Bedlington Terrier vs Maltese: full comparison
| Trait | Bedlington Terrier | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Very Small |
| Energy level | Medium | Medium |
| Trainability | Medium | Medium |
| Friendliness | High | High |
| Good with children | High | Medium |
| Grooming needs | Very High | Very High |
| Shedding | Very Low | Very Low |
| Barking | Low | High |
| Protectiveness | Medium | Medium |
| Adaptability | High | High |
| Typical lifespan | 14 years | 14 years |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes | Yes |
Key differences at a glance
- The Maltese has noticeably higher barking than the Bedlington Terrier.
Which should you choose?
Choose the Bedlington Terrier if you prefer a quieter dog or you want the more child-friendly companion.
Choose the Maltese if you simply prefer the breed — it's very closely matched with the Bedlington Terrier on temperament, size and care.
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Find your perfect match Try the free quizFrequently asked questions
- Is the Bedlington Terrier or the Maltese better for families with children?
- The Bedlington Terrier tends to be the more naturally child-friendly of the two, though both can do well in family homes with early socialisation.
- Which sheds more, the Bedlington Terrier or the Maltese?
- The Bedlington Terrier and Maltese shed a similar amount (very low).
- Which is easier to train, the Bedlington Terrier or the Maltese?
- Both breeds have comparable trainability. Consistency and positive reinforcement work well for each.