Australian Kelpie vs Maltese
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Kelpie: Energetic0.8
Maltese: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Australian Kelpie: Eager to Please1.0
Maltese: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Kelpie: Weekly Brushing0.4
Maltese: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Kelpie3/5
Maltese3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Kelpie3/5
Maltese3/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Kelpie3/5
Maltese3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Australian Kelpie
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
PRA: Progressive eye condition
CEA: Collie eye anomaly concerns
Cryptorchidism: Testicle retention
Cerebellar Abiotrophy: Brain disorder
Luxating Patella: Kneecap issues
Maltese
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
White Dog Shaker Syndrome: Tremors
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Portosystemic Shunt: Liver condition
Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar issues
Dental Disease: Tooth/gum problems
Pros & Cons Comparison
Australian Kelpie
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent work ethic
Low maintenance coat
Exceptional agility
Strong herding instincts
Cons
Requires extensive exercise
Can be too intense for novice owners
May herd children and pets
Needs constant mental stimulation
Can be stubborn if not properly trained
Maltese
Pros
Minimal shedding
Excellent companion dog
Good for apartments
Adaptable to different lifestyles
Cons
High grooming needs
Can be yappy
Prone to dental issues
Delicate physical structure
Australian Kelpie Fun Fact
Kelpies can cover up to 50 kilometers in a day while working, demonstrating their legendary endurance.
Maltese Fun Fact
Ancient Romans called Maltese 'Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta,' believing they had healing powers.
Heritage & Purpose
Australian Kelpie
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1800s for sheep herding in harsh outback conditions. Renowned for their exceptional stamina and working abilities in challenging terrain.
Maltese
Origin:
Refined in the Mediterranean region during ancient times, Maltese served as cherished companions to nobility across Europe, prized for their elegant appearance and affectionate nature.
Special Considerations
Australian Kelpie
Needs extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular grooming during shedding seasons. Early training and socialization essential for managing herding instincts.
Maltese
Daily coat maintenance prevents matting, regular dental care is essential, and protection from extreme temperatures is necessary. Careful handling due to small size and delicate structure.
Shedding
RegularlyShedding
InfrequentRelated Comparisons
Similar Size
Australian Kelpie vs Yorkshire Terrier →Similar Size
Australian Kelpie vs Japanese Chin →