Compare breeds
Maltese vs Yorkshire Terrier
Maltese
Long
Yorkshire Terrier
Long
Choose the Maltese if you want…
- a home with other pets
- a quieter companion
- a calmer companion
Choose the Yorkshire Terrier if you want…
- an active companion for long walks and play
Side by side
| Trait | Maltese | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Toy | Toy |
| Weight | 2–4 kg (4–9 lb) | 2–3.5 kg (4–8 lb) |
| Height | 20–25 cm (8–10 in) | 18–23 cm (7–9 in) |
| Life span | 12–15 years | 13–16 years |
| Origin | Malta (Mediterranean) | England |
| Energy | 2/5 | 3/5 |
| Trainability | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Good with children | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Good with other pets | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Suits a flat | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Shedding | 1/5 | 1/5 |
| Grooming needs | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 3/5 | 4/5 |
Quick answers
Which lives longer, the Maltese or the Yorkshire Terrier?
The Yorkshire Terrier, on average. Maltese: 12–15 years; Yorkshire Terrier: 13–16 years.
Is the Maltese or the Yorkshire Terrier better with children?
We rate them the same. Both still need supervision with young children.
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Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts