Dachshund vs Maltese
Dachshund
A clever, stubborn small breed that makes a wonderful companion.
The iconic 'wiener dog' is famously long and low. Curious, lively, and charming with a big-dog bark, Dachshunds are clever and courageous, sometimes to the point of rashness.
Maltese
Known for being gentle, playful, the Maltese has won hearts worldwide.
Maltese are elegant toy dogs with flowing white coats. They've been lap dogs of royalty for centuries and remain popular companions today.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Trait | Dachshund | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Tiny |
| Lifespan | 12-16 years | 12-15 years |
| Energy Level | Moderate | Moderate |
| Grooming Needs | Low | Very High |
| Trainability | Moderate | Moderate |
| Kid-Friendly | Moderate | Moderate |
| Apartment Suitable | Very High | Very High |
| Sociability | Moderate | High |
| Barking Level | High | High |
Detailed Analysis
When comparing the Dachshund and Maltese, both breeds bring unique qualities to the table. The Dachshund is a small-sized breed from Germany with a lifespan of 12-16 years. The Maltese hails from Malta and typically lives 12-15 years. Both breeds have their own grooming and training requirements — check the detailed comparison above to see which fits your lifestyle best.
Which Is Right For You?
Choose Dachshund if...
- You want a small-sized hound breed
- You can provide moderate levels of exercise
- You're looking for a clever companion
Choose Maltese if...
- You want a tiny-sized toy breed
- You can provide moderate levels of exercise
- You're looking for a gentle companion
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between a Dachshund and a Maltese?
The Dachshund is a small-sized breed with moderate energy, while the Maltese is tiny-sized with moderate energy. They also differ in grooming needs, trainability, and temperament.
Which is better for families, Dachshund or Maltese?
The Dachshund has a kid-friendliness rating of 3/5 while the Maltese scores 3/5. Both can be great family dogs with proper training and socialization.
Which breed is easier to train?
The Dachshund has a trainability rating of 3/5 and the Maltese scores 3/5. Both breeds have similar trainability.
Do Dachshunds or Malteses need more exercise?
The Dachshund has moderate energy needs while the Maltese has moderate energy needs. Both need similar exercise.
How long do Dachshunds and Malteses live?
The Dachshund typically lives 12-16 years, while the Maltese has an average lifespan of 12-15 years.