Silky Terrier vs Maltese

Side-by-side comparison — size, temperament, traits, costs, and health

Silky Terrier
Category
Maltese

📏 Physical Stats

8 - 10
Weight (lbs)
4 - 7
9 - 10
Height (inches)
8 - 10
12 - 15 years
Life Expectancy
15 - 18 years
Toy
Breed Group
Toy
Australia
Origin
Mediterranean Basin
Small vermin hunting, companionship
Bred For
Lapdog

⚡ Temperament & Traits

Scores are 1–5 from breed data. Higher = more of that trait. Barking: lower is quieter.

5/5
Better
Energy Level
2/5
5/5
Better
Trainability
2/5
5/5
Good with Children
5/5
5/5
Good with Other Dogs
5/5
4/5
Grooming Needs
4/5

💰 Cost of Ownership

Based on breed-specific cost data at a moderate care level — quality food, routine vet, occasional grooming, standard insurance. Actual costs vary by location and provider.

Annual Cost
$1,688
Silky Terrier
vs
Annual Cost
$1,688
Maltese
Silky Terrier
Expense
Maltese
$1,688
Annual Cost
$1,688
$2,408
First Year
$2,408
$23,508
Lower ✓
Lifetime Total
$28,572
$228
Food (annual)
$228
$515
Vet Care (annual)
$515
$440
Grooming (annual)
$440
$480
Insurance (annual)
$480
$40
Insurance (monthly)
$40

Over their lifetimes, a Silky Terrier (~14 yrs) costs approximately $5,064 less than a Maltese (~17 yrs) in total.

🏥 Health Considerations

Health conditions listed are common concerns for these breeds or breed groups. Not every dog will develop these conditions. Regular vet check-ups are the best prevention.

🐾 Temperament

Silky Terrier

Friendly, Responsive, Alert, Quick, Joyful, Gentle, Loyal, Quiet, Independent, Affectionate, Playful, Curious

Maltese

Playful, Docile, Fearless, Affectionate, Sweet-Tempered, Lively, Responsive, Easygoing, Gentle, Intelligent, Active, Friendly