Great Pyrenees vs Maltese Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Patou or Maltese lion dog?

Compare the Great Pyrenees and Maltese breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Patou or a Maltese lion dog? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

Montañés Del Pirineo, Great Pyrenees, Patou, Chien De Montagne Des Pyrénées, Gos De Muntanya Dels Pirineus, Chien Des Pyrénées

Maltese lion dog, Maltese Dog

Weight

What is the average weight of Great Pyrenees and Maltese?

130.0 pounds ( 59 kg )

5.5 pounds ( 2 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Great Pyrenees and Maltese

29.5 inches ( 74.9 cm )

9.5 inches ( 24.1 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Great Pyrenees or Maltese?

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

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

Hypoallergenic

Are Great Pyreneess or Malteses hypoallergenic, or neither?

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

Yes

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 Great Pyrenees and Maltese dogs?

Affectionate
Fearless
Patient
Confident
Gentle
Strong
Willed

Active
Easygoing
Intelligent
Responsive
Docile
Gentle
Playful
Sweet
Tempered

Shedding Level

Do Great Pyreneess shed more than Malteses, or which breed sheds more, Great Pyreneess or Malteses?

Great Pyreneess are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

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 Great Pyrenees or Maltese?

Choose a Great Pyrenees if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

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

Origin

What is the origin of Great Pyrenees and Maltese dog breeds?

Asia

Malta

Ancestry

What are the origins of Great Pyrenees and Maltese breeds?

Hungarian Kuvasz, Maremmano-Abruzzese

terrier

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Great Pyrenees and Maltese?

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 Great Pyrenees and Maltese breeds first developed?

Ancient Times

ancient times

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Great Pyrenees and Maltese?

Working (AKC:1933)
Guardian Dogs (UKC)

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

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Great Pyrenees and Maltese dogs?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Great Pyrenees and Maltese?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Great Pyrenees and Maltese breeds?

White
Cream

White

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Great Pyrenees and Maltese breeds?

Great Pyreneess have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Malteses are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Great Pyrenees and Maltese?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Great Pyrenees and Maltese?

Wavy

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Great Pyrenees and Maltese?

10-12 puppies per pregnancy

A Great Pyrenees can have a litter of 10-12 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.

15-18 puppies per pregnancy

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

Great Pyreneess are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Malteses are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Great Pyrenees and Maltese, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Great Pyreneess typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

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 Great Pyrenees and Maltese breeds?

Patellar Luxation
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia
Bloat
Addison's Disease

Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Obesity

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Great Pyrenees and Maltese?

Entropion
Cataracts

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

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Great Pyrenees and Maltese breeds?

Eye
Hip
Knee
Blood Test
X-Rays
Physical Examination

Eye
Knee
Liver Ultrasound
CT Scan
Dental Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Great Pyreneess and Malteses compare?

Great Pyreneess' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

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

Social Needs

Great Pyrenees vs Maltese social needs comparison

Great Pyrenees has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

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

Exercise Needed

Great Pyrenees vs Maltese exercise need comparison.

Great Pyreneess need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Malteses require minimal physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Great Pyrenees or Maltese?

Great Pyreneess are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

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

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Great Pyrenees or Maltese?

Great Pyrenees has low drooling tendency, suitable for those who dislike drool marks.

Maltese minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Great Pyreneess or Malteses bark more/less frequently?

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

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

Territorial

Is the Great Pyrenees or Maltese a better guard dog?

These breeds are known for their strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They will fiercely defend their territory and are highly alert and vigilant against any perceived threat to their home and family.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Great Pyrenees vs Maltese?

Roaming urge

Great Pyrenees vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Great Pyrenees or Maltese - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Great Pyrenees and Maltese entertained?

Sniff, Sit, Walk, Petting, Sniffing, Mouthing, Play, Being outside, People, Tug-of-war, Run, Walking, W, Hike, Going on drives, Car rides, Hiking, Tug of war, Hide and seek, Throw the ball

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, Great Pyreneess or Malteses?

Medium

Both Great Pyrenees 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

Walks per Week

How many miles should Great Pyrenees or Maltese walk each week?

12 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Great Pyrenees, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

6 miles / week

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 Great Pyreneess or Malteses require more exercise?

60 minutes

Both Great Pyrenees and Maltese typically require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Great Pyreneess or Malteses?

Great Pyrenees and Maltese are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Great Pyrenees and Maltese dogs?

Weekly

Great Pyrenees should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Daily

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

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Great Pyreneess and Malteses?

Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Great Pyrenees or Maltese in cups?

4.5 cups

For an average 100-140 pound (45 - 64 kg) Great Pyrenees feed 4.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

1 cups

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, Great Pyrenees or Maltese?

$4.20 - $4.90 / day

The average cost of a Great Pyrenees is somewhere $4.20 - $4.90 per day.

$1.40 - $1.80 / day

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

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Great Pyrenees or Maltese?

$126 - $147 / month

The average per month expenses of a Great Pyrenees is between $126 - $147. This makes an average of $1512 - $1764 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.

$42 - $53 / month

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: Great Pyreneess vs Malteses

Great Pyreneess are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Maltese has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do Great Pyrenees and Maltese compare in sensitivity?

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Great Pyrenees and Maltese need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Great Pyrenees vs Maltese?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Great Pyrenees or Maltese?

Great Pyreneess can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

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

Child Friendly

Do Great Pyreneess or Malteses have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Great Pyrenees and Maltese are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Great Pyrenees or Maltese?

Cat Friendly

Do Great Pyrenees or Maltese breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Great Pyreneess are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Malteses are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Great Pyrenees or Maltese?

Great Pyreneess are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

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

Pet friendly

How do Great Pyrenees or Maltese dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Great Pyrenees or Maltese?

Great Pyreneess are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Malteses are highly friendly around strangers.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Great Pyrenees and Maltese?

Great Pyreneess are not known for being a highly playful breed.

Malteses have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Great Pyreneess and Malteses compare?

Great Pyreneess are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

Malteses are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.