West Highland White Terrier vs Maltese
Breed Compatibility
87% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Maltese: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Maltese: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Maltese: Daily Brushing0.8
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Maltese3/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Maltese3/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Maltese3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
West Highland White Terrier
Craniomandibular Osteopathy: Jaw bone growth
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Addison's Disease: Hormone deficiency
White Shaker Syndrome: Tremor condition
Pulmonary Fibrosis: Lung tissue scarring
Skin Allergies: Dermatological 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
West Highland White Terrier
Pros
Adaptable to different living situations
Good with families
Low-shedding coat
Alert watchdog
Cons
Can be stubborn
Regular grooming required
May chase small animals
Can be vocal
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
West Highland White Terrier Fun Fact
Their white coat was specifically bred after a farmer accidentally shot his reddish-brown terrier, mistaking it for a fox!
Maltese Fun Fact
Ancient Romans called Maltese 'Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta,' believing they had healing powers.
Heritage & Purpose
West Highland White Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Scotland during the 1800s, these terriers were bred to hunt rats, foxes, and other vermin in the Scottish Highlands, with their white coat making them easily distinguishable from prey.
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
West Highland White Terrier
Regular grooming is essential for their double coat. They need consistent training to manage terrier stubbornness and require proper socialization to prevent small animal chasing.
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.