Maltese vs Pug
Side-by-side comparison for prospective owners weighing both breeds.
| Trait | Maltese | Pug |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 4–7 lbs | 14–18 lbs |
| Lifespan | 12–15 yrs | 13–15 yrs |
| Est. monthly cost | $70–$130 | $80–$140 |
| Energy level | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Good with kids | ||
| Good with other pets | ||
| Vocalization |
Where Maltese and Pug differ most
- Adult weight: Maltese 4–7 lbs · Pug 14–18 lbsPug much heavier
- Grooming needs: Maltese 5/5 · Pug 2/5Maltese much more upkeep
- Shedding: Maltese 1/5 · Pug 4/5Pug much sheds more
- Energy level: Maltese 3/5 · Pug 2/5Maltese higher-energy
- Good with kids: Maltese 3/5 · Pug 5/5Pug rated higher
- Good with other pets: Maltese 3/5 · Pug 4/5Pug rated higher
Full trait-by-trait breakdown
| Trait | Maltese | Pug | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult weight | 4–7 lbs | 14–18 lbs | Pug much heavier |
| Energy level | 3/5 | 2/5 | Maltese higher-energy |
| Daily exercise | ~30 min | ~30 min | About the same |
| Grooming needs | 5/5 | 2/5 | Maltese much more upkeep |
| Shedding | 1/5 | 4/5 | Pug much sheds more |
| Trainability | 3/5 | 3/5 | About the same |
| Good with kids | 3/5 | 5/5 | Pug rated higher |
| Good with other pets | 3/5 | 4/5 | Pug rated higher |
| Vocalization | 4/5 | 2/5 | Maltese more vocal |
| Lifespan | 12–15 yrs | 13–15 yrs | About the same |
| Est. monthly cost | $70–130 | $80–140 | About the same |
| Hypoallergenic reality | Lower-shedding (not hypoallergenic) | No | Differs — see profiles |
Which one should you choose?
Heat and breathing management are simply part of owning a flat-faced dog like the Pug, a consideration the Maltese doesn't carry, though the Pug is sturdier and generally more food-motivated and easygoing, while the Maltese demands more consistent grooming attention to keep its coat pristine. Both do well in small spaces with modest exercise needs. The Pug's short coat sheds but needs less daily styling than the Maltese's long one. Warmer climates or households wanting to avoid managing brachycephalic health concerns should lean Maltese; those drawn to the Pug's comedic, sturdy charm are better matched with the Pug. Both breeds adapt readily to smaller living spaces and a modest daily routine, though the Pug's warm-weather limitations deserve real planning around walk timing and reliable air conditioning access. The Maltese tolerates a wider range of climates comfortably, provided its coat receives the daily attention it genuinely needs.
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.