What is the difference between a Labrador Retriever and a Maltese?

The Labrador Retriever is 55–80 lbs, 21–25 in sized while the Maltese is 4–7 lbs, 7–9 in sized. They differ in size (55–80 lbs, 21–25 in vs 4–7 lbs, 7–9 in), lifespan (10–12 years vs 12–15 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Labrador Retriever or Maltese?

Labrador Retriever is generally good with kids. Maltese is not typically good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Labrador Retriever or Maltese?

The Labrador Retriever has a lifespan of 10–12 years while the Maltese has a lifespan of 12–15 years.

Labrador Retriever vs Maltese — Breed Comparison

About the Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever has been America's most popular dog breed for over three decades — and for good reason. Originally bred in Newfoundland, Canada, during the early 19th century to help fishermen haul nets and retrieve catch from the icy North Atlantic, the breed was refined in England into the versatile sporting dog we know today. Labs stand 21.5–24.5 inches tall and weigh 55–80 pounds, with a short, dense, water-resistant double coat in three recognized colors: black, yellow (ranging from fox-red to pale cream), and chocolate.

Temperament & Personality

Labrador Retrievers are friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited — they greet nearly every person, dog, and situation with unbridled enthusiasm and a wagging tail. They are exceptionally patient and gentle with children, making them one of the most trusted family dogs in the world. Labs are also remarkably intelligent and eager to please, which is why they dominate as guide dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, therapy dogs, and detection dogs across dozens of working disciplines.

Pros

Outstanding family dog — patient, gentle, and naturally good with children of all ages
Highly trainable and eager to please — consistently ranks among the most obedient breeds
Versatile and adaptable — equally at home on the couch, in the field, or in the water
Friendly and social temperament — gets along well with other dogs, cats, and strangers

Cons

Heavy shedding year-round with major seasonal blowouts — not suited for allergy sufferers
Prone to obesity — Labs are notoriously food-motivated and will eat anything not locked away
High energy in the first 2–3 years — requires substantial daily exercise to prevent destructive behavior
Susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia, exercise-induced collapse, and progressive retinal atrophy

There's a reason the Lab is the world's favorite dog — discover adoptable Labrador Retrievers on Puplister today.

About the Maltese

The Maltese is one of the most ancient toy breeds — pampered by royalty and aristocrats across the Mediterranean for at least 2,000 years, with origins possibly linked to the island of Malta, though their exact birthplace remains debated by historians. Standing 7–9 inches tall and weighing just 4–7 pounds, these delicate dogs are draped in a stunning floor-length coat of pure, silky white hair that flows like a mantle — completely lacking an undercoat, which gives the hair its signature straight, silky texture. Their dark, round eyes and black button nose set against the brilliant white coat create a face of undeniable charm.

Temperament & Personality

Maltese are lively, playful, and remarkably fearless for their tiny size — they carry themselves with an aristocratic confidence that has charmed dog lovers for millennia. They are deeply devoted to their owners and thrive on attention, often developing a charming repertoire of tricks and antics to keep the spotlight on themselves. While generally friendly, they can be suspicious of strangers and intolerant of rough handling, making them better suited to households with older children or adults.

Pros

Hypoallergenic coat — no undercoat means minimal shedding and reduced allergen production
Compact size and low exercise needs — thrives in apartments and small living spaces
Long lifespan of 12–15 years with many individuals living well beyond that
Playful and entertaining personality without the hyperactivity of many small breeds

Cons

Luxurious white coat requires daily brushing, frequent baths, and professional grooming to prevent tangles and staining
Prone to tear staining — reddish-brown streaks below the eyes require constant maintenance
Susceptible to dental disease, patellar luxation, and liver shunt — a congenital condition common in the breed
Can develop small dog syndrome with excessive barking and snappiness if overindulged and under-trained

A Maltese could bring centuries of royal companionship into your home — explore adoptable Maltese dogs on Puplister.

Labrador Retriever vs Maltese