German Shepherd vs Maltese: Choosing the Right Companion for You

Discover the unique qualities and differences between the German Shepherd and Maltese breeds.

Welcome to our detailed comparison of the German Shepherd and Maltese. Whether you're considering which breed to welcome into your home or simply curious about their differences, this guide offers an in-depth look at their characteristics, temperaments, and care needs.

German Shepherd

German Shepherd

Maltese

Maltese

Comparing German Shepherd and Maltese: A Detailed Overview

When considering the German Shepherd and the Maltese, we find unique and intriguing differences and similarities. Both breeds have their distinctive charm and characteristics, making them beloved by many.

The German Shepherd stands out with its very high energy level, contrasting the Maltese's high energy level.

The German Shepherd has a high shedding level, differing from the Maltese which shows a minimal shedding level.

Grooming the German Shepherd is high, which is not the case with the Maltese, needing demanding grooming.

The German Shepherd is excellent to train, which contrasts with the Maltese's above average training experience.

Neither the German Shepherd nor the Maltese are recommended for families with children, requiring more careful consideration for households with young members.

In terms of being hypoallergenic, the German Shepherd is not hypoallergenic, unlike the Maltese which is hypoallergenic.

The German Shepherd is categorized as a Large breed, which contrasts with the Maltese, a Small breed, highlighting their physical differences.

The expected lifespan of the German Shepherd is 9-13 years, which differs from the Maltese that generally lives for 12-15 years years.

Concluding, the German Shepherd and Maltese each offer unique qualities and advantages. Your final choice should reflect your personal lifestyle, home environment, and the qualities you value most in a canine companion.

Comparative Overview

Feature Face of German Shepherd German Shepherd Face of Maltese Maltese
Size Large Small
Lifespan 9-13 years 12-15 years
Temperament Confident, Courageous, Smart Playful, Affectionate, Intelligent
Energy Level very high high
Shedding Level high minimal
Grooming Needs high demanding
Trainability excellent above average
Good with Children okay okay
Hair Length Medium Long
Hair Type Double Silky
Hypoallergenic not hypoallergenic hypoallergenic
Food Requirements German Shepherds do well on high-quality dog food that supports their active lifestyle. They can be prone to bloating, so smaller, frequent meals are advisable. High-quality diet suitable for small breeds, mindful of dental health.

Conclusion

Both the German Shepherd and Maltese have unique qualities that make them beloved by many. Choosing the right breed depends on your lifestyle, space, and the time you can dedicate to grooming, training, and exercise. Consider all aspects to find the perfect furry companion for your home.

Test your knowledge

Breeds of the World