Poodle vs Maltese

Side-by-side comparison

Choosing between Poodle and Maltese depends on your specific needs and priorities.

When it comes to size, Poodle offers Large compared to Maltese's Small. When it comes to weight, Poodle offers 40-70 lbs compared to Maltese's 4-7 lbs. When it comes to height, Poodle offers 15-22 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.

Size
Poodle
Large
Maltese
Small
Weight
Poodle
40-70 lbs
Maltese
4-7 lbs
Height
Poodle
15-22 inches
Maltese
7-9 inches
Lifespan
Poodle
10-18 years
Maltese
12-15 years
Temperament
Poodle
IntelligentActiveAlert
Maltese
GentlePlayfulCharming
Group
Poodle
Non-Sporting
Maltese
Toy
Origin
Poodle
Germany
Maltese
Malta

Poodle

Poodle is a large Non-Sporting breed from Germany. Known for being intelligent, active, alert. Has an average lifespan of 10-18 years and a weight range of 40-70 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

AttributePoodleMalteseVerdict
SizeLargeSmallPoodle is the larger breed
Weight40-70 lbs4-7 lbsPoodle is heavier (approx. 900% difference)
Height15-22"7-9"Different heights (15-22" vs 7-9")
Life Span10-18 yrs12-15 yrsPoodle tends to live longer (10-18 vs 12-15 years)
Breed GroupNon-SportingToyDifferent groups: Non-Sporting vs Toy
OriginGermanyMaltaDifferent origins: Germany vs Malta
TemperamentIntelligent, Active, AlertGentle, Playful, CharmingDifferent temperaments

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Poodle bigger than a Maltese?

Poodle is the larger breed. Poodle weighs 40-70 lbs while Maltese weighs 4-7 lbs.

Which lives longer, Poodle or Maltese?

Poodle tends to live longer (10-18 vs 12-15 years)

Are Poodles and Malteses good family dogs?

Both breeds can make great family pets. The Poodle is known for being intelligent, active, alert, while the Maltese is gentle, playful, charming.

What is the difference between a Poodle and a Maltese?

The main differences are in size (Large vs Small), origin (Germany vs Malta), and breed group (Non-Sporting vs Toy).

Which breed is easier to train, Poodle or Maltese?

Trainability varies by individual dog. The Poodle (Intelligent, Active, Alert) and Maltese (Gentle, Playful, Charming) each have distinct characteristics that affect training.