Russian Toy vs Maltese
Breed Compatibility
100% Compatible
Energy Level
Russian Toy: Regular Exercise0.6
Maltese: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Russian Toy: Agreeable0.6
Maltese: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Russian Toy: Weekly Brushing0.4
Maltese: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Russian Toy3/5
Maltese3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Russian Toy3/5
Maltese3/5
Good with Strangers
Russian Toy3/5
Maltese3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Russian Toy
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Dental Issues: Tooth decay and loss
Eye Problems: Progressive vision loss
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac abnormalities
Bone Fractures: Due to fragile frame
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
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
Russian Toy
Pros
Compact size
Minimal grooming needs
Affectionate nature
Good for apartments
Cons
Fragile build
Can be yappy
Not ideal with young children
Temperature 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
Russian Toy Fun Fact
Russian Toys are one of the smallest dog breeds, originally developed as both ratters and lap warmers!
Maltese Fun Fact
Ancient Romans called Maltese 'Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta,' believing they had healing powers.
Heritage & Purpose
Russian Toy
Origin:
Developed in Russia during the early 20th century as companion dogs for aristocracy, these tiny terriers served as ratters and fashionable lapdogs in urban households.
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
Russian Toy
Requires protection from cold weather, careful handling due to delicate build, and regular dental care. Early socialization helps prevent excessive timidity.
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
InfrequentShedding
InfrequentRelated Comparisons
Similar Size
Russian Toy vs Yorkshire Terrier →Similar Size
Russian Toy vs Japanese Chin →