Maltese vs Shetinese Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Maltese Dog or Shetinese?

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

Differences only

Other names

Maltese lion dog, Maltese Dog

Weight

What is the average weight of Maltese and Shetinese?

5.5 pounds ( 2 kg )

17.5 pounds ( 8 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Maltese and Shetinese

9.5 inches ( 24.1 cm )

11.0 inches ( 27.9 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Malteses or Shetineses 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.

Unfortunately, the Shetinese 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 Shetinese dogs?

Active
Easygoing
Intelligent
Responsive
Docile
Gentle
Playful
Sweet
Tempered

Playful
Stubborn
Intelligent
Friendly
Responsive
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Aggressive
Good-natured
Opinionated

Shedding Level

Do Malteses shed more than Shetineses, or which breed sheds more, Malteses or Shetineses?

Malteses shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Shetineses are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Origin

What is the origin of Maltese and Shetinese dog breeds?

Malta

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Maltese and Shetinese breeds?

terrier

Shetland Sheepdog and Pekingese

Date of Birth

When were Maltese and Shetinese breeds first developed?

ancient times

2000's

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Maltese and Shetinese dogs?

Brown

Blue
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Maltese and Shetinese?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

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

White

Black
Gray
Brown
White
Blue
Sable
Red

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Maltese and Shetinese breeds?

Malteses are known for their coat length.

Shetineses have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Maltese and Shetinese?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Maltese and Shetinese?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Maltese and Shetinese?

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.

4-6 puppies per pregnancy

A Shetinese can have a litter of 4-6 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 Shetineses 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 Shetinese, which breed is more prone to health problems?

While the Maltese breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

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

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Maltese and Shetinese breeds?

Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Obesity

Patellar Luxation
Deafness
Dermatomyositis
Von Willebrand's Disease
Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)
Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
Ulcerative Dermatosis

Minor Concerns

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

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

Cataracts
Mono/Bilateral Cryptorchidism
Hydrocephalus
Eyelid Defects
Color Dilution Alopecia
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye)
Mitral Valve Dysplasia

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Maltese and Shetinese breeds?

Eye
Knee
Liver Ultrasound
CT Scan
Dental Examination
Physical Examination

Brain Auditory Evoked Response (BAER)
Internal Imaging (x-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)
Blood And Urine Analysis
Ear Tests and Myringotomy Tests
Blood Sugar and Thyroid Tests
Yearly Physical Examination
Full Chemistry Panel Tests and Blood Count
Various Blood Testing Modalities
Eye Examinations (both internal as well as external)
X-rays of various parts of the skeletal system
Echocardiography (ultrasound)

Social Needs

Maltese vs Shetinese social needs comparison

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

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

Sleeping Need

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

Maltese and Shetinese breeds are known to have moderate energy levels and normal sleep patterns, typically sleeping around 12-14 hours per day.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Maltese vs Shetinese?

Roaming urge

Maltese vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

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

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Malteses or Shetineses?

Medium

Malteses are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

High

Shetineses are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Maltese or Shetinese 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.

10 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Shetinese, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Malteses or Shetineses require more exercise?

60 minutes

In general most Malteses usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

120 minutes

In general most Shetineses usually need at least 120 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

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

The Maltese requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Shetineses have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Maltese and Shetinese dogs?

Daily

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

Weekly

Shetinese 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

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Malteses and Shetineses?

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Dematter
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Maltese or Shetinese 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 cups

For an average 11-24 pound (5 - 11 kg) Shetinese feed 2 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 Shetinese?

$1.40 - $1.80 / day

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

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

The average cost of a Shetinese is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Maltese or Shetinese?

$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.

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a Shetinese is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 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.

Sensitivity Level

How do Maltese and Shetinese compare in sensitivity?

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

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Maltese or Shetinese?

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

The Shetinese is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

Do Malteses or Shetineses have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Malteses are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Shetineses have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Senior-friendly

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

Cat Friendly

Do Maltese or Shetinese breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Malteses and Shetineses are very cat friendly dogs. They generally make good companions for cats.

Dog Friendly

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

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

Shetineses 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 Shetinese dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Maltese or Shetinese?

Malteses are highly friendly around strangers.

Shetineses are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Maltese and Shetinese?

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

Shetineses are not known for being a highly playful breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Malteses and Shetineses compare?

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

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