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Compare Maltese and Pekingese side by side: temperament, energy, trainability, apartment fit, shedding, lifespan, weight and free adoption listings.
Breed traits
Character & behavior
Energy level
Playfulness
Intelligence
Trainability
Protectiveness
Sociability
Can stay alone
Lifestyle fit
Apartment-friendly
Yes
Yes
Good with kids
Yes
No
Good for first-time owners
Yes
No
Shedding
Noise level
Exercise needs
Physical & general
Life span
12–15 years
12–15 years
Weight
3.5–4.5 kg
3.2–6.4 kg
Height
20–25 cm
20–25 cm
Origin
Malta
China
Grooming effort
Nutrition sensitivity
Health risk
Heat tolerance
Cold tolerance
When comparing the Maltese and the Pekingese, both breeds share similar lifespans and heights, making them suitable for apartment living. However, they differ significantly in temperament and care requirements. The Maltese is known for its high sociability and playfulness, making it a great companion for families and first-time owners. In contrast, the Pekingese tends to be more protective and less sociable, which may not be ideal for families with children. Grooming needs also vary, with the Maltese requiring more maintenance due to its longer coat. Overall, potential owners should consider their lifestyle and preferences when choosing between these two breeds.
Maltese — Advantages
- Highly sociable and friendly
- Great for families and first-time owners
- Low shedding level
- Good adaptability to apartment living
- Playful and intelligent
- Great for families and first-time owners
- Low shedding level
- Good adaptability to apartment living
- Playful and intelligent
Disadvantages
- Requires more grooming
- Can be noisy at times
- Moderate energy level may need some exercise
- Can be noisy at times
- Moderate energy level may need some exercise
Pekingese — Advantages
- Protective nature
- Lower grooming difficulty
- Good tolerance to cold climates
- Can adapt well to apartment living
- Lower grooming difficulty
- Good tolerance to cold climates
- Can adapt well to apartment living
Disadvantages
- Not suitable for families with young children
- Less sociable compared to Maltese
- Lower playfulness and trainability
- Higher noise level
- Less sociable compared to Maltese
- Lower playfulness and trainability
- Higher noise level
Frequently Asked Questions
Which breed is better for families with children?
The Maltese is better suited for families with children due to its sociable nature.
How much grooming do these breeds require?
The Maltese requires more grooming compared to the Pekingese, which has a lower grooming difficulty.
Are both breeds suitable for first-time dog owners?
The Maltese is a good choice for first-time owners, while the Pekingese is not recommended for them.
What are the exercise needs of each breed?
Both breeds have moderate exercise needs, but the Maltese is more playful and may require more active engagement.
How do they handle being alone?
Both breeds can stay alone for a while, but the Maltese may be more prone to separation anxiety.
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