Kuvasz vs. Maltese: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Kuvasz or Maltese?

4 / 5

Kuvasz has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

3 / 5

Maltese has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are Kuvaszs or Malteses hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the Kuvasz is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Malteses are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Kuvasz and Maltese dogs?

Clownish
Intelligent
Patient
Independent
Loyal
Protective
Brave
Fearless
Self-Confident
Faithful
Dependable

Active
Easygoing
Intelligent
Responsive
Docile
Gentle
Playful
Sweet
Tempered

Shedding Level

Do Kuvaszs shed more than Malteses, or which breed sheds more, Kuvaszs or Malteses?

4 / 5

Kuvaszs are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

1 / 5

Malteses shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Kuvasz or Maltese?

5 / 5

Choose a Kuvasz if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

3 / 5

Malteses are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Origin

What is the origin of Kuvasz and Maltese dog breeds?

Tibet

Malta

Ancestry

What are the origins of Kuvasz and Maltese breeds?

shepherding dog

terrier

Date of Birth

When were Kuvasz and Maltese breeds first developed?

1300s

ancient times

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Kuvasz and Maltese?

Working (AKC:1931)
Guardian Dogs (UKC)

Toy (AKC:1888)
Companion Breed & Show Breed (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Kuvasz and Maltese dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Kuvasz and Maltese?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Kuvasz and Maltese breeds?

White

White

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Kuvasz and Maltese breeds?

3 / 5

Kuvaszs have medium-length coats.

5 / 5

Malteses are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Kuvasz and Maltese?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Kuvasz and Maltese?

Wavy

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Kuvasz and Maltese?

A Kuvasz can have a litter of 10-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Maltese can have a litter of 15-18 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

3 / 5

Kuvaszs have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

5 / 5

Malteses are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Kuvasz and Maltese, which breed is more prone to health problems?

4 / 5

Kuvaszs typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

3 / 5

While the Maltese breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Kuvasz and Maltese breeds?

Hip Dysplasia
Congenital Heart Defect

Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Obesity

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Kuvasz and Maltese?

Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy
Osteochondritis Dissecans

Mono/Bilateral Cryptorchidism
Hydrocephalus
Dental Disease
Portosystemic Shunt
Shaker Dog Syndrome

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Kuvasz and Maltese breeds?

Hip
Heart
Skeletal
X-Rays
Physical Examination

Eye
Knee
Liver Ultrasound
CT Scan
Dental Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Kuvaszs and Malteses compare?

4 / 5

Kuvaszs' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

3 / 5

Malteses are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Kuvasz vs Maltese social needs comparison

3 / 5

Kuvasz has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

5 / 5

Maltese has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Exercise Needed

Kuvasz vs Maltese exercise need comparison.

5 / 5

Kuvaszs need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

1 / 5

Malteses require minimal physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Kuvasz or Maltese?

2 / 5

Kuvaszs sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

3 / 5

Malteses have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Kuvasz or Maltese?

3 / 5

Kuvasz is an average drooler, monitor for excessive drooling which may indicate health issues.

1 / 5

Maltese minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Kuvaszs or Malteses bark more/less frequently?

3 / 5

Kuvaszs bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

5 / 5

Maltese dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Territorial

Is the Kuvasz or Maltese a better guard dog?

5 / 5

Kuvasz dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

4 / 5

Maltese dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Kuvasz vs Maltese?

1 / 5

3 / 5

Roaming urge

Kuvasz vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

1 / 5

Prey Drive

Kuvasz or Maltese - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

1 / 5

4 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Kuvaszs or Malteses?

Both Kuvasz and Maltese are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

3 / 5

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Kuvasz or Maltese walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Kuvasz, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Maltese, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Kuvaszs or Malteses require more exercise?

Both Kuvasz and Maltese typically require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Kuvaszs or Malteses?

1 / 5

The Kuvasz is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

3 / 5

The Maltese requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Kuvasz and Maltese dogs?

Kuvasz should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Ideally, Maltese should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Kuvaszs and Malteses?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Kuvasz or Maltese in cups?

For an average 100-115 pound (45 - 52 kg) Kuvasz feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 4-7 pound (2 - 3 kg) Maltese feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Kuvasz or Maltese?

The average cost of a Kuvasz is somewhere $2.80 - $3.20 per day.

The average cost of a Maltese is somewhere $1.40 - $1.80 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Kuvasz or Maltese?

The average per month expenses of a Kuvasz is between $84 - $95. This makes an average of $1008 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Maltese is between $42 - $53. This makes an average of $504 - $636 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Kuvaszs vs Malteses

3 / 5

Kuvaszs are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

2 / 5

Maltese has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do Kuvasz and Maltese compare in sensitivity?

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Kuvasz vs Maltese?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Kuvasz or Maltese?

1 / 5

The Kuvasz is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.

5 / 5

Malteses make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Kuvaszs or Malteses have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Kuvasz and Maltese are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Kuvasz or Maltese?

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Kuvasz or Maltese breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

3 / 5

Kuvaszs are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

5 / 5

Malteses are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Kuvasz or Maltese?

3 / 5

Kuvaszs are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

5 / 5

Malteses are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

Pet friendly

How do Kuvasz or Maltese dogs interact with other pets?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Kuvasz or Maltese?

2 / 5

Kuvaszs are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

5 / 5

Malteses are highly friendly around strangers.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Kuvasz and Maltese?

3 / 5

Kuvasz and Maltese have an average level of playfulness. Like other dogs, they enjoy playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Kuvaszs and Malteses compare?

2 / 5

Kuvaszs may require more time and patience to learn commands, but with consistency, they can be trained.

3 / 5

Malteses are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.