A side-by-side comparison of the Maltese and Pomeranian across size, temperament, grooming, family fit, and more.
Maltese
Pomeranian
Overall, Maltese wins more categories — but the right choice still depends on your family's specific needs.
Maltese
4 wins
Pomeranian
1 win
More family-friendly
Maltese edges ahead on kid-friendliness, affection, and trainability.
Lower maintenance
Maltese sheds less and needs less grooming overall.
Longer-lived
Pomeranian typically lives longer on average.
Calmer
These breeds have similar energy levels.
Quieter
Maltese tends to bark less.
More trainable
Maltese picks up commands and new behaviors more readily.
| Breed | Size | Weight | Height | Lifespan | Energy | Shedding | Grooming | Trainable | Affection | Barking | Kids | Dogs | Cats | Apartment | First-timers | Low-allergen |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 5–7 lb | 10 in | 12 yr | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||||||
| Small | 5–7 lb | 9–11 in | 12–15 yr | — | ✓ | — | ✓ | ✓ | — |
Dog Cost Calculator
What a dog really costs — upfront, monthly, and lifetime — adjusted for your country and dog size.
Dog Food Calculator
How much to feed your dog per day, from daily calorie needs (RER/MER) and your food’s calories.
Dog Age Calculator
Convert your dog’s age to human years using the modern, size-adjusted formula.
The Maltese and Pomeranian are both popular breeds, but they differ meaningfully in day-to-day life. The verdict above scores them on six key dimensions — use it as a starting point, then factor in your specific home, activity level, and family situation.
Overall, Maltese wins more categories — but the right choice still depends on your family's specific needs.