Maltese vs Norwegian Elkhound
A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.
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
Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Moose Dog, also known as the Norwegian Elkhound, is a robust and versatile hunting breed known for its keen tracking abilities, particularly in hunting large game like moose. With its wolf-like appearance, dense coat, and loyal temperament, this breed is not only a skilled hunter but also a devoted companion.
Large
High
12-15 years yrs
N/A
Quick Comparison
| Trait | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Extra Small | Large |
| Energy Level | Medium | High |
| Grooming | High | High |
| Trainability | Moderate | challenging |
| Barking Level | High | High |
| Shedding Level | Low | High |
| Chew strength | Light | Moderate |
| Housing | Apartment | Yard |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Beginner (with grooming commitment) | Experienced |
| First-Time Owner | ||
| Ideal Owner | 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. | Active individual or family who can provide adequate exercise and training for a Norwegian Elkhound. |
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
Norwegian Elkhound Dealbreakers
- Cannot meet 60-90 min daily exercise
- Cannot tolerate heavy shedding
Surrender Risk
| Factor | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | Medium | Medium |
| Primary Reasons | Moving/housing changes, Lack of time for grooming and companionship, Behavioral issues (barking, housebreaking failures) | Underestimated exercise needs, Behavioral challenges, Cost of care |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | High | High |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | High | Low |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Moderate | Low |
Maltese Social Traits
Moderate
Often doesn't realize small size - may challenge large dogs (Napoleon Complex)
Norwegian Elkhound Social Traits
Moderate
Generally friendly
Training
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
Norwegian Elkhound
- ** Positive reinforcement is mandatory. Harsh methods cause them to shut down or become defensive.
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.
Norwegian Elkhound Considerations
This breed was genetically engineered to bark. In their native Norway, their job is to track moose (elk) and hold them at bay by barking rhythmically and continuously until the hunter arrives. This is not a trait that can be "trained out" completely. They will bark at squirrels, cars, delivery drivers, and leaves blowing in the wind. If you live in a noise-restricted community or share walls with neighbors, this breed is a.
Unlike a Golden Retriever that asks, "What can I do for you?", the Elkhound asks, "What's in it for me?" They are independent problem solvers. This manifests as "stubbornness" during training. They will often weigh the value of a treat against the interest of a scent and choose the scent.
These dogs are trackers. If they catch a scent, their ears turn off, and they will follow it for miles. They cannot be trusted off-leash in unfenced areas. Their recall is notoriously unreliable when prey drive is activated.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | Generally excellent - one of the most cat-compatible breeds | Caution - may chase |
| Small Mammals | Generally safe with supervision - not a terrier, low prey drive | Supervision required |
| Birds / Reptiles | Use caution - fluttering birds may trigger chase instinct | Caution advised |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Arrested/None | Medium |
| Biddability | High | Low |
| Noise Sensitivity | Medium | Low |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | N/A | 18 months |
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 | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 4-10 | 6-18 |
| House Training | Hard | Moderate |
| Crate Training | Medium | Medium |
| Adolescent Regression |
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.
Norwegian Elkhound: Norwegian Elkhound puppies require consistent training and patience.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 10 months | 12 months |
| Adolescence | 6-10 | 6-18 |
| Adult Years | 1-8 | 2-8 |
| Senior Onset | ~9 years | ~8 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-4 years | 1-3 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 21-25 cm | N/A |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Extra Small | Large |
| Lifespan | N/A | 12–15 years |
| Litter Size | 2-4 | 4-8 |
Maltese Coat
Norwegian Elkhound Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Companionship for Roman matrons and royalty | conformity to physical standards; may have slightly lower drive but still retain the barking instinc |
| Origin | Mediterranean (Malta), referenced by Aristotle 384-322 BC | N/A |
Breeding Details
| Detail | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | 20-30% | Varies |
| Whelping Difficulty | Medium | Medium |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Moderate | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | Low | Low |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Medium | Low |
| Min Fence Height | 0.6m | 1.5m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Low | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
Maltese Health Issues
Norwegian Elkhound Health Issues
Maltese Suggested Tests
- OFA Patella clearance
- OFA Cardiac clearance
- Serum Bile Acid test (liver shunt screening)
Norwegian Elkhound Suggested Tests
- OFA Hips
- OFA Eyes (annually)
- Fanconi urine screen
- Thyroid panel
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Low | Medium |
| Cardiac Risk | High | Low |
| Neurological Risk | Medium | Low |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Low | Low |
| Vet Burden Tier | Medium | Medium |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Medium | Low |
| Food Allergies | Chicken, Grains |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Normal |
| Eye Care Needs | High | Low |
| Anal Gland Issues | Occasional | Occasional |
Senior Care & Aging
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.
Norwegian Elkhound Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis
- Vision decline
- Cognitive changes
Senior care varies by individual health.
Grooming & Care
Maltese
high maintenanceNorwegian Elkhound
high maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
Maltese Daily Life
Norwegian Elkhound Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Under 25lbs | Under 50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | Low | Medium |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Good |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Low | Low |
| Therapy Dog | High | Low |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Low | Low |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $2,000-4,000 | N/A |
| Initial Cost Range | $2,000–$4,000 | $1,000–$2,500 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $100–$180 | $100–$160 |
| Yearly Range | $2,000–$2,500 | $1,200–$1,920 |
| Food / Month | $25-40 | $60-90 |
| Insurance / Month | $40-70 | $40-70 |
| Grooming / Session | $50-100 | $0-50 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $400-800 | $500-800 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
Maltese Lifetime Cost
$25,000-40,000
Norwegian Elkhound Lifetime Cost
N/A
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | Maltese | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Rare | Occasional |
| Slobber Level | None | Low |
| Smell When Wet | Mild | Moderate |
| Zoomies Frequency | Weekly | Occasional |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | None | Low |
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 Maltese or Norwegian Elkhound, 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 Maltese with:
Compare Norwegian Elkhound with:
Based on comprehensive breed research data.