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Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog Comparison – Which dog is better Maltese lion dog or Berner?

"Find similarities and differences between Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog" Compare Maltese and Bernese Mountain Dog. Which is better: Maltese or Bernese Mountain Dog?
 
 
 
Name Maltese Bernese Mountain Dog
OriginsItaly flagItaly Switzerland flagSwitzerland
Group Companion Dogs Working Dogs
Popularity Rank3325
Reviews36
User Ratings

Common Names & Aliases
Compare different names used for Maltese and Bernese Mountain Dog. What other names are these breeds known by?
Maltese lion dog
Maltese Dog
Berner
Bernese Cattle Dog
Berner Sennenhund
Breed Classification
Compare breed classifications between a Maltese and a Bernese Mountain Dog. Learn about their genetic backgrounds.
Purebred Purebred

Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog Size and Weight Comparison

Size Classification
Which is bigger: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare size differences between these breeds.
Small Large
Weight Statistics
Compare weight ranges between a Maltese and a Bernese Mountain Dog. Which breed is heavier?
6.5-9 pounds (3-4 kg) Male: 85-110 pounds (38–50 kg), Female: 80-105 pounds (36–48 kg)
Average Weight
Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?
6.7 pounds (3.5 kg) Male: 97.5 pounds (38–50 kg), Female: 92.5 pounds (36–48 kg)
Height
Which is taller, Maltese or Bernese Mountain Dog? Is a Maltese taller than a Bernese Mountain Dog?
Male: 8-10 inches (21-25 cm), Female: 8-9 inches (20-23 cm) Male: 24-28 inches (61–71 cm), Female: 23-27 inches (58–69 cm)
Average Height
Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?
Male: 9 inches (23 cm), Female: 8.5 inches (21.5 cm) Male: 26 inches (61–71 cm), Female: 25 inches (58–69 cm)

Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog Price and Availability Comparison

Price Range
Compare puppy prices between a Maltese and a Bernese Mountain Dog. Which breed costs more?
$600-$800 $800-$1000
Availability
Which is easier to get, Maltese or Bernese Mountain Dog?
Very frequent: The Maltese is quite easy to get.
Very frequent: The Bernese Mountain Dog is quite easy to get.

Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligence Rating
Which is smarter: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare intelligence rankings and learning abilities.
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
See more.
Very smart: Bernese Mountain Dog is an excellent dog breed.
See more.
Training Difficulty
Which is easier to train: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare training requirements.
Maltese dogs are quite easy to train.
See more.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are easy to train.
See more.
Watchdog Rating
Which makes a better watchdog: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare alertness levels.
Maltese dogs are average watchdogs.
See more.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
See more.
Territorial Protection
Which is more protective: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare territorial behaviors.
Maltese dogs strongly protect their territory.
See more.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are extremely protective guard dogs.
See more.

Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog Personality and Temperament Comparison

Personality Traits
Compare personalities of a Maltese and a Bernese Mountain Dog. How do their temperaments differ?
Active
Playful
Intelligent
Responsive
Docile
Gentle
Tempered
Sweet
Easygoing
Intelligent
Affectionate
Loyal
Faithful
Sensitivity Level
Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference between Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog?
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds.
See more.
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds.
See more.
Affection Level
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog?
High: Maltese dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
See more.
Average: Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are average dogs regarding their affection level.
See more.
Social Needs
Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog social needs comparison:
Maltese dogs need a lot of social interaction.
See more.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs need for social interaction is average.
See more.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
Which dog has a greater roaming instinct? What's the difference between Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog?
Maltese dogs are not the biggest explorers.
See more.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs have average wanderlust potential.
See more.
Prey Drive
Which dog has a higher prey drive? What's the difference between Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog? Which can be better for hunting?
Maltese dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds.
See more.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something.
See more.

Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog Activity and Playfulness Comparison

Barking Frequency
Which breed barks more: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare vocalization tendencies.
A lot: Maltese is a particularly loud breed.
See more.
Average: The Bernese Mountain Dog barks occasionally.
See more.
Playful Nature
Which breed is more playful: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare play drive and energy.
Average: Malteses, like any other dog breed, like playing.
See more.
Average: Bernese Mountain Dogs, like any other dog breed, like playing.
See more.
Apartment Adaptability
Which is better for apartments: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare living space needs.
Very house-friendly dog the Maltese breed.
It is not recommended to keep the Bernese Mountain Dog breed in the home.

Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog Adaptability and Independence Comparison

Lifestyle Adaptability
Which adapts better to changes: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare adaptability levels.
Maltese dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Average: Bernese Mountain Dog dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Alone Time Tolerance
Which dog can be left alone: Maltese or Bernese Mountain Dog?
Maltese dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner.

Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog Bite Characteristics Comparison

Bite Risk Assessment
Which has lower bite risk: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare biting tendencies.

Low 🔽

The Maltese has a low chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

The Bernese Mountain Dog has a low chance of biting somebody.
Mouthing Tendency
Which is more mouthy: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare mouthing behaviors.
Maltese dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
See more.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people.
See more.
Bite Strength Rating
Which has a stronger bite: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare bite force PSI.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Maltese bite force: Weak.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Bernese Mountain Dog bite force: Ordinary.

Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog Health and Lifespan Comparison

Average Lifespan
Which lives longer: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare average lifespans.
14-18 years
The average lifespan of Maltese: 16 years
7-11 years
The average lifespan of Bernese Mountain Dog: 9 years
Climate Tolerance
Which handles weather better: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare climate tolerances.
Prefers warm weather
Dogs that prefer warm weather conditions are typically breeds that were originally bred in warmer climates.
See more.
Prefers cold weather
The Bernese Mountain Dog can adapt well to harsh weather conditions, and also can be a good mountain dog.
See more.
Health Concerns
Compare common health issues between a Maltese and a Bernese Mountain Dog. Which breed is healthier?
The Maltese is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Very healthy dog breed.
Vet Care Frequency
Which one may need more or less veterinary visits: Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog?
Average
The Maltese should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Rare
The Bernese Mountain Dog should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year).
Health Problems
Which one has more or less genetic/health problems: Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog health problems comparison:
Collapsed Trachea
Patellar Luxation
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Portosystemic Liver Shunt
Reverse Sneezing
Hypoglycemia
White Dog Shaker Syndrome
Hip Dysplasia
Cancer
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Von Willebrand's Disease
Bloat
Elbow Dysplasia
Panosteitis
Portosystemic Liver Shunt

Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog Energy and Activity Comparison

Energy Rating
Which breed is more energetic: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare activity levels.
Maltese dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog exercise need comparison. Which dog needs more activity? Which dog needs the most exercise: Maltese or Bernese Mountain Dog? Which dog needs the most walking? Which dog is the laziest?
Maltese dogs exercise need is very minimal.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs have an average exercise need.
Sleeping Need
Which one sleeps the least/most: Maltese or Bernese Mountain Dog?
Maltese dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping.

Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Obesity Tendency
Which gains weight easier: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare obesity risks.
Average: The Maltese has an average risk for obesity.
See more.
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Bernese Mountain Dog's weight, he can easily gain weight.
See more.
Food Consumption
Which eats more: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare daily food needs.
Recommended daily amount: 1/4 to 1/2 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. 6 to 8 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Allergy Friendliness
Which is more hypoallergenic: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare allergy friendliness.
Yes See more. No See more.
Coat Colors
What color variations exist for Maltese and Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare breed colors.
White Black
White
Grooming Requirements
Which needs more grooming: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare maintenance needs.
Average: The Maltese requires average grooming effort.
See more.
Average: The Bernese Mountain Dog requires average grooming effort.
See more.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare drooling amounts.
The Maltese is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.
The Bernese Mountain Dog drools quite a lot, so if you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, you may want to choose another dog breed.
See more.
Stinkiness Rating
Which has less odor: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare natural smell levels.

Medium

The Maltese has an average chance of bad smell.

Medium

The Bernese Mountain Dog has an average chance of bad smell.
Coat Characteristics
How do coats differ between a Maltese and a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare fur types.
Feathered Dense
Bathing Needs
Which needs more baths: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare bathing frequencies.
6-8 weeks
Rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one.
See more.
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup.
See more.
Shedding Level
Who sheds more Maltese or Bernese Mountain Dog? Do Maltese dogs shed more than Bernese Mountain Dog dogs?
Maltese dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs shed above average.
See more.

Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog Good With Comparison

Child Compatibility
Which is better with children: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare kid-friendliness.
Maltese dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
Pet Compatibility
Which dog breeds get along well with other animals/pets?
Maltese dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Which dog is more stranger friendly Maltese or Bernese Mountain Dog? Which dog is more friendly?
Maltese dogs are very stranger-friendly dogs.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Cat Friendly
Which dog is more cat friendly Maltese or Bernese Mountain Dog?
Maltese dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Which dog is more dog friendly Maltese or Bernese Mountain Dog? Can a Maltese and a Bernese Mountain Dog be friends? Do Maltese dogs get along with Bernese Mountain Dog dogs?
Maltese dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Which dog is best for first time owners: Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog?
Yes
Maltese dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Yes
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Which one fits better in the office?
No
Maltese is not the best dog breed for office environment.
No
Bernese Mountain Dog is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Which dog is good for elderly people?
Malteses are usually recommended for elderly people.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are usually recommended for elderly people.

Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog As a Working Dog Comparison

Service Dog Capability
Which makes a better service dog: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare service capabilities.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog.
See more.

Yes

This breed makes good as a service dog.
See more.
Therapy Work Suitability
Which is better for therapy work: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare therapy capabilities.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
See more.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
See more.
Scent Detection Ability
Which is better at detection work: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.
Search & Rescue Potential
Which is better for search and rescue: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare SAR abilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.
Maritime Work Ability
Which is better on boats: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare maritime abilities.

Not really

Maltese breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.

Not really

Bernese Mountain Dog breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.
Draft Work Capability
Which is better at pulling: a Maltese or a Bernese Mountain Dog? Compare draft work capabilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
See more.

Yes

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
See more.
Military Service Background
Compare military history between Maltese and Bernese Mountain Dog. Which has stronger military background?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog Reproducibility Comparison

Puppy Litter Size
Compare litter sizes between Maltese and Bernese Mountain Dog. Which has larger litters?
3-5 puppies 1-14 puppies, average 8
Pregnancy Duration
Compare pregnancy duration between Maltese and Bernese Mountain Dog breeds.
60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more.
Breeding Frequency
Compare breeding frequencies between Maltese and Bernese Mountain Dog. Which needs longer recovery?

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.

Maltese vs Bernese Mountain Dog Recognition Comparison

AKC Classification
Compare AKC classifications of Maltese and Bernese Mountain Dog. Which groups do they belong to?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888 as a Toy breed. Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1937 as a Working breed.
FCI Classification
Compare FCI classifications of Maltese and Bernese Mountain Dog. Which groups are they in?
Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Bichons and related breeds section. Recognized by FCI in the Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs group, in the Swiss Mountain- and Cattledogs section.
Kennel Club Recognition
Compare kennel club recognition between Maltese and Bernese Mountain Dog. Which is more widely recognized?
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry

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