Italian Greyhound vs Maltese Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Spanish: Galgo Italiano or Maltese Dog?
Compare the Italian Greyhound and Maltese breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Spanish: Galgo Italiano or a Maltese Dog? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you
Other names
Spanish: Galgo Italiano, German: Italienisches Windspiel, Italian: Piccolo Levriero Italiano, French: Petit Levrier Italiane
Maltese lion dog, Maltese Dog
Weight
What is the average weight of Italian Greyhound and Maltese?
10.5 pounds
( 5 kg )
5.5 pounds
( 2 kg )
Height
What is the average height of Italian Greyhound and Maltese
14.0 inches
( 35.6 cm )
9.5 inches
( 24.1 cm )
Weight Gain Potential
Which breed eats more: Italian Greyhound or Maltese?
Italian Greyhound has average obesity risk, needs balanced diet, daily walks, and weight monitoring.
Maltese has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.
Hypoallergenic
Are Italian Greyhounds or Malteses hypoallergenic, or neither?
Yes
Both Italian Greyhound and Maltese are hypoallergenic dogs, which make them ideal pets for people who are allergic to pets. Although no dogs are completely hypoallergenic, these breeds come very close and are great choices for those who suffer from pet allergies.
Temperament
What are the personalities of Italian Greyhound and Maltese dogs?
Active Easygoing Intelligent Responsive Docile Gentle Playful Sweet Tempered
Shedding Level
Do Italian Greyhounds shed more than Malteses, or which breed sheds more, Italian Greyhounds or Malteses?
Italian Greyhound or Maltese will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.
Watchdog Ability
Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Italian Greyhound or Maltese?
The Italian Greyhound and Maltese dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, these breeds will alert their owner.
Origin
What is the origin of Italian Greyhound and Maltese dog breeds?
Italy
Malta
Ancestry
What are the origins of Italian Greyhound and Maltese breeds?
Sighthound
terrier
Breed recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize/register Italian Greyhound 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 Italian Greyhound and Maltese breeds first developed?
Ancient Times
ancient times
Breed Group
What is the Breed Group of Italian Greyhound and Maltese?
Toy (AKC:1886) Companion Breeds (UKC)
Toy (AKC:1888) Companion Breed & Show Breed (UKC)
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of Italian Greyhound and Maltese dogs?
Brown
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of Italian Greyhound and Maltese?
Black Brown
Black
Coat Color Possibilites
What are the natural colors of the coat for Italian Greyhound and Maltese breeds?
Red Gray Black Brindle Sable Pied White Blue Fawn Cream
White
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for Italian Greyhound and Maltese breeds?
Italian Greyhounds have short coats.
Malteses are known for their coat length.
Coat Density
What is the density of the coat of Italian Greyhound and Maltese?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of Italian Greyhound and Maltese?
Straight
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for Italian Greyhound and Maltese?
12-15 puppies per pregnancy
An Italian Greyhound can have a litter of 12-15 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
Italian Greyhound 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 Italian Greyhound and Maltese, which breed is more prone to health problems?
Italian Greyhound and Maltese breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.
Major Concerns
What are the major health concerns for Italian Greyhound and Maltese breeds?
Periodontal Disease
Patent Ductus Arteriosus Obesity
Minor Concerns
What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Italian Greyhound and Maltese?
Patellar Luxation Progressive Retinal Atrophy Epilepsy Leg Fractures
Mono/Bilateral Cryptorchidism Hydrocephalus Dental Disease Portosystemic Shunt Shaker Dog Syndrome
Occasional Tests
What occasional tests are recommended for Italian Greyhound and Maltese breeds?
How do the energy levels of Italian Greyhounds and Malteses compare?
Italian Greyhounds' 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
Italian Greyhound vs Maltese social needs comparison
Italian Greyhound has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.
Maltese has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.
Exercise Needed
Italian Greyhound vs Maltese exercise need comparison.
Italian Greyhounds 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: Italian Greyhound or Maltese?
Italian Greyhounds sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.
Malteses have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more/less, Italian Greyhound or Maltese?
The Italian Greyhound 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 Italian Greyhounds or Malteses bark more/less frequently?
Italian Greyhounds bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.
Maltese dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.
Territorial
Is the Italian Greyhound 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: Italian Greyhound vs Maltese?
Roaming urge
Italian Greyhound vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
Italian Greyhound or Maltese - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Past times
What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Italian Greyhound and Maltese entertained?
Cuddling, Dog Parks, Snuggling, Walk, Run, Frisbee, Fetch, Nose work, Eating Snacks, Running, Racing, Nervous, Going on drives, Growling, Biting
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, Italian Greyhounds or Malteses?
Medium
Both Italian Greyhound 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 Italian Greyhound or Maltese walk each week?
6 miles / week
Italian Greyhound and Maltese generally need a minimum of 6 miles of walking per week, but it can be increased as long as they are comfortable with it.
Activity per Day
Do Italian Greyhounds or Malteses require more exercise?
60 minutes
Both Italian Greyhound 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, Italian Greyhounds or Malteses?
The Italian Greyhound is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.
The Maltese requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.
Brushing Frequency
What is the recommended brushing frequency for Italian Greyhound and Maltese dogs?
Weekly
Italian Greyhound 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 Italian Greyhounds and Malteses?
Slicker Brush Nail Clipper
Pin Brush Dematter Comb Nail Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to Italian Greyhound or Maltese in cups?
1.3 cups
For an average 7-14 pound (3 - 6 kg) Italian Greyhound feed 1.3 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, Italian Greyhound or Maltese?
$1.40 - $1.70 / day
The average cost of an Italian Greyhound is somewhere $1.40 - $1.70 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, Italian Greyhound or Maltese?
$42 - $53 / month
When it comes to monthly expenses, both Italian Greyhound and Maltese have a similar average cost, ranging from $42 - $53. This results in an average yearly cost of around $504 - $636.
Intelligence
Comparing Intelligence: Italian Greyhounds vs Malteses
Italian Greyhound and Maltese have below-average obedience intelligence compared to other breeds. However, calling them "dumb dogs" is unjust. While Italian Greyhound and Maltese lack obedience and working intelligence, they compensate for it with their remarkable ability to comprehend human emotions.
Sensitivity Level
How do Italian Greyhound and Maltese compare in sensitivity?
This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.
This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.
Affection Dependance
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Italian Greyhound vs Maltese?
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Italian Greyhound or Maltese?
Italian Greyhounds are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.
Malteses make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.
Child Friendly
Do Italian Greyhounds or Malteses have a friendlier temperament towards children?
Italian Greyhounds are not suitable for children.
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 - Italian Greyhound or Maltese?
Cat Friendly
Do Italian Greyhound or Maltese breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
Italian Greyhounds are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.
Malteses are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.
Dog Friendly
Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Italian Greyhound or Maltese?
Italian Greyhounds 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 Italian Greyhound or Maltese dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Italian Greyhound or Maltese?
Italian Greyhounds are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.
Malteses are highly friendly around strangers.
Playfulness
Which breed is more playful between Italian Greyhound and Maltese?
Italian Greyhound 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 Italian Greyhounds and Malteses compare?
Italian Greyhound and Maltese dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.
