Havanese vs. Maltese

Attribute	Havanese	Maltese
Origin	Cuba	Malta
Size	Small	Small
Weight	7-13 pounds	4-7 pounds
Coat	Long, silky	Long, silky
Color	Various	White
Temperament	Intelligent, affectionate	Gentle, playful
Life Expectancy	14-16 years	12-15 years
Exercise Needs	Moderate	Low
Trainability	High	High

Introduction

When it comes to choosing a small dog breed, Havanese and Maltese are two popular options that often come to mind. Both breeds are known for their adorable appearance and affectionate nature. However, there are several key differences between these two breeds that potential owners should consider. In this article, we will delve into the attributes of Havanese and Maltese, exploring their temperament, grooming needs, exercise requirements, trainability, and health concerns.

Temperament

Havanese and Maltese share some similarities in terms of temperament, but they also have distinct characteristics. Havanese are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. They are sociable dogs that enjoy being around people and other animals. They are often described as being intelligent, curious, and eager to please. On the other hand, Maltese are known for their gentle and affectionate temperament. They are typically more reserved and may take some time to warm up to strangers. Maltese are also known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners.

Grooming Needs

When it comes to grooming, both Havanese and Maltese require regular maintenance due to their long, silky coats. Havanese have a double coat that consists of a soft, downy undercoat and a longer, wavy outer coat. They require daily brushing to prevent matting and regular bathing to keep their coat clean and healthy. Additionally, regular trimming of the hair around their eyes and ears is necessary to prevent irritation. Maltese, on the other hand, have a single, straight coat that requires daily brushing to prevent tangles and matting. Regular bathing and trimming of the hair around their eyes and paws are also essential for their grooming needs.

Exercise Requirements

When it comes to exercise, both Havanese and Maltese are relatively active breeds despite their small size. Havanese are known for their playful and energetic nature. They enjoy daily walks, interactive play sessions, and mental stimulation. Havanese also excel in various dog sports such as agility and obedience. Maltese, on the other hand, have slightly lower exercise requirements. They still enjoy daily walks and playtime but are generally content with indoor activities. Due to their small size, Maltese can get sufficient exercise through interactive play sessions and short walks.

Trainability

When it comes to trainability, both Havanese and Maltese are intelligent breeds that can be trained with consistency and positive reinforcement. Havanese are known for their eagerness to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. They respond well to reward-based training methods and enjoy learning new tricks and commands. Maltese, on the other hand, can be a bit more independent and stubborn at times. They may require additional patience and consistency during training sessions. However, with proper training techniques and positive reinforcement, Maltese can also excel in obedience and other training activities.

Health Concerns

Like all dog breeds, both Havanese and Maltese are prone to certain health issues that potential owners should be aware of. Havanese are generally considered a healthy breed, but they may be prone to conditions such as patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and deafness. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet are essential to maintain their overall health. Maltese, on the other hand, may be prone to dental issues, patellar luxation, and white shaker syndrome. Regular dental care and monitoring their joint health are important for the well-being of Maltese.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Havanese and Maltese are wonderful small dog breeds with their own unique attributes. Havanese are known for their friendly and outgoing nature, while Maltese are gentle and affectionate. Both breeds require regular grooming to maintain their beautiful coats, and they have moderate exercise requirements. When it comes to trainability, Havanese are generally more eager to please, while Maltese may require additional patience. Lastly, both breeds have certain health concerns that potential owners should be aware of. Ultimately, the choice between Havanese and Maltese depends on individual preferences and lifestyle. Regardless of the breed chosen, both Havanese and Maltese can bring joy, companionship, and endless love to their owners.