Maltese vs Keeshond Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Maltese Dog or Kees?
Compare the Maltese and Keeshond breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Maltese Dog or a Kees? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you
Other names
Maltese lion dog, Maltese Dog
Chien Loup, Smiling Dutchman, Wolfsspitz, Kees, Dutch Barge Dog, Deutscher Wolfsspitz, German Spitz
Weight
What is the average weight of Maltese and Keeshond?
5.5 pounds
( 2 kg )
37.5 pounds
( 17 kg )
Height
What is the average height of Maltese and Keeshond
9.5 inches
( 24.1 cm )
18.0 inches
( 45.7 cm )
Weight Gain Potential
Which breed eats more: Maltese or Keeshond?
Maltese has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.
Keeshond has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.
Hypoallergenic
Are Malteses or Keeshonds hypoallergenic, or neither?
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.
No
Unfortunately, the Keeshond is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.
Temperament
What are the personalities of Maltese and Keeshond dogs?
Active Easygoing Intelligent Responsive Docile Gentle Playful Sweet Tempered
When were Maltese and Keeshond breeds first developed?
ancient times
1700s
Breed Group
What is the Breed Group of Maltese and Keeshond?
Toy (AKC:1888) Companion Breed & Show Breed (UKC)
Non Sporting (AKC:1930) Northern Breeds (UKC)
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of Maltese and Keeshond dogs?
Brown
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of Maltese and Keeshond?
Black
Coat Color Possibilites
What are the natural colors of the coat for Maltese and Keeshond breeds?
White
Black Gray Fawn Silver White Sable Brindle
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for Maltese and Keeshond breeds?
Malteses are known for their coat length.
Keeshonds have longer coats compared to most dogs.
Coat Density
What is the density of the coat of Maltese and Keeshond?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of Maltese and Keeshond?
Straight
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for Maltese and Keeshond?
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.
12-14 puppies per pregnancy
A Keeshond can have a litter of 12-14 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
Maltese and Keeshonds 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 Maltese and Keeshond, which breed is more prone to health problems?
Maltese and Keeshond 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 Maltese and Keeshond breeds?
Patent Ductus Arteriosus Obesity
Renal Cortical Hypoplasia Hip Dysplasia Mitral Valve Disease Heart Disease
Minor Concerns
What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Maltese and Keeshond?
Mono/Bilateral Cryptorchidism Hydrocephalus Dental Disease Portosystemic Shunt Shaker Dog Syndrome
Cardiac Eye Hip X-Rays Eye Examination Physical Examination
Energy
How do the energy levels of Malteses and Keeshonds compare?
Malteses are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.
Keeshonds' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.
Social Needs
Maltese vs Keeshond social needs comparison
Maltese has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.
Keeshond has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.
Exercise Needed
Maltese vs Keeshond exercise need comparison.
Malteses require minimal physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.
Keeshonds need only a small amount of physical activity, ideal for busy or elderly people or those with limited space.
Sleeping Need
Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Maltese or Keeshond?
Malteses have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.
Keeshonds sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more/less, Maltese or Keeshond?
The Maltese and Keeshond 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 Malteses or Keeshonds bark more/less frequently?
Maltese and Keeshond dogs bark and howl frequently, they are not a good fit for quiet homes.
Territorial
Is the Maltese or Keeshond a better guard dog?
Maltese dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.
While Keeshond dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.
Mouthiness
Mouthiness Comparison: Maltese vs Keeshond?
Roaming urge
Maltese vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
Maltese or Keeshond - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Past times
What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Maltese and Keeshond entertained?
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
Which breed has higher energy, Malteses or Keeshonds?
Medium
Both Maltese and Keeshond 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 Maltese or Keeshond walk each week?
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.
8 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Keeshond, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
Activity per Day
Do Malteses or Keeshonds require more exercise?
60 minutes
Both Maltese and Keeshond 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, Malteses or Keeshonds?
The Maltese requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.
Keeshonds require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.
Brushing Frequency
What is the recommended brushing frequency for Maltese and Keeshond dogs?
Daily
Ideally, both Maltese and Keeshond should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) to improve shedding.
Brushing Tools
What brushing tools are used for Malteses and Keeshonds?
Pin Brush Dematter Comb Nail Clipper
Pin Brush Slicker Brush Comb Nail Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to Maltese or Keeshond in cups?
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.
2.5 cups
For an average 35-45 pound (16 - 20 kg) Keeshond feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.
Daily Cost
Which breed has a higher daily cost, Maltese or Keeshond?
$1.40 - $1.80 / day
The average cost of a Maltese is somewhere $1.40 - $1.80 per day.
$2.50 - $3.20 / day
The average cost of a Keeshond is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.
Monthly Cost
Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Maltese or Keeshond?
$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.
$84 - $95 / month
The average per month expenses of a Keeshond is between $84 - $95. This makes an average of $1008 - $1140 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: Malteses vs Keeshonds
Maltese has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.
Keeshond is a very intelligent and trainable breed.
Sensitivity Level
How do Maltese and Keeshond compare in sensitivity?
This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.
This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.
Affection Dependance
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Maltese vs Keeshond?
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Maltese or Keeshond?
Malteses make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.
Keeshonds are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.
Child Friendly
Do Malteses or Keeshonds have a friendlier temperament towards children?
Maltese and Keeshond 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 - Maltese or Keeshond?
Cat Friendly
Do Maltese or Keeshond breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
Malteses are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.
Keeshonds are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.
Dog Friendly
Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Maltese or Keeshond?
Malteses are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.
Keeshonds are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.
Pet friendly
How do Maltese or Keeshond dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Maltese or Keeshond?
Maltese and Keeshond are known to be very friendly around strangers.
Playfulness
Which breed is more playful between Maltese and Keeshond?
Maltese and Keeshond 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 Malteses and Keeshonds compare?
Maltese and Keeshond dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.
