English Setter vs Maltese
A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.
English Setter
Also known as: Laverack Setter, Llewellin Setter
The English Setter is a graceful and elegant gun dog known for its distinctive feathered coat and gentle demeanor. Often called the 'gentleman of the dog world,' they combine athletic prowess with a sweet, affectionate temperament that makes them exceptional family companions for active households.
Large
High
11-13 yrs
61-69 cm
Maltese
Also known as: Maltese Lion Dog, Melita, Roman Ladies' Dog, Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta
The Maltese is an ancient companion breed with a long, silky white coat. Known for its affectionate, devoted nature and low-shedding coat, this toy breed requires dedicated grooming but rewards owners with unwavering devotion. Originally bred for over 2,000 years solely for companionship, the Maltese thrives on human contact and struggles when left alone.
Extra Small
Medium
12-15+ yrs
21-25 cm
1.8-3.2 kg
Quick Comparison
| Trait | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming Needs | ||
| Family Friendly | ||
| Independence |
Key Characteristics
| Good with Kids | ||
| Good with Dogs | ||
| Good with Cats | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Apartment Friendly | ||
| First-Time Owner OK |
| Detail | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Extra Small |
| Energy Level | High | Medium |
| Grooming | High | High |
| Trainability | Moderate | Moderate |
| Barking Level | Medium | High |
| Shedding Level | High | Low |
| Chew strength | Moderate | Light |
| Housing | Yard | Apartment |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Intermediate | Beginner (with grooming commitment) |
| First-Time Owner | ||
| Ideal Owner | Hikers, runners, hunters, or active families with a large fenced yard. Someone who works from home or can provide companionship. Understanding they are getting a hunting dog, not a couch ornament. | Retirees, empty nesters, or remote workers who enjoy constant physical contact. Someone who wants a 'baby' rather than just a dog and has time for dedicated grooming. |
English Setter Dealbreakers
- No fenced yard - dealing with a Setter without secure fencing is a part-time job
- Work long hours away from home - separation anxiety is significant
- Cannot commit to 60-90 min daily exercise
- Fastidious housekeepers - mud, hair, and water drips are part of the package
Maltese Dealbreakers
- Work away from home 8+ hours
- Have toddlers (fragile breed - falling on Maltese can break bones)
- Cannot commit to daily grooming and dental care
- Noise-sensitive living situation
Surrender Risk
| Factor | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | Medium | Medium |
| Primary Reasons | Escaping - 'He won't stay in the yard', Too much energy for owner's lifestyle, Separation anxiety and barking when left alone | Moving/housing changes, Lack of time for grooming and companionship, Behavioral issues (barking, housebreaking failures) |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | Medium | High |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | Medium | High |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Low | Moderate |
English Setter Social Traits
Low
Low - generally excellent with other dogs and enjoy pack life. Same-sex aggression is rare.
Maltese Social Traits
Moderate
Often doesn't realize small size - may challenge large dogs (Napoleon Complex)
Training
English Setter
- They are 'soft' dogs - harsh corrections or yelling will cause them to shut down or become fearful
- Recall training must be proofed with high distractions - a long line is recommended until reliability is 100%
- Use high-value treats to compete with bird distractions
Maltese
- Use treats and praise exclusively - harsh methods backfire
- Don't laugh when puppy growls at slippers - set boundaries early
- Consistency is key with housebreaking - frequent outings, crate training
English Setter Considerations
English Setters are intensely social 'velcro' dogs that bond deeply with their humans. Left alone for 8+ hours without conditioning or companionship, they frequently develop severe anxiety manifesting as destructive chewing, house soiling, and persistent howling.
Their predatory drive is all-consuming. On walks, they may become deaf to commands if they catch a scent or spot a bird. Off-leash reliability in unfenced areas is nearly impossible for the average owner.
Bored or under-exercised Setters are notorious for testing perimeter security. Their athleticism allows them to jump moderate fences, and digging instincts can compromise fence lines if they see prey on the other side.
Maltese Considerations
Bred for millennia solely for companionship, Maltese often panic when left alone. This manifests as destructive chewing, self-mutilation (licking paws raw), and relentless vocalization. Not suitable for 8-hour workdays without intervention.
Despite their size, Maltese are vigilant watchdogs. They will announce every delivery truck, neighbor, and leaf. In apartments, this high-pitched, persistent barking can lead to noise complaints and eviction notices.
The single most common frustration. Small bladders require frequent outings, and they can be sneaky about indoor accidents. Even adult Maltese may not be 100% reliable outside a crate or pen.
Because they are fragile, owners often tolerate behaviors (growling, snapping, resource guarding) that would be unacceptable in larger dogs. This can create a dog that rules the household.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | Risky - while some can live with cats if raised together, the instinct to chase is hardwired. Generally not safe. | Generally excellent - one of the most cat-compatible breeds |
| Small Mammals | Caution required - rabbits and hamsters trigger the chase instinct. Supervision mandatory. | Generally safe with supervision - not a terrier, low prey drive |
| Birds / Reptiles | Unsafe - birds are their ancestral prey. Will fixate on bird cages causing stress to both animals. | Use caution - fluttering birds may trigger chase instinct |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Arrested | Arrested/None |
| Biddability | High | High |
| Noise Sensitivity | Low | Medium |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | N/A | N/A |
English Setter: Predatory sequence is Orient -> Eye -> Stalk -> Chase -> Point. The 'Grab-Bite' and 'Kill-Bite' are usually inhibited, meaning they are less dangerous to prey than terriers, but the chase drive is just as strong. They want to please but are easily distracted by birds.
Maltese: Kill instinct largely bred out - may chase but rarely grab or kill. Cooperative partners who want to please, but also prioritize comfort. Leash reactivity stems from feeling vulnerable at small size.
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 7-12 | 4-10 |
| House Training | Medium | Hard |
| Crate Training | High | Medium |
| Adolescent Regression |
English Setter: Setter puppies combine high energy with a distractible hunting brain. House training can be slower than average (sensitive to surface textures). Very mouthy and prone to chewing furniture if bored. Around 8-10 months, they often 'forget' recall - this is when they're most likely to run off after a bird.
Maltese: Hypoglycemia risk in young puppies - monitor food intake vigilantly. Small bladder makes housebreaking a 4-6 month challenge minimum. Crate training essential but must be introduced gently.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 12 months | 10 months |
| Adolescence | 12-24 | 6-10 |
| Adult Years | 2-8 | 1-8 |
| Senior Onset | ~9 years | ~9 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-3 years | 1-4 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 61-69 cm | 21-25 cm |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Large | Extra Small |
| Lifespan | 11–13 years | N/A |
| Litter Size | 6-8 | 2-4 |
English Setter Coat
Maltese Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Locating and setting (pointing) game birds on English moors for net and gun hunters | Companionship for Roman matrons and royalty |
| Origin | England, 15th-17th century | Mediterranean (Malta), referenced by Aristotle 384-322 BC |
Breeding Details
| Detail | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | Low | 20-30% |
| Whelping Difficulty | Easy | Medium |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Low | Moderate |
Physical Risks
| Risk | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | High | Low |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Medium | Medium |
| Min Fence Height | 1.5m | 0.6m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Medium | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
English Setter Health Issues
Maltese Health Issues
English Setter Suggested Tests
- BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) test for deafness
- Hip Evaluation (OFA or PennHIP)
- Thyroid Evaluation
- Elbow Evaluation
Maltese Suggested Tests
- OFA Patella clearance
- OFA Cardiac clearance
- Serum Bile Acid test (liver shunt screening)
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Medium | Low |
| Cardiac Risk | Low | High |
| Neurological Risk | Low | Medium |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Medium | Low |
| Vet Burden Tier | Medium | Medium |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Low | Medium |
| Food Allergies | Grain sensitivities possible | Chicken, Grains |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Normal |
| Eye Care Needs | Low | High |
| Anal Gland Issues | Rare | Occasional |
Senior Care & Aging
English Setter Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis/joint stiffness
- Cancer (hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma)
- Hearing loss
- Mobility issues
Quality of life often remains good until late. Cancer and mobility issues are the common end-of-life factors. Some reach 14-15 years.
Maltese Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Dental disease escalation
- Heart murmurs (MVD onset)
- Cataracts/vision loss
- Arthritis requiring furniture stairs
Significant dental intervention often needed by age 9+. Heart murmurs common - regular cardiac monitoring essential.
Grooming & Care
English Setter
high maintenanceMaltese
high maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
English Setter Daily Life
Maltese Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Over 50lbs | Under 25lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | High | Low |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Good |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Low | Low |
| Therapy Dog | Medium | High |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Low | Low |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,000-1,500 | $2,000-4,000 |
| Initial Cost Range | $1,300–$2,000 | $2,000–$4,000 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $180–$275 | $100–$180 |
| Yearly Range | $2,160–$3,300 | $2,000–$2,500 |
| Food / Month | $75-125 | $25-40 |
| Insurance / Month | $40-70 | $40-70 |
| Grooming / Session | $65-100 | $50-100 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $600-960 | $400-800 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
English Setter Lifetime Cost
$25,000-45,000
Maltese Lifetime Cost
$25,000-40,000
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | English Setter | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Rare | Rare |
| Slobber Level | Moderate | None |
| Smell When Wet | Strong | Mild |
| Zoomies Frequency | Daily | Weekly |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | Medium | None |
English Setter Quirks
Setter Sprawl
Famous for sleeping in bizarre, contorted positions on furniture
Water Dripper
Loose 'flews' (lips) that drip water after drinking and leave slime on your pants after a nudge
Velcro Attachment
Will follow you to the bathroom - they need to be integrated into family life, not left as backyard dogs
The Off Switch
Indoors, a well-exercised Setter is a 'rug dog' - calm, quiet, and happy to sleep. Not hyperactive pacers like some herding breeds.
Maltese Quirks
Reverse Sneezing
A common, alarming honking gasp sound caused by excitement or allergies. Usually harmless but terrifying for new owners.
Tear Staining
Rusty streaks under eyes caused by porphyrins in tears. Requires constant cosmetic management with daily wiping and filtered water.
Picky Eating
Master manipulators who may refuse food to hold out for something better. Don't give in or you'll create a monster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Turn your dog into a brand deal.
Pet brands are looking for authentic creators — not celebrities. If you own a English Setter or Maltese, you can get free products, gear, and exclusive perks just for sharing your dog's life on Instagram.
No followers minimum · Free to join
Compare with Other Breeds
Compare English Setter with:
Based on comprehensive breed research data.