Labrador Retriever vs Maltese
Side-by-side comparison
Choosing between Labrador Retriever and Maltese depends on your specific needs and priorities.
When it comes to size, Labrador Retriever offers Large compared to Maltese's Small. When it comes to weight, Labrador Retriever offers 55-80 lbs compared to Maltese's 4-7 lbs. When it comes to height, Labrador Retriever offers 21-25 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.
| Labrador Retriever | Attribute | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Large | Size | Small |
| 55-80 lbs | Weight | 4-7 lbs |
| 21-25 inches | Height | 7-9 inches |
| 10-12 years | Lifespan | 12-15 years |
FriendlyActiveOutgoing | Temperament | GentlePlayfulCharming |
| Sporting | Group | Toy |
| Canada | Origin | Malta |
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retriever is a large Sporting breed from Canada. Known for being friendly, active, outgoing. Has an average lifespan of 10-12 years and a weight range of 55-80 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 | Labrador Retriever | Maltese | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Small | Labrador Retriever is the larger breed |
| Weight | 55-80 lbs | 4-7 lbs | Labrador Retriever is heavier (approx. 1127% difference) |
| Height | 21-25" | 7-9" | Different heights (21-25" 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 | Canada | Malta | Different origins: Canada vs Malta |
| Temperament | Friendly, Active, Outgoing | Gentle, Playful, Charming | Different temperaments |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Labrador Retriever bigger than a Maltese?
Labrador Retriever is the larger breed. Labrador Retriever weighs 55-80 lbs while Maltese weighs 4-7 lbs.
Which lives longer, Labrador Retriever or Maltese?
Maltese tends to live longer (12-15 vs 10-12 years)
Are Labrador Retrievers and Malteses good family dogs?
Both breeds can make great family pets. The Labrador Retriever is known for being friendly, active, outgoing, while the Maltese is gentle, playful, charming.
What is the difference between a Labrador Retriever and a Maltese?
The main differences are in size (Large vs Small), origin (Canada vs Malta), and breed group (Sporting vs Toy).
Which breed is easier to train, Labrador Retriever or Maltese?
Trainability varies by individual dog. The Labrador Retriever (Friendly, Active, Outgoing) and Maltese (Gentle, Playful, Charming) each have distinct characteristics that affect training.