Havanese vs Maltese: Which Puppy is Best for Your Family

Both the Havanese and Maltese are itsy-bitsy dogs that are extremely loving and make for fantastic companions, so naturally, picking between them is quite a herculean task. However, their differences can help us make a better decision. So, let’s compare their temperament, care needs, along with their suitability for different households.

Temperament & Personality

Let’s talk about their personality first. Whilst dogs are just like people and have their individual personalities, breeds can be generalized to have certain characteristics. Poodles are smart, Chihuahuas are feisty, and so on.

Havanese pups are known for their outgoing and social personalities. These are top-tier extroverts that absolutely love being the center of attention. They get along with everyone, kids and other pets included, so they’re quite fine in a busy household. Their nature is quite adaptable, so they’re one of the best small dog breeds for apartment living, and they’re fine living in a villa as well. Give them the attention they need, and they’re happy.

Maltese, on the other hand, are a bit more selective about their affection. Consider them to be ambiverts that are incredibly loving and only towards those they form bonds with. They can be wary of strangers, but if socialized correctly, they’re chill around them as well. If you prefer a dog that’s on the calmer side of things, a devoted lap dog so to speak, Maltese might be the perfect match.

Size & Appearance

One just might be forgiven to, at a glance, assume they’re the same dog with a bit of a size difference. However, as they grow, their features start to shine, and if nothing else, their size makes it quite obvious.

Havanese are compact but sturdy little dogs, weighing in at 7-12 lbs, with long and wavy coats that come in various color palettes.

Maltese, on the other hand, are a lot more petite and delicate, weighing only about 4-7 lbs, with their signature feature being a silky, pure white coat.

They give a very different impression, with Maltese looking a lot more elegant, so to speak, while Havanese have a fluffier and more playful look to them. If size matters, the Maltese is the noticeably smaller dog that happens to, obviously, also be the more fragile of the two.

Grooming Needs: High-Maintenance Coats

Now that we’ve discussed their appearance and size, it shouldn’t be too difficult to guess that Maltese happen to be the more high-maintenance of the lot, largely due to their long silky hair that gets tangled rather easily and requires daily brushing and professional grooming every few weeks.

Havanese, though to call them low-maintenance wouldn’t really be appropriate, have a wavier coat that is slightly easier to manage but still needs plenty of attention.

Neglect grooming, and you’ll be dealing with mats, skin irritation, and an unhappy pup.

Energy Levels & Exercise

Both pups need exercise—daily walks, interactive games, and perhaps even some agility training. Both dogs are little balls of energy, so they can keep up with an active lifestyle with little to no effort. Maltese, however, being the smaller pup, are equally fine being just a lapdog and might need a bit of support for really long hikes. So, if you do intend on taking a lot of those, a Havanese will be the better match.

Training & Intelligence

Both breeds are smart, but Havanese are easier to train. They’re eager to please and pick up commands quickly. Maltese, however, can be stubborn. Training requires patience, consistency, and plenty of positive reinforcement.

Housebreaking a Maltese can take longer, so if quick potty training is a priority, the Havanese wins here.

Health & Lifespan

Havanese: Generally healthy but prone to hip dysplasia and eye problems. Lifespan: 14-16 years.

Maltese: Susceptible to dental issues and tracheal collapse. Lifespan: 12-15 years.

Small breeds tend to live long, but regular vet check-ups are essential. Maltese, in particular, require extra dental care due to their tiny mouths.

Which One is Right for You?

Pick a Havanese if: You want a playful, social, easy-to-train dog that fits into an active family.

Pick a Maltese if: You prefer a quieter, elegant companion who bonds deeply and loves being pampered.

Conclusion

The wonderful thing about the question of which pup is right for you is that there really is no wrong answer. Both pups are quite similar and hold the capacity to contribute greatly to your life. However, Havanese is the more active and social one, whereas Maltese is the laid-back friend in the group.

FAQs

Which Breed Is Better for Allergies?

Both are hypoallergenic, but Maltese shed slightly less.

Do Havanese or Maltese Bark More?

Maltese tend to be more vocal. Havanese are quieter but will alert you when needed.

Which Breed Requires Less Grooming?

 Havanese coats are easier to manage, though both require regular upkeep.