MalteseVSMiniature Schnauzer

The Maltese is known for being gentle, playful, charming, while the Miniature Schnauzer is typically described as friendly, smart, obedient. 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.

The Maltese is a small breed standing 18–25 cm (7–10 in) tall and weighing 1–3 kg (2–7 lbs). In comparison, the Miniature Schnauzer is a small breed at 30–36 cm (12–14 in) and 5–9 kg (11–20 lbs).

The Miniature Schnauzer is somewhat larger, though the difference isn't dramatic. Both breeds are manageable for most owners, but the size gap does affect food portions and space requirements.

The Maltese has a long coat available in white, while the Miniature Schnauzer sports a wiry coat in salt and pepper, black, black and silver, white. Coat type significantly impacts grooming needs and shedding, which we cover below.

The Maltese has moderate energy (3/5) with low exercise needs (2/5). The Miniature Schnauzer has high energy (4/5) and moderate exercise needs (3/5).

You'll need to dedicate more time to exercising the Miniature Schnauzer, which thrives on vigorous daily activity. The Maltese is less demanding in this regard and settles more easily into a relaxed routine.

For apartment dwellers, the Maltese is the stronger choice with an apartment-friendliness score of 5/5, compared to the Miniature Schnauzer's 4/5. The Miniature Schnauzer generally does better with access to a yard or larger living space.

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

The Maltese demands more grooming attention with a score of 5/5, while the Miniature Schnauzer is lower-maintenance at 4/5. The Maltese's long coat requires regular brushing and professional grooming sessions, adding to the overall cost of ownership.

Annual grooming costs average around $500 for the Maltese and $400 for the Miniature Schnauzer. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.

The Maltese has a lifespan of 12–15 years, while the Miniature Schnauzer lives 12–15 years. Both breeds have comparable lifespans.

The Miniature Schnauzer is generally the healthier breed, scoring 4/5 for health robustness versus the Maltese's 3/5. This often translates to fewer vet visits and lower medical costs.

Common health issues for the Maltese include patellar luxation, portosystemic shunt, progressive retinal atrophy, dental disease. The Miniature Schnauzer is prone to pancreatitis, urinary stones, cataracts, liver shunts. Regular vet checkups and health screenings are essential for both breeds.

Annual vet costs average $450 for the Maltese and $400 for the Miniature Schnauzer. Pet insurance is worth considering for either breed.

Training comes more naturally with the Miniature Schnauzer, which scores 4/5 for trainability. The Maltese's score of 3/5 means you may need more patience and consistency to see results.

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.

The Miniature Schnauzer edges ahead as a family dog, scoring 4/5 with children versus the Maltese's 2/5. The Miniature Schnauzer's friendly temperament makes it especially patient around kids.

The Maltese is more welcoming to strangers (4/5), while the Miniature Schnauzer 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 Maltese ranges from $600–$2,500, while a Miniature Schnauzer typically costs $600–$2,000. The Maltese has a higher upfront cost.

Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $1,250 for the Maltese and $1,220 for the Miniature Schnauzer. The Maltese is more expensive to maintain year over year, mainly due to grooming expenses.

Monthly food costs run about $25 for the Maltese and $35 for the Miniature Schnauzer. 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.