Is the Maltese or the Russian Toy better for families with children?

The Maltese tends to be the more naturally child-friendly of the two, though both can do well in family homes with early socialization.

Which sheds more, the Maltese or the Russian Toy?

The Russian Toy sheds more than the Maltese. If shedding is a concern, the Maltese is the lower-maintenance choice.

Which is easier to train, the Maltese or the Russian Toy?

Both breeds have comparable trainability. Consistency and positive reinforcement work well for each.

Is Maltese or Russian Toy bigger?

Maltese and Russian Toy are a similar size (Very Small).

Which barks more, Maltese or Russian Toy?

Both bark a similar amount (high).

Which is better for apartment living, Maltese or Russian Toy?

For apartment or apartment living, Maltese and Russian Toy are an even match — either can work well.

Maltese vs Russian Toy: Which Needs Less Grooming?

Maltese vs Russian Toy: full comparison

Trait	Maltese	Russian Toy
Size	Very Small	Very Small
Energy level	Medium	Medium
Trainability	Medium	Medium
Friendliness	High	High
Good with children	Medium	Low
Grooming needs	Very High	Medium
Shedding	Very Low	Low
Barking	High	High
Protectiveness	Medium	Medium
Adaptability	High	High
Typical lifespan	14 years	14 years
Hypoallergenic	Yes	No

Key differences at a glance

The Maltese has noticeably higher grooming than the Russian Toy.

Size and living space

The Maltese is a toy-sized companion that takes up almost no room at home and is simple to transport. By comparison, the Russian Toy is a toy-sized companion that takes up almost no room at home and is simple to transport. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The Maltese thrives on daily walks plus a bit of active play. The Russian Toy thrives on daily walks plus a bit of active play. Their exercise needs are broadly the same, so this is unlikely to be a deciding factor.

Grooming and shedding

The Maltese demands daily coat care plus professional grooming to stay in shape and sheds almost nothing, so your sofa stays clear. The Russian Toy needs consistent brushing to keep the coat healthy and drops very little hair. The Maltese is also considered hypoallergenic, an advantage for allergy sufferers. If low upkeep matters to you, factor this in — the difference adds up over a dog's lifetime.

Temperament, training and family life

The Maltese is reasonably trainable with regular, positive sessions, is a vocal breed that sounds the alarm readily and gets on with children when raised around them. The Russian Toy is reasonably trainable with regular, positive sessions, is a vocal breed that sounds the alarm readily and manages with kids when introductions are handled slowly. On guarding instinct, Maltese will let you know someone is at the door without being aggressive, whereas Russian Toy will let you know someone is at the door without being aggressive.

Which is better for…

For apartment or apartment living, Maltese and Russian Toy are an even match — either can work well.
For families with young children, Maltese has the edge, being the more naturally child-friendly and sociable of the two.
For first-time dog owners, Maltese and Russian Toy are an even match — either can work well.
For being left alone during the workday, Russian Toy has the edge, coping better with independence and being quieter when unsupervised.
For allergy sufferers, Maltese has the edge, as it is hypoallergenic and lower-shedding.

Which should you choose?

Choose the Maltese if you need a hypoallergenic, low-dander coat, you want the more child-friendly companion, or you want less shedding around the home.

Choose the Russian Toy if you prefer lower grooming upkeep.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Maltese or the Russian Toy better for families with children?: The Maltese tends to be the more naturally child-friendly of the two, though both can do well in family homes with early socialization.
Which sheds more, the Maltese or the Russian Toy?: The Russian Toy sheds more than the Maltese. If shedding is a concern, the Maltese is the lower-maintenance choice.
Which is easier to train, the Maltese or the Russian Toy?: Both breeds have comparable trainability. Consistency and positive reinforcement work well for each.
Is Maltese or Russian Toy bigger?: Maltese and Russian Toy are a similar size (Very Small).
Which barks more, Maltese or Russian Toy?: Both bark a similar amount (high).
Which is better for apartment living, Maltese or Russian Toy?: For apartment or apartment living, Maltese and Russian Toy are an even match — either can work well.

Maltese vs Russian Toy