Border Collie vs Maltese
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Border Collie: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Maltese: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Border Collie: Eager to Please1.0
Maltese: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Border Collie: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Maltese: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Border Collie3/5
Maltese3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Border Collie3/5
Maltese3/5
Good with Strangers
Border Collie4/5
Maltese3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Border Collie
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
CEA: Eye development disorder
MDR1: Drug sensitivity gene
TNS: Neurological condition
CL: Neurological disorder
Epilepsy: Seizure disorder
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
Border Collie
Pros
Extremely intelligent
Highly trainable
Athletic and agile
Loyal and devoted
Excellent working dog
Cons
Requires extensive exercise
May be too intense for novice owners
Strong herding instinct
Needs constant mental stimulation
Can be overly sensitive
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
Border Collie Fun Fact
Border Collies can learn to recognize over 1,000 words and can understand complex multi-step commands.
Maltese Fun Fact
Ancient Romans called Maltese 'Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta,' believing they had healing powers.
Heritage & Purpose
Border Collie
Origin:
Developed in the border country between Scotland and England during the 1700s, these dogs revolutionized sheep herding with their distinctive 'eye' and precise control of livestock.
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
Border Collie
Requires extensive daily exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training. Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Early socialization crucial.
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
SeasonalShedding
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