Breed matchup

Labrador Retriever vs Maltese

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

Labrador Retriever

Maltese

Labrador Retriever

large · Canada

Maltese

small · Malta

Head-to-head

Labrador Retriever vs Maltese

Derived comparison from breed profiles: Labrador Retriever runs very high energy vs Maltese's moderate. Kids compatibility is close (5/5 each). Labrador Retriever sheds more (4/5). America's most popular dog breed. Small dog with a beautiful white silky coat.

Derived from breed profile scores—not a substitute for meeting dogs or consulting professionals.

large vs small

Energy 5 vs 3

short vs long

10-12 years · 12-15 years

Biggest differences

Weight

55-80 lbs

4-7 lbs

Height

21-24 inches

8-10 inches

Lifespan

10-12 years

12-15 years

Monthly cost*

$80–$150

$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.

Labrador Retriever

America's most popular dog breed. Overall, Labrador Retrievers are described as outgoing, even-tempered, gentle, agile. Trainability sits around 5/5 and bark tendency around 2/5, so consistent positive training usually pays off quickly.

Outgoing

Even-tempered

Gentle

Agile

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.

Labrador Retriever

Highly energetic breed requiring 1-2 hours of vigorous exercise daily.

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 Labrador Retriever

Choose a Labrador Retriever if you want a large dog with very high energy, kids fit excellent, and apartment fit limited. Temperament leans outgoing and even-tempered.

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 Labrador Retriever and a Maltese?

Which is better for apartments, Labrador Retriever or Maltese?

Maltese is the stronger apartment candidate (5/5).

Which is better with kids, Labrador Retriever or Maltese?

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

How do Labrador Retriever and Maltese compare on energy?

Labrador Retriever: 5/5 (very high). 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.