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Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese Comparison – Which dog is better Drop-Eared Norwich Terrier or Maltese lion dog?

"Find similarities and differences between Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese" Compare Norfolk Terrier and Maltese. Which is better: Norfolk Terrier or Maltese?
 
 
 
Name Norfolk Terrier Maltese
OriginsUnited Kingdom flagUnited Kingdom Italy flagItaly
Group Hunting Dogs Companion Dogs
Popularity Rank12833
Reviews03
User Ratings

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

Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese Size and Weight Comparison

Size Classification
Which is bigger: a Norfolk Terrier or a Maltese? Compare size differences between these breeds.
Small Small
Weight Statistics
Compare weight ranges between a Norfolk Terrier and a Maltese. Which breed is heavier?
10-12 pounds (4½-5½ kg) 6.5-9 pounds (3-4 kg)
Average Weight
Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?
11 pounds (5 kg) 6.7 pounds (3.5 kg)
Height
Which is taller, Norfolk Terrier or Maltese? Is a Norfolk Terrier taller than a Maltese?
10 inches (25 cm) Male: 8-10 inches (21-25 cm), Female: 8-9 inches (20-23 cm)
Average Height
Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?
10 inches (25 cm) Male: 9 inches (23 cm), Female: 8.5 inches (21.5 cm)

Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese Price and Availability Comparison

Price Range
Compare puppy prices between a Norfolk Terrier and a Maltese. Which breed costs more?
$2000-$2500 $600-$800
Availability
Which is easier to get, Norfolk Terrier or Maltese?
Frequent: The Norfolk Terrier is easier than average to get.
Very frequent: The Maltese is quite easy to get.

Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

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

Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese Personality and Temperament Comparison

Personality Traits
Compare personalities of a Norfolk Terrier and a Maltese. How do their temperaments differ?
Happy
Intelligent
Selfish
Fearless
Companionable
Spirited
Confidence
Lovable
Active
Playful
Intelligent
Responsive
Docile
Gentle
Tempered
Sweet
Easygoing
Sensitivity Level
Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference between Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese?
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: Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese?
Average to High: Norfolk Terrier dogs are highly affectionate dogs.
See more.
High: Maltese dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
See more.
Social Needs
Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese social needs comparison:
Norfolk Terrier dogs need for social interaction is average.
See more.
Maltese 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 Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese?
The wanderlust potential of the Norfolk Terrier is strong enough to escape from home.
See more.
Maltese dogs are not the biggest explorers.
See more.
Prey Drive
Which dog has a higher prey drive? What's the difference between Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese? Which can be better for hunting?
Their prey drive is low.
See more.
Maltese dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds.
See more.

Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese Activity and Playfulness Comparison

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

Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese Adaptability and Independence Comparison

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

Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese Bite Characteristics Comparison

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

Low 🔽

The Norfolk Terrier has a low chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

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

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Norfolk Terrier bite force: Weak.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Maltese bite force: Weak.

Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese Health and Lifespan Comparison

Average Lifespan
Which lives longer: a Norfolk Terrier or a Maltese? Compare average lifespans.
11-15 years
The average lifespan of Norfolk Terrier: 13 years
14-18 years
The average lifespan of Maltese: 16 years
Climate Tolerance
Which handles weather better: a Norfolk Terrier or a Maltese? Compare climate tolerances.
Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Norfolk Terrier can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.
See more.
Prefers warm weather
Dogs that prefer warm weather conditions are typically breeds that were originally bred in warmer climates.
See more.
Health Concerns
Compare common health issues between a Norfolk Terrier and a Maltese. Which breed is healthier?
The Norfolk Terrier is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
The Maltese is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Vet Care Frequency
Which one may need more or less veterinary visits: Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese?
Average
The Norfolk Terrier should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Average
The Maltese should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Health Problems
Which one has more or less genetic/health problems: Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese health problems comparison:
No data available Collapsed Trachea
Patellar Luxation
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Portosystemic Liver Shunt
Reverse Sneezing
Hypoglycemia
White Dog Shaker Syndrome

Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese Energy and Activity Comparison

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

Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese Diet and Weight Management Comparison

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

Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Allergy Friendliness
Which is more hypoallergenic: a Norfolk Terrier or a Maltese? Compare allergy friendliness.
Yes See more. Yes See more.
Coat Colors
What color variations exist for Norfolk Terrier and Maltese? Compare breed colors.
Black
Tan
Red
Grizzle
Wheaten
White
Grooming Requirements
Which needs more grooming: a Norfolk Terrier or a Maltese? Compare maintenance needs.
Average: The Norfolk Terrier requires average grooming effort.
See more.
Average: The Maltese requires average grooming effort.
See more.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more: a Norfolk Terrier or a Maltese? Compare drooling amounts.
The Norfolk Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.
The Maltese is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.
Stinkiness Rating
Which has less odor: a Norfolk Terrier or a Maltese? Compare natural smell levels.

Medium

The Norfolk Terrier has an average chance of bad smell.

Medium

The Maltese has an average chance of bad smell.
Coat Characteristics
How do coats differ between a Norfolk Terrier and a Maltese? Compare fur types.
Wiry
Shaggy
Feathered
Bathing Needs
Which needs more baths: a Norfolk Terrier or a Maltese? Compare bathing frequencies.
8-12 weeks
Very rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one.
See more.
6-8 weeks
Rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one.
See more.
Shedding Level
Who sheds more Norfolk Terrier or Maltese? Do Norfolk Terrier dogs shed more than Maltese dogs?
Norfolk Terrier dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.
Maltese dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.

Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese Good With Comparison

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

Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese As a Working Dog Comparison

Service Dog Capability
Which makes a better service dog: a Norfolk Terrier or a Maltese? 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 Norfolk Terrier or a Maltese? 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 Norfolk Terrier or a Maltese? 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 Norfolk Terrier or a Maltese? 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 Norfolk Terrier or a Maltese? Compare maritime abilities.

Not really

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

Not really

Maltese breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.
Draft Work Capability
Which is better at pulling: a Norfolk Terrier or a Maltese? 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 Norfolk Terrier and Maltese. 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.

Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese Reproducibility Comparison

Puppy Litter Size
Compare litter sizes between Norfolk Terrier and Maltese. Which has larger litters?
2-5 puppies 3-5 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
Compare pregnancy duration between Norfolk Terrier and Maltese breeds.
60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more.
Breeding Frequency
Compare breeding frequencies between Norfolk Terrier and Maltese. 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.

Norfolk Terrier vs Maltese Recognition Comparison

AKC Classification
Compare AKC classifications of Norfolk Terrier and Maltese. Which groups do they belong to?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1979 as a Terrier breed. Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888 as a Toy breed.
FCI Classification
Compare FCI classifications of Norfolk Terrier and Maltese. Which groups are they in?
Recognized by FCI in the Terriers group, in the Small sized Terriers section. Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Bichons and related breeds section.
Kennel Club Recognition
Compare kennel club recognition between Norfolk Terrier and Maltese. Which is more widely recognized?
No data available 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

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