Maltese vs Yorkshire 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
Yorkshire Terrier
Also known as: Yorkie, Yorkshire
The Yorkshire Terrier is often mischaracterized as a mere lapdog accessory. In reality, this is a **terrier** first and a companion second. While affectionate and portable, their genetic heritage as vermin exterminators in textile mills drives a personality that is tenacious, vocal, and surprisingly intense. Often called 'the Yorkie', this breed packs big-dog attitude into a tiny frame.
Extra Small
Medium
13.56 yrs
17-20 cm
Up to 3.2kg (often larger in pet lines: 4-5kg) kg
Quick Comparison
| Trait | Maltese | Yorkshire 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 | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Extra Small | Extra Small |
| Energy Level | Medium | Medium |
| Grooming | High | High |
| Trainability | Moderate | Moderate |
| Barking Level | High | High |
| Shedding Level | Low | Low |
| Chew strength | Light | Light |
| Housing | Apartment | Apartment |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Beginner (with grooming commitment) | Intermediate |
| 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. | Diligent owner with patience for house training and consistent grooming routine. Works from home or can provide frequent bathroom breaks. Understands this is a high-maintenance dog in a small 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
Yorkshire Terrier Dealbreakers
- Families with toddlers - fragility makes this unsafe
- Full-time workers away 8+ hours - bladder cannot hold it
- Anyone wanting a 'low maintenance' dog
- Noise-sensitive neighbors in apartments
Surrender Risk
| Factor | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | Medium | Medium |
| Primary Reasons | Moving/housing changes, Lack of time for grooming and companionship, Behavioral issues (barking, housebreaking failures) | It won't stop peeing in the house (house training failure), It snapped at the baby (resource guarding/fear), The barking is driving neighbors crazy |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | High | High |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | High | Medium |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Moderate | Moderate |
Maltese Social Traits
Moderate
Often doesn't realize small size - may challenge large dogs (Napoleon Complex)
Yorkshire Terrier Social Traits
High - naturally suspicious, early socialization required to prevent fear biting
Often reactive to larger dogs - usually fear-based, not dominance
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
Yorkshire Terrier
- Keep sessions SHORT (5 minutes max) - they bore easily
- High-value treats essential - they won't work just to please you
- Indoor pee pad system may be necessary permanent solution
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.
Yorkshire Terrier Considerations
This is the single most cited failure mode for the breed. Due to tiny bladders and terrier stubbornness, Yorkies are notoriously difficult to housebreak. Many owners report accidents persisting well into adulthood, and some never become 100% reliable without indoor pads.
The 'watchdog' trait is hardwired. They will announce every delivery driver, neighbor, and squirrel with sharp, high-pitched barking. This can lead to neighbor complaints and eviction notices in apartments.
Yorkies often don't perceive their small size, leading to 'Napoleonic' aggression toward much larger dogs. This is usually fear-based reactivity, not actual courage, but can be dangerous.
A toddler falling on a Yorkie can kill the dog. They can be fatally injured by being dropped, stepped on, or sat upon. Not suitable for homes with young children.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | Generally excellent - one of the most cat-compatible breeds | Generally safe if raised together - but may harass a cat that runs |
| Small Mammals | Generally safe with supervision - not a terrier, low prey drive | UNSAFE - the ratting instinct is alive. Dangerous to hamsters, gerbils, birds. |
| Birds / Reptiles | Use caution - fluttering birds may trigger chase instinct | Unsafe - predatory drift will trigger chase/kill |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Arrested/None | Full |
| Biddability | High | Moderate |
| Noise Sensitivity | Medium | Medium |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | N/A | N/A |
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.
Yorkshire Terrier: Unlike a Cavalier where the sequence is eroded, the Yorkie retains the Kill-Bite part of the sequence for small vermin. High intelligence but asks 'Why?' before 'How high?' - less eager to please than a Poodle.
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 4-10 | 6-12 |
| House Training | Hard | Very Hard |
| 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.
Yorkshire Terrier: Unlike larger breeds, you cannot simply 'crate and wait' - their bladders are too small. Expect accidents for the first year. The combination of extreme fragility, house training difficulty, and hypoglycemia risks makes Yorkie puppies very demanding.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 10 months | 10 months |
| Adolescence | 6-10 | 4-10 |
| Adult Years | 1-8 | 1.5-8 |
| Senior Onset | ~9 years | ~9 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-4 years | 1-4 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 21-25 cm | 17-20 cm |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Extra Small | Extra Small |
| Lifespan | N/A | 14 years |
| Litter Size | 2-4 | 2-4 |
Maltese Coat
Yorkshire Terrier Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Companionship for Roman matrons and royalty | Vermin extermination in textile mills and coal mines |
| Origin | Mediterranean (Malta), referenced by Aristotle 384-322 BC | Yorkshire, England, mid-19th century |
Breeding Details
| Detail | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | 20-30% | High |
| Whelping Difficulty | Medium | Hard |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Moderate | Higher than average - fading puppy syndrome and hypoglycemia |
Physical Risks
| Risk | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | Low | Low |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Medium | Medium |
| Min Fence Height | 0.6m | 0.9m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Low | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
Maltese Health Issues
Yorkshire Terrier Health Issues
Maltese Suggested Tests
- OFA Patella clearance
- OFA Cardiac clearance
- Serum Bile Acid test (liver shunt screening)
Yorkshire Terrier Suggested Tests
- Bile Acid Test (for Liver Shunt) - critical for puppies
- OFA Patella evaluation for breeding stock
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Low | Low |
| Cardiac Risk | High | Low |
| Neurological Risk | Medium | Low |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Low | Low |
| Vet Burden Tier | Medium | Medium-High |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Medium | Medium |
| Food Allergies | Chicken, Grains | Chicken, Grains |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Fast |
| Eye Care Needs | High | Medium |
| Anal Gland Issues | Occasional | Common - scooting indicates need for expression |
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.
Yorkshire Terrier Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Cognitive dysfunction (dementia)
- Blindness (cataracts)
- Kidney failure
- Dental disease progression
Often sharp decline after 12 years. Long-lived breed (median 13.56 years) but quality of life compromised by dental and cognitive issues.
Grooming & Care
Maltese
high maintenanceYorkshire Terrier
high maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
Maltese Daily Life
Yorkshire Terrier Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Under 25lbs | Under 25lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | Low | Low |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Good |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Low | Low |
| Therapy Dog | High | Medium |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Low | Low |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $2,000-4,000 | $1,500-3,000 |
| Initial Cost Range | $2,000–$4,000 | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $100–$180 | $100–$200 |
| Yearly Range | $2,000–$2,500 | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Food / Month | $25-40 | $20-40 |
| Insurance / Month | $40-70 | $35-60 |
| Grooming / Session | $50-100 | $50-100 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $400-800 | $300-600 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
Maltese Lifetime Cost
$25,000-40,000
Yorkshire Terrier Lifetime Cost
$15,000-30,000
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Rare | Rare |
| Slobber Level | None | None |
| Smell When Wet | Mild | None - hair doesn't hold oil/odor like double-coated breeds |
| Zoomies Frequency | Weekly | Weekly |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | None | Low-Medium |
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.
Yorkshire Terrier Quirks
Reverse Sneezing
A spasm of the throat/soft palate that sounds like a goose honking. Scary for owners but usually harmless.
The Yorkie Shake
Will violently shake toys - this is the motor pattern for breaking a rat's neck, their genetic heritage
Weather Diva
Often refuses to go outside in rain or cold - may require indoor pee pad system year-round
Velcro Mode
Will follow you to the bathroom, sit on your feet while you cook, and attempt to sleep on your head
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 Yorkshire Terrier, 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 Yorkshire Terrier with:
Based on comprehensive breed research data.