Chihuahua vs Maltese
Side-by-side comparison for prospective owners weighing both breeds.
| Trait | Chihuahua | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 2–6 lbs | 4–7 lbs |
| Lifespan | 14–16 yrs | 12–15 yrs |
| Est. monthly cost | $50–$100 | $70–$130 |
| Energy level | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Good with kids | ||
| Good with other pets | ||
| Vocalization |
Where Chihuahua and Maltese differ most
- Grooming needs: Chihuahua 1/5 · Maltese 5/5Maltese much more upkeep
- Est. monthly cost: Chihuahua $50–100 · Maltese $70–130Maltese much costlier
- Adult weight: Chihuahua 2–6 lbs · Maltese 4–7 lbsMaltese heavier
- Daily exercise: Chihuahua ~20 min · Maltese ~30 minMaltese needs more
- Shedding: Chihuahua 2/5 · Maltese 1/5Chihuahua sheds more
- Good with kids: Chihuahua 2/5 · Maltese 3/5Maltese rated higher
Full trait-by-trait breakdown
| Trait | Chihuahua | Maltese | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult weight | 2–6 lbs | 4–7 lbs | Maltese heavier |
| Energy level | 3/5 | 3/5 | About the same |
| Daily exercise | ~20 min | ~30 min | Maltese needs more |
| Grooming needs | 1/5 | 5/5 | Maltese much more upkeep |
| Shedding | 2/5 | 1/5 | Chihuahua sheds more |
| Trainability | 3/5 | 3/5 | About the same |
| Good with kids | 2/5 | 3/5 | Maltese rated higher |
| Good with other pets | 2/5 | 3/5 | Maltese rated higher |
| Vocalization | 5/5 | 4/5 | Chihuahua more vocal |
| Lifespan | 14–16 yrs | 12–15 yrs | About the same |
| Est. monthly cost | $50–100 | $70–130 | Maltese much costlier |
| Hypoallergenic reality | No | Lower-shedding (not hypoallergenic) | Differs — see profiles |
Which one should you choose?
The Maltese carries an old lapdog lineage bred for nothing but companionship, and it tends to be a touch more even-tempered and adaptable across a household than the more one-person-devoted Chihuahua. Both are tiny, portable, and content with modest daily exercise, but their coats couldn't be more different to live with: the Maltese's long, silky coat demands regular brushing and professional grooming to avoid matting, while the Chihuahua's coat is essentially no-maintenance. The Chihuahua also tends to be the more vocal, alert watchdog of the two, quick to sound off at anything unfamiliar, and it can be less forgiving of rough handling from young children than the gentler Maltese. Training goes reasonably well for both with a patient, consistent approach, though neither is the most food-driven learner. Choose the Maltese if you want a slightly more social, plush-coated companion and don't mind the grooming; choose the Chihuahua for a fiercely loyal, low-upkeep-coat dog.
Whichever breed fits your life, consider adoption or breed-specific rescue first — many purebred and mixed-breed dogs and cats are already waiting for homes.
General breed information, not veterinary advice — consult a vet for your pet's specific health, diet, and behavior needs.