Italian GreyhoundVSMaltese

The Italian Greyhound is known for being affectionate, agile, playful, while the Maltese is typically described as gentle, playful, charming. These distinct personality traits mean each breed offers a different kind of companionship.

Both breeds share a similar playfulness level at 4/5, so you can expect comparable levels of fun and games from either one.

Noise-wise, the Maltese is more vocal with a barking level of 4/5, while the Italian Greyhound is quieter at 2/5. If you prefer a calmer household, the Italian Greyhound may be the better choice.

The Italian Greyhound is a small breed standing 33–38 cm (13–15 in) tall and weighing 3–5 kg (7–11 lbs). In comparison, the Maltese is a small breed at 18–25 cm (7–10 in) and 1–3 kg (2–7 lbs).

These two breeds are quite similar in size, so space and food requirements will be comparable for either choice.

The Italian Greyhound has a short coat available in gray, blue, fawn, red, cream, black, while the Maltese sports a long coat in white. Coat type significantly impacts grooming needs and shedding, which we cover below.

The Italian Greyhound has moderate energy (3/5) with moderate exercise needs (3/5). The Maltese has moderate energy (3/5) and low exercise needs (2/5).

The Italian Greyhound requires more daily activity to stay happy and healthy. Without enough exercise, they may develop destructive behaviors. The Maltese is more adaptable and can get by with shorter walks and play sessions.

Both breeds shed at a similar rate (1/5), so you can expect comparable amounts of loose fur from either one.

Grooming-wise, the Maltese needs more upkeep (5/5) than the Italian Greyhound (1/5). The Maltese's long coat demands regular professional grooming to stay in top shape.

Annual grooming costs average around $50 for the Italian Greyhound and $500 for the Maltese. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.

The Italian Greyhound has a lifespan of 14–15 years, while the Maltese lives 12–15 years. The Italian Greyhound tends to live longer on average.

Both breeds score 3/5 for health robustness, meaning they share similar overall health profiles.

Common health issues for the Italian Greyhound include leg fractures, patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, dental disease. The Maltese is prone to patellar luxation, portosystemic shunt, progressive retinal atrophy, dental disease. Regular vet checkups and health screenings are essential for both breeds.

Annual vet costs average $500 for the Italian Greyhound and $450 for the Maltese. Pet insurance is worth considering for either breed.

Both breeds are equally trainable at 3/5. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work well with either breed.

Both breeds match in intelligence at 4/5, so expect similar learning speeds and mental stimulation needs from either choice.

Regardless of which breed you choose, early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training are key to raising a well-behaved dog. Puppy classes are a great investment for either breed.

Both the Italian Greyhound and Maltese score 4/5 for intelligence, putting them on equal footing mentally. They'll learn commands at similar speeds and need comparable amounts of mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved.

Both breeds share a similar intelligence profile rooted in adaptive intelligence. Both are skilled at reading human emotions, adapting to new environments, and solving everyday problems on their own.

For either breed, mental enrichment is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle feeders, training sessions, scent work, and interactive toys keep intelligent dogs engaged and prevent the boredom that leads to chewing, digging, or excessive barking.

Both breeds score 2/5 with children, making them equally suitable for families. Either breed can be a wonderful addition to a household with kids.

If you have other pets, the Italian Greyhound tends to get along better with other dogs (4/5) than the Maltese (3/5). Proper introductions are still important, but the Italian Greyhound is naturally more sociable with canine companions.

The Maltese is more welcoming to strangers (4/5), while the Italian Greyhound tends to be more reserved (3/5). If you frequently have guests, the Maltese's sociable nature will make entertaining easier.

The initial purchase price for a Italian Greyhound ranges from $1,200–$3,000, while a Maltese typically costs $600–$2,500. The Italian Greyhound has a higher upfront cost.

Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $850 for the Italian Greyhound and $1,250 for the Maltese. The Maltese costs more annually, largely because of grooming expenses.

Monthly food costs run about $25 for the Italian Greyhound and $25 for the Maltese. Over a typical lifespan, the total cost of ownership can differ by thousands of dollars, so it's worth factoring in the long-term financial commitment.