Breed matchup

Havanese vs Maltese

Interactive head-to-head—swap sides, filter traits, and see who edges each lifestyle score before you read the full guides.

Havanese

Maltese

Havanese

small · Cuba

Maltese

small · Malta

Head-to-head

Havanese vs Maltese

Silky white toy companions—Maltese coats stay white and floor-length if grown out; Havanese are often slightly sturdier with a silkier wavy coat.

small vs small

Energy 3 vs 3

long vs long

14-16 years · 12-15 years

Biggest differences

Weight

7-13 lbs

4-7 lbs

Height

8-11 inches

8-10 inches

Lifespan

14-16 years

12-15 years

Monthly cost*

$50–$100

*Typical ownership cost band estimate—not a quote.

Lifestyle scores

Tap a trait for context. Filter by what matters most to you.

Lower-shed / hypoallergenic lean: Maltese. No breed is fully allergen-free.

Temperament

Typical breed leanings—individuals vary.

Havanese

Small dog with a silky, flowing coat. Overall, Havaneses are described as affectionate, intelligent, energetic, loyal. Trainability sits around 5/5 and bark tendency around 3/5, so consistent positive training usually pays off quickly.

Affectionate

Intelligent

Energetic

Loyal

Maltese

Small dog with a beautiful white silky coat. Overall, Malteses are described as gentle, playful, affectionate, intelligent. Trainability sits around 5/5 and bark tendency around 3/5, so consistent positive training usually pays off quickly.

Gentle

Playful

Affectionate

Intelligent

Care side by side

Grooming, exercise, and training at a glance.

Havanese

Moderate energy requiring daily walks and playtime.

Maltese

Low energy requiring short walks and indoor play.

Who should choose which?

Use this as a shortlist—then meet dogs and read full guides.

Choose Havanese

Choose a Havanese if you want a small dog with moderate energy, kids fit excellent, and apartment fit excellent. Temperament leans affectionate and intelligent.

Choose Maltese

Choose a Maltese if you prefer small size, moderate energy, kids fit excellent, and apartment fit excellent. Traits include gentle and playful.

Still deciding?

Take the lifestyle match quiz or open both breed guides for first-year costs, health screening, and adopter questions.

FAQs

What is the difference between a Havanese and a Maltese?

Silky white toy companions—Maltese coats stay white and floor-length if grown out; Havanese are often slightly sturdier with a silkier wavy coat.

Which is better for apartments, Havanese or Maltese?

Both score 5/5 for apartments — daily exercise still decides success.

Which is better with kids, Havanese or Maltese?

Both rate 5/5 with children when supervised and socialized.

How do Havanese and Maltese compare on energy?

Havanese: 3/5 (moderate). Maltese: 3/5 (moderate). Match the higher-energy breed only if you can meet exercise needs daily.

References

This comparison summarizes publicly available breed-standard and veterinary education sources. Always consult your veterinarian for individual care, and meet dogs in person before deciding.