Maltese vs Scottish Terrier
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
Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier, affectionately known as the \\\"Scottie,\\\" is a small, sturdy breed recognized for its distinctive wiry coat, bushy eyebrows, and dignified demeanor. Known for their independence and spirited nature, Scotties are loyal companions with a rich history as tenacious hunters.
Medium
Medium
10-12 years yrs
N/A
Quick Comparison
| Trait | Maltese | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Extra Small | Medium |
| Energy Level | Medium | Medium |
| Grooming | High | High |
| Trainability | Moderate | challenging |
| Barking Level | High | High |
| Shedding Level | Low | Low |
| Chew strength | Light | Light |
| Housing | Apartment | Apartment |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | Maltese | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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 Scottish Terrier. |
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
Scottish Terrier Dealbreakers
- Cannot meet 45-60 min daily exercise
- Cannot commit to grooming needs
Surrender Risk
| Factor | Maltese | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | Maltese | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | High | High |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | High | Low |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | Maltese | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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)
Scottish Terrier Social Traits
Moderate
Selective
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
Scottish Terrier
- ** Positive reinforcement is the only viable path. Harsh corrections will cause a Scottie to shut down or retaliate.
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.
Scottish Terrier Considerations
Unlike the Golden Retriever or Labrador, the Scottie does not live to please you. They are famously independent thinkers. If you call a Scottie, they may consider the request, evaluate what’s in it for them, and then decide whether to comply. This is often misinterpreted as "stubbornness," but it is actually a feature of a breed designed to work alone underground without human direction.
Scotties are naturally suspicious of strangers and other dogs. They have a low tolerance for handling they deem disrespectful, which can include hugging, ear pulling, or sudden movements. This makes them a (under 8-10 years old). They are quick to correct perceived rudeness with a snap.
Many Scotties, particularly males, can be intolerant of other dogs of the same sex. This aggression often emerges at social maturity (18-24 months) and can escalate to serious fighting if not managed.
Their prey drive is not a game; it is a kill instinct. They cannot be trusted around small pets like hamsters, rabbits, or birds.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | Maltese | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Scottish Terrier: Scottish Terrier puppies require consistent training and patience.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | Maltese | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 21-25 cm | N/A |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Extra Small | Medium |
| Lifespan | N/A | 10–12 years |
| Litter Size | 2-4 | 4-8 |
Maltese Coat
Scottish Terrier Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | Maltese | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Companionship for Roman matrons and royalty | Developed in the Scottish Highlands, the Scottie was bred to hunt badger, fox, and otter |
| Origin | Mediterranean (Malta), referenced by Aristotle 384-322 BC | N/A |
Breeding Details
| Detail | Maltese | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | 20-30% | Varies |
| Whelping Difficulty | Medium | Medium |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Moderate | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | Maltese | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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
Scottish Terrier Health Issues
Maltese Suggested Tests
- OFA Patella clearance
- OFA Cardiac clearance
- Serum Bile Acid test (liver shunt screening)
Scottish Terrier Suggested Tests
- Genetic Testing for vWD and CMO
- Annual or bi-annual ultrasound screening for bladder tumors starting at age 7-8
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | Maltese | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Medium | Low |
| Food Allergies | Chicken, Grains |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | Maltese | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Scottish Terrier Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis
- Vision decline
- Cognitive changes
Senior care varies by individual health.
Grooming & Care
Maltese
high maintenanceScottish Terrier
high maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
Maltese Daily Life
Scottish Terrier Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | Maltese | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Under 25lbs | Under 50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | Maltese | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | Low | Medium |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | Maltese | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Good |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | Maltese | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $100–$180 | $80–$160 |
| Yearly Range | $2,000–$2,500 | $960–$1,920 |
| Food / Month | $25-40 | N/A |
| Insurance / Month | $40-70 | N/A |
| Grooming / Session | $50-100 | $60-120 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $400-800 | N/A |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
Maltese Lifetime Cost
$25,000-40,000
Scottish Terrier Lifetime Cost
N/A
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | Maltese | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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
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