MalteseVSHavanese
The Maltese and Havanese are both small, low-shedding companion dogs with long, silky coats. The Havanese is slightly more robust and family-friendly; the Maltese is more delicate and bonds intensely with a single owner.
Last reviewed: June 2026
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Maltese | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 4–7 lbs, 7–9 in | 7–13 lbs, 8.5–11.5 in |
| Energy Level | Moderate | Moderate |
| Shedding | Very Low | Very Low |
| Trainability | Good | ✓Very Good |
| Good With Kids | Moderate (fragile) | ✓Excellent |
| Apartment Friendly | Excellent | Excellent |
| Average Lifespan | 12–15 years | ✓14–16 years |
| Monthly Cost (est.) | $80–$180 | $80–$180 |
✓ indicates advantage in this category. Tie = comparable.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Choose a Maltese if…
Singles or couples who want a delicate, devoted companion and can provide the constant attention Maltese crave.
Choose a Havanese if…
Families with children who want a sturdier, more outgoing small dog that adapts well to busy households.
Grooming & Shedding: Maltese vs Havanese
Both the Maltese and Havanese are low-shedding breeds with long, flowing coats that require regular maintenance. Maltese have a long, silky, single-layer white coat that sheds very minimally. However, their pure white coat is prone to tear staining around the eyes and food staining around the muzzle, requiring daily facial cleaning. Brushing daily or every other day is needed to prevent matting, and professional grooming every 6–8 weeks is standard. Havanese have a longer double coat that is silky and wavy or slightly curly. They also shed very minimally. Their coats can be kept in a full show coat (requiring daily brushing) or trimmed to a shorter, more manageable pet cut maintained with professional grooming every 6–8 weeks. Both breeds have similar grooming investment requirements. Tear staining management is more demanding for the Maltese due to their all-white coat.
Temperament & Family Compatibility
Maltese are ancient companion dogs with a gentle, devoted, and somewhat delicate personality. They bond intensely with their primary caregiver and can develop significant separation anxiety. They are affectionate and sweet but can be stubborn in training, especially with housebreaking. Their fragile size (4–7 lbs) makes them unsuitable for households with very young or rough children who could accidentally injure them. Havanese are slightly sturdier and more outgoing. They are sunny, sociable, and adaptable — equally comfortable with seniors, families with children, and singles. They are more eager to please than Maltese and easier to train. Both breeds excel as apartment companions. For a family with children or those wanting a more robust small companion, the Havanese is the better choice. For a devoted lap dog in a calm home, the Maltese is supremely affectionate.
Compare pet insurance for Maltese and Havanese
Both breeds have different health profiles — find the right coverage level before your first vet visit.
Compare Pet Insurance QuotesFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better with children?
Havanese are significantly better with children. They are sturdier, more tolerant, and enjoy active play. Maltese are fragile and can be injured easily by rough handling — they are better suited to calm households or those with older, gentle children.
Which is easier to train?
Havanese are generally easier to train — they are eager to please and respond quickly to positive reinforcement. Maltese can be more stubborn and are known for being difficult to house-train. Patience and consistency are key with both breeds.
Do both breeds have separation anxiety?
Both breeds are companion dogs that dislike being left alone. Maltese are particularly prone to separation anxiety and do not do well in households where they are left alone for long periods. Havanese cope slightly better but still prefer company.
Find the perfect name for your Maltese or Havanese
Our name finder quiz considers your dog's breed, personality, coat color, and vibe to give you a personalized top-3 recommendation — with explanations and audio.
Find the Perfect Name — Free🐾
Track your Maltese or Havanese's health for free
Care log, vaccination tracker, weight trends, and health journal — all in one place. Works in your browser.
Create free account →No credit card required · Works in your browser