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Pug Shiba vs Highland Maltie Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Shiba Pug or Highland Maltie?

Compare the Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Shiba Pug or a Highland Maltie? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Shiba Pug

Weight

What is the average weight of Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie?
12.5 pounds ( 6 kg )
13.5 pounds ( 6 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie
10.0 inches ( 25.4 cm )
11.0 inches ( 27.9 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Pug Shibas or Highland Malties hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, the Pug Shiba 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, Highland Malties are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie dogs?
Playful
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Affectionate
Loyal
Gentle
Going
Fearless
Keen
Cheerful
Faithful
Charming

Active
Playful
Independent
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Responsive
Docile
Affectionate
Gentle
Tempered
Sweet
Easygoing

Shedding Level

Do Pug Shibas shed more than Highland Malties, or which breed sheds more, Pug Shibas or Highland Malties?

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

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

Ancestry

What are the origins of Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie breeds?
Pug and Shiba Inu mix

Maltese, West Highland White Terrier (Westie)

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie?
ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DBR = Designer Breed Registry
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

Date of Birth

When were Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie breeds first developed?
Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie dogs?
Hazel

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie?
Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie breeds?
Brown
Fawn
Pied

White

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie breeds?

Pug Shibas have short coats.

Highland Malties are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie?
Straight

Wavy

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie?

2-4 puppies per pregnancy

A Pug Shiba can have a litter of 2-4 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.

3-5 puppies per pregnancy

A Highland Maltie can have a litter of 3-5 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

Pug Shiba and Highland Malties 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 Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie, which breed is more prone to health problems?

The Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie breeds are commonly healthy with low vet costs, regular check-ups may not be as necessary but it's important to keep an eye on their health and have them checked by a veterinarian when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie breeds?
Patellar Luxation
Hip Dysplasia
Epilepsy
Hemivertebrae
Hypothyroidism
Cancer
Corneal Ulcer
Pug Dog Encephalitis
Legg-Calve Perthes Disease
Canine Glaucoma

Patellar Luxation
Cataract
Legg-Calve Perthes Disease

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie?
Allergies
Dry Eye

Ear Health and Infection
Eye Infections

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie breeds?
Full Body Physical Examination

X-Rays
Eye Examinations
Urinalysis
Blood Tests
Full Physical Examination
Ear Tests and Myringotomy Tests

Social Needs

Pug Shiba vs Highland Maltie social needs comparison

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

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

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Pug Shiba or Highland Maltie?

Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie breeds are known to have moderate energy levels and normal sleep patterns, typically sleeping around 12-14 hours per day.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Pug Shiba vs Highland Maltie?

Roaming urge

Pug Shiba vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Pug Shiba or Highland Maltie - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie entertained?
Fetch, Playing Ball, Seeking, Training, Relax, Walks

Dog Parks, Play, Fetch, Walk, Snuggle

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Pug Shibas or Highland Malties?

Medium

Both Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie 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 Pug Shiba or Highland Maltie walk each week?

5 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Pug Shiba, it's at least 5 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 Highland Maltie, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Pug Shibas or Highland Malties require more exercise?

45 minutes

In general most Pug Shibas usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

60 minutes

In general most Highland Malties 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.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Pug Shibas or Highland Malties?

The Pug Shiba has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

Highland Malties 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 Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie dogs?

Weekly

Pug Shiba 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, Highland Maltie should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Pug Shibas and Highland Malties?
Pin Brush
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Pug Shiba or Highland Maltie in cups?

2 cups

For an average 14-18 pound (6 - 8 kg) Pug Shiba 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.

1 cups

For an average 11-16 pound (5 - 7 kg) Highland Maltie 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, Pug Shiba or Highland Maltie?

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

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

$1.10 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a Highland Maltie is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Pug Shiba or Highland Maltie?

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a Pug Shiba 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.

$35 - $45 / month

The average per month expenses of a Highland Maltie is between $35 - $45. This makes an average of $420 - $540 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 Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie compare in sensitivity?

Pug Shibas have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Pug Shiba or Highland Maltie?

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

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

Child Friendly

Do Pug Shibas or Highland Malties have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie 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 - Pug Shiba or Highland Maltie?

Cat Friendly

Do Pug Shiba or Highland Maltie breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Pug Shibas and Highland Malties are one of the best dogs for cats. They accept cats readily as part of the family. However, this dog breed should be trained to not chase after the kitty early on

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Pug Shiba or Highland Maltie?

Pug Shibas are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

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

Pet friendly

How do Pug Shiba or Highland Maltie dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Pug Shiba or Highland Maltie?

Pug Shibas are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Highland Malties are highly friendly around strangers.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Pug Shiba and Highland Maltie?

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

Highland Malties are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Pug Shibas and Highland Malties compare?

Pug Shibas may require more time and patience to learn commands, but with consistency, they can be trained.

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

Common match-ups