Golden Retriever vs Maltese
Side-by-side comparison
Choosing between Golden Retriever and Maltese depends on your specific needs and priorities.
When it comes to size, Golden Retriever offers Large compared to Maltese's Small. When it comes to weight, Golden Retriever offers 55-75 lbs compared to Maltese's 4-7 lbs. When it comes to height, Golden Retriever offers 21-24 inches compared to Maltese's 7-9 inches.
Below is a detailed side-by-side breakdown to help you make an informed decision between these two breeds.
| Golden Retriever | Attribute | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Large | Size | Small |
| 55-75 lbs | Weight | 4-7 lbs |
| 21-24 inches | Height | 7-9 inches |
| 10-12 years | Lifespan | 12-15 years |
IntelligentFriendlyDevoted | Temperament | GentlePlayfulCharming |
| Sporting | Group | Toy |
| Scotland | Origin | Malta |
Golden Retriever
Golden Retriever is a large Sporting breed from Scotland. Known for being intelligent, friendly, devoted. Has an average lifespan of 10-12 years and a weight range of 55-75 lbs.
Maltese
Maltese is a small Toy breed from Malta. Known for being gentle, playful, charming. Has an average lifespan of 12-15 years and a weight range of 4-7 lbs.
Key Differences
| Attribute | Golden Retriever | Maltese | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Small | Golden Retriever is the larger breed |
| Weight | 55-75 lbs | 4-7 lbs | Golden Retriever is heavier (approx. 1082% difference) |
| Height | 21-24" | 7-9" | Different heights (21-24" vs 7-9") |
| Life Span | 10-12 yrs | 12-15 yrs | Maltese tends to live longer (12-15 vs 10-12 years) |
| Breed Group | Sporting | Toy | Different groups: Sporting vs Toy |
| Origin | Scotland | Malta | Different origins: Scotland vs Malta |
| Temperament | Intelligent, Friendly, Devoted | Gentle, Playful, Charming | Different temperaments |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Golden Retriever bigger than a Maltese?
Golden Retriever is the larger breed. Golden Retriever weighs 55-75 lbs while Maltese weighs 4-7 lbs.
Which lives longer, Golden Retriever or Maltese?
Maltese tends to live longer (12-15 vs 10-12 years)
Are Golden Retrievers and Malteses good family dogs?
Both breeds can make great family pets. The Golden Retriever is known for being intelligent, friendly, devoted, while the Maltese is gentle, playful, charming.
What is the difference between a Golden Retriever and a Maltese?
The main differences are in size (Large vs Small), origin (Scotland vs Malta), and breed group (Sporting vs Toy).
Which breed is easier to train, Golden Retriever or Maltese?
Trainability varies by individual dog. The Golden Retriever (Intelligent, Friendly, Devoted) and Maltese (Gentle, Playful, Charming) each have distinct characteristics that affect training.