• Hungarian Language
  • English Language

Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier Comparison – Which dog is better Maltese lion dog or Yorkie?

"Find similarities and differences between Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier" Compare Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier. Which is better: Maltese or Yorkshire Terrier?
 
 
 
Name Maltese Yorkshire Terrier
OriginsItaly flagItaly England flagEngland
Group Companion Dogs Companion Dogs
Popularity Rank339
Reviews323
User Ratings

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

Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier Size and Weight Comparison

Size Classification
Which is bigger: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare size differences between these breeds.
Small Small
Weight Statistics
Compare weight ranges between a Maltese and a Yorkshire Terrier. Which breed is heavier?
6.5-9 pounds (3-4 kg) 2-3 kg (4-7 pounds)
Average Weight
Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?
6.7 pounds (3.5 kg) 2.5 kg (5.5 pounds)
Height
Which is taller, Maltese or Yorkshire Terrier? Is a Maltese taller than a Yorkshire Terrier?
Male: 8-10 inches (21-25 cm), Female: 8-9 inches (20-23 cm) 20-23 cm (8-9 inches)
Average Height
Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?
Male: 9 inches (23 cm), Female: 8.5 inches (21.5 cm) 21.5 cm (8.5 inches)

Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier Price and Availability Comparison

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

Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligence Rating
Which is smarter: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare intelligence rankings and learning abilities.
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
See more.
Smart: The Yorkshire Terrier dogs have great intelligence.
See more.
Training Difficulty
Which is easier to train: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare training requirements.
Maltese dogs are quite easy to train.
See more.
Yorkshire Terrier dogs are quite easy to train.
See more.
Watchdog Rating
Which makes a better watchdog: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare alertness levels.
Maltese dogs are average watchdogs.
See more.
Yorkshire Terrier dogs are good watchdogs.
See more.
Territorial Protection
Which is more protective: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare territorial behaviors.
Maltese dogs strongly protect their territory.
See more.
Yorkshire Terrier dogs strongly protect their territory.
See more.

Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier Personality and Temperament Comparison

Personality Traits
Compare personalities of a Maltese and a Yorkshire Terrier. How do their temperaments differ?
Active
Playful
Intelligent
Responsive
Docile
Gentle
Tempered
Sweet
Easygoing
Playful
Independent
Energetic
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Loyal
Sensitivity Level
Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference between Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier?
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds.
See more.
Sensitive: Yorkshire Terrier dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.
See more.
Affection Level
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier?
High: Maltese dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
See more.
High: Yorkshire Terrier dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
See more.
Social Needs
Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier social needs comparison:
Maltese dogs need a lot of social interaction.
See more.
Yorkshire Terrier dogs need a lot of social interaction.
See more.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
Which dog has a greater roaming instinct? What's the difference between Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier?
Maltese dogs are not the biggest explorers.
See more.
Yorkshire Terrier dogs have average wanderlust potential.
See more.
Prey Drive
Which dog has a higher prey drive? What's the difference between Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier? Which can be better for hunting?
Maltese dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds.
See more.
Yorkshire Terrier dogs have low to an average impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals.
See more.

Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier Activity and Playfulness Comparison

Barking Frequency
Which breed barks more: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare vocalization tendencies.
A lot: Maltese is a particularly loud breed.
See more.
A lot: Yorkshire Terrier is a particularly loud breed.
See more.
Playful Nature
Which breed is more playful: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare play drive and energy.
Average: Malteses, like any other dog breed, like playing.
See more.
Average: Yorkshire Terriers, like any other dog breed, like playing.
See more.
Apartment Adaptability
Which is better for apartments: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare living space needs.
Very house-friendly dog the Maltese breed.
Very house-friendly dog the Yorkshire Terrier breed.

Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier Adaptability and Independence Comparison

Lifestyle Adaptability
Which adapts better to changes: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare adaptability levels.
Maltese dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Yorkshire Terrier dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Alone Time Tolerance
Which dog can be left alone: Maltese or Yorkshire Terrier?
Maltese dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
Yorkshire Terrier dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier Bite Characteristics Comparison

Bite Risk Assessment
Which has lower bite risk: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare biting tendencies.

Low 🔽

The Maltese has a low chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

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

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Maltese bite force: Weak.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Yorkshire Terrier bite force: Weak.

Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier Health and Lifespan Comparison

Average Lifespan
Which lives longer: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare average lifespans.
14-18 years
The average lifespan of Maltese: 16 years
12-16 years
The average lifespan of Yorkshire Terrier: 14 years
Climate Tolerance
Which handles weather better: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? 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 average to warm weather conditions
Different dogs have different preferences when it comes to weather conditions.
See more.
Health Concerns
Compare common health issues between a Maltese and a Yorkshire Terrier. Which breed is healthier?
The Maltese is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Yorkshire Terriers are commonly healthy dogs.
Vet Care Frequency
Which one may need more or less veterinary visits: Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier?
Average
The Maltese should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Rare
The Yorkshire Terrier 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 Yorkshire Terrier? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier health problems comparison:
Collapsed Trachea
Patellar Luxation
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Portosystemic Liver Shunt
Reverse Sneezing
Hypoglycemia
White Dog Shaker Syndrome
Collapsed Trachea
Patellar Luxation
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Portosystemic Liver Shunt
Reverse Sneezing
Hypoglycemia

Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier Energy and Activity Comparison

Energy Rating
Which breed is more energetic: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? 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.
Yorkshire Terrier dogs are high-energy dogs.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier exercise need comparison. Which dog needs more activity? Which dog needs the most exercise: Maltese or Yorkshire Terrier? Which dog needs the most walking? Which dog is the laziest?
Maltese dogs exercise need is very minimal.
Yorkshire Terrier dogs exercise need is very minimal.
Sleeping Need
Which one sleeps the least/most: Maltese or Yorkshire Terrier?
Maltese dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.
Yorkshire Terrier dogs don't need too much sleep.

Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Obesity Tendency
Which gains weight easier: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare obesity risks.
Average: The Maltese has an average risk for obesity.
See more.
Low to Average: The Yorkshire Terrier has a low to the average risk for obesity.
See more.
Food Consumption
Which eats more: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare daily food needs.
Recommended daily amount: 1/4 to 1/2 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. Recommended daily amount: 1/2 to 3/4 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Allergy Friendliness
Which is more hypoallergenic: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare allergy friendliness.
Yes See more. Yes See more.
Coat Colors
What color variations exist for Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier? Compare breed colors.
White Black
Tan
Blue
Gold
Grooming Requirements
Which needs more grooming: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare maintenance needs.
Average: The Maltese requires average grooming effort.
See more.
Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
See more.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare drooling amounts.
The Maltese is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.
The Yorkshire Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.
Stinkiness Rating
Which has less odor: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare natural smell levels.

Medium

The Maltese has an average chance of bad smell.

Medium

The Yorkshire Terrier has an average chance of bad smell.
Coat Characteristics
How do coats differ between a Maltese and a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare fur types.
Feathered Fine
Bathing Needs
Which needs more baths: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare bathing frequencies.
6-8 weeks
Rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one.
See more.
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds.
See more.
Shedding Level
Who sheds more Maltese or Yorkshire Terrier? Do Maltese dogs shed more than Yorkshire Terrier dogs?
Maltese dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.
Yorkshire Terrier dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.

Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier Good With Comparison

Child Compatibility
Which is better with children: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare kid-friendliness.
Maltese dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
Yorkshire Terrier dogs are not kid-friendly dogs.
Pet Compatibility
Which dog breeds get along well with other animals/pets?
Maltese dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.
Yorkshire Terrier dogs are usually friendly towards other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Which dog is more stranger friendly Maltese or Yorkshire Terrier? Which dog is more friendly?
Maltese dogs are very stranger-friendly dogs.
Yorkshire Terrier dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Cat Friendly
Which dog is more cat friendly Maltese or Yorkshire Terrier?
Maltese dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
Yorkshire Terrier dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Which dog is more dog friendly Maltese or Yorkshire Terrier? Can a Maltese and a Yorkshire Terrier be friends? Do Maltese dogs get along with Yorkshire Terrier dogs?
Maltese dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
Yorkshire Terrier dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Which dog is best for first time owners: Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier?
Yes
Maltese dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Yes
Yorkshire Terrier 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
Yorkshire Terrier 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.
Yorkshire Terriers are not recommended for elderly people.

Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier As a Working Dog Comparison

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

Not really

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

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog.
See more.
Therapy Work Suitability
Which is better for therapy work: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? Compare therapy capabilities.

Not really

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

Yes

This breed makes a perfect therapy dog.
See more.
Scent Detection Ability
Which is better at detection work: a Maltese or a Yorkshire Terrier? 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 Yorkshire Terrier? 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 Yorkshire Terrier? Compare maritime abilities.

Not really

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

Not really

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

Not really

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

Not really

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 Yorkshire Terrier. 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 Yorkshire Terrier Reproducibility Comparison

Puppy Litter Size
Compare litter sizes between Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier. Which has larger litters?
3-5 puppies 4-6 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
Compare pregnancy duration between Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier breeds.
60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more.
Breeding Frequency
Compare breeding frequencies between Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier. 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 Yorkshire Terrier Recognition Comparison

AKC Classification
Compare AKC classifications of Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier. 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 1885 as a Toy breed.
FCI Classification
Compare FCI classifications of Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier. 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 Terriers group, in the Toy Terriers section.
Kennel Club Recognition
Compare kennel club recognition between Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier. 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

Rate This Comparsion - Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier

Reviews