Maltese vs Russell Terrier
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.
Russell Terrier
Alert, inquisitive and family-oriented, the Russell Terrier makes an ideal household companion.
Similar to but distinct from the Jack Russell and Parson Russell, the Russell Terrier is slightly smaller with a square body. They're spirited, athletic dogs.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Trait | Maltese | Russell Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Tiny | Small |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years | 12-14 years |
| Energy Level | Moderate | Very High |
| Grooming Needs | Very High | Low |
| Trainability | Moderate | High |
| Kid-Friendly | Moderate | High |
| Apartment Suitable | Very High | High |
| Sociability | High | High |
| Barking Level | High | High |
Detailed Analysis
When comparing the Maltese and Russell Terrier, both breeds bring unique qualities to the table. The Maltese is a tiny-sized breed from Malta with a lifespan of 12-15 years. The Russell Terrier hails from England and typically lives 12-14 years. Energy-wise, the Maltese is moderate while the Russell Terrier is very high, which may influence your choice depending on your activity level. 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 Maltese if...
- You want a tiny-sized toy breed
- You can provide moderate levels of exercise
- You're looking for a gentle companion
Choose Russell Terrier if...
- You want a small-sized terrier breed
- You can provide very high levels of exercise
- You're looking for a alert companion
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between a Maltese and a Russell Terrier?
The Maltese is a tiny-sized breed with moderate energy, while the Russell Terrier is small-sized with very high energy. They also differ in grooming needs, trainability, and temperament.
Which is better for families, Maltese or Russell Terrier?
The Maltese has a kid-friendliness rating of 3/5 while the Russell Terrier scores 4/5. Both can be great family dogs with proper training and socialization.
Which breed is easier to train?
The Maltese has a trainability rating of 3/5 and the Russell Terrier scores 4/5. The Russell Terrier is generally easier to train.
Do Malteses or Russell Terriers need more exercise?
The Maltese has moderate energy needs while the Russell Terrier has very high energy needs. The Russell Terrier generally needs more exercise.
How long do Malteses and Russell Terriers live?
The Maltese typically lives 12-15 years, while the Russell Terrier has an average lifespan of 12-14 years.