Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds — temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.
The Lhasa Apso (5–8 kg, 12–15 years) and the Maltese (3–4 kg, 12–15 years) sit in different — or sometimes overlapping — corners of dog ownership. Here's how they really compare for an everyday Irish or UK family.
Energy levels are well-matched between the Lhasa Apso and Maltese — both need similar daily exercise.
Insurance premiums for breeds with brachycephalic, joint or cancer predispositions run 20–40% above average — check before you commit. We have a free quote calculator here.
 Lhasa Apso |
 Maltese |
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Non-Sporting | Toy |
| Origin | Tibet | Malta / Mediterranean |
| Weight | 5–8 kg | 3–4 kg |
| Height | 25–28 cm | 20–25 cm |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years | 12–15 years |
| Energy level | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Good with kids | ||
| Good with other pets | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Watchdog instinct | ||
| Novice-owner OK |
Lhasa ApsoAlert, watchful, affectionate with family, suspicious of strangers. Lhasas are independent and can be stubborn.
30–45 minutes of daily walking plus indoor play.
Floor-length coat needs daily brushing if kept long; most owners get a "puppy clip" every 4–6 weeks. Eyes need daily wiping.
Cherry eye. Patellar luxation. Hip dysplasia. Renal dysplasia. Brachycephalic features (mild).
Full Lhasa Apso profile →
MalteseAffectionate, fearless, bonded, sometimes barky. Maltese form intense bonds with one or two people and can suffer separation anxiety.
20–30 minutes of gentle walking plus indoor play. Easy to over-exercise.
Daily brushing if kept long — the coat tangles and mats easily. Most pet owners choose a "puppy cut" every 6 weeks. Tear staining around eyes is very common.
Patellar luxation. Liver shunts. Hypoglycaemia (puppies). Dental disease. Tracheal collapse — always use a harness, never a collar.
Full Maltese profile →Apartment dwellers, retirees, families with older children.
Apartment dwellers, retirees, allergy-sensitive owners, single-pet households.
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