltese 5/5Maltese more upkeep
• Shedding: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 3/5 · Maltese 1/5Cavalier King Charles Spaniel sheds more
• Trainability: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 4/5 · Maltese 3/5Cavalier King Charles Spaniel easier to train

Full trait-by-trait breakdown

Which one should you choose?

The Maltese is smaller still, with a pure white coat that demands serious daily grooming attention to stay clean and mat-free, more than the Cavalier's already-substantial coat care needs. The Cavalier tends to be the more even-tempered, adaptable of the two around kids and other pets, while the Maltese can be more delicate and better suited to a gentler, calmer household. Both are affectionate and content with modest exercise. Families wanting a sturdier, more forgiving temperament should lean Cavalier; those wanting the smallest possible companion, and willing to commit to daily coat-care attention, are better matched with the Maltese. Both breeds tend to struggle when left solo for a full day, benefiting from an owner who works from home or arranges midday company. Households with toddlers should still supervise handling closely regardless of which breed joins the family, given how compact and comparatively fragile both dogs are physically.