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Maltese vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Labrador Retriever

Three friendly breeds enter—one emerges as your best match. Use the trait grids below to spot practical differences in lifestyle fit.

Full body image of a Maltese
size

Maltese are toy-sized dogs, weighing 4-7 lbs, with a height of 8-10 inches.

energy level

Maltese have a moderate energy level and enjoy short walks and indoor playtime.

exercise needs

Maltese require minimal exercise, with daily walks and playtime indoors being sufficient.

trainability

Maltese are moderately easy to train, but they may require patience and consistency.

intelligence

Maltese are of average intelligence and can learn new commands with proper training.

adaptability

Maltese are highly adaptable and do well in various living situations, including apartments and houses.

with kids

Maltese are generally okay with kids but are better suited for families with older children who understand how to handle small dogs gently.

with other pets

Maltese can get along well with other pets when properly socialized.

in cold climates

Maltese can tolerate some cold weather but should be protected from extreme cold with appropriate clothing and shelter.

in hot climates

Maltese can tolerate hot climates reasonably well but should always have access to shade and water.

shedding

Maltese have minimal shedding due to their long, silky coats.

grooming

Maltese require regular grooming, including daily brushing and occasional trims, to maintain their long coats.

bark tendency

Maltese have average bark tendencies and may bark for various reasons, such as alerting their owners or during playtime.

health issues

Maltese are generally healthy, but regular veterinary checkups and preventative care are still necessary.

Full body image of a Pembroke Welsh Corgi
size

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are small dogs with a sturdy build, standing 10-12 inches tall and weighing 24-30 lbs.

energy level

Pembroke Welsh Corgis have moderate energy levels and enjoy daily walks, playtime, and interactive toys to stay engaged.

exercise needs

Pembroke Welsh Corgis require regular exercise, such as walks and playtime, to keep them mentally and physically fit.

trainability

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train with consistency and positive reinforcement.

intelligence

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are highly intelligent dogs, known for their problem-solving skills and quick learning abilities.

adaptability

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are highly adaptable and can thrive in various living situations, including apartments and homes with yards.

with kids

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are generally good with children, but their herding instincts may lead them to nip at heels, so supervision is recommended.

with other pets

Pembroke Welsh Corgis usually get along well with other dogs and pets, especially if socialized from an early age.

in cold climates

Pembroke Welsh Corgis can handle cold climates, thanks to their double coat, but still require proper shelter and protection during extreme weather.

in hot climates

Pembroke Welsh Corgis can manage in hot climates but require shade, water, and limited exercise during the hottest parts of the day.

shedding

Pembroke Welsh Corgis have a double coat that sheds seasonally. Regular grooming can help keep shedding under control.

grooming

Pembroke Welsh Corgis require regular grooming, including brushing and bathing, to keep their coats clean and healthy.

bark tendency

Pembroke Welsh Corgis have average bark tendencies and may bark for various reasons, such as alerting their owners or during playtime.

health issues

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are generally healthy, but regular veterinary checkups and preventative care are still necessary.

Full body image of a Labrador Retriever
size

Sturdy and muscular, Labs weigh 55-80 lbs and stand 21.5-24.5 inches tall.

energy level

Labs are energetic and playful, always ready for adventure or a fun game of fetch.

exercise needs

Keep your Lab happy and fit with daily exercise like walks, runs, or playtime.

trainability

Labs are eager to please, making them a breeze to train for both beginners and experts.

intelligence

Quick learners, Labs excel at problem-solving and mastering new tasks.

adaptability

Labs adapt to various environments and lifestyles, from city apartments to country homes.

with kids

Known as gentle giants, Labs are patient, loving, and fantastic playmates for children.

with other pets

Friendly and sociable, Labs get along swimmingly with other dogs and even cats.

in cold climates

Labs' double coats help them handle cold weather, but they still need shelter and warmth.

in hot climates

Labs can manage hot climates, but provide shade, water, and avoid excessive exercise.

shedding

Expect Labs to shed, especially during seasonal coat changes. Keep that brush handy!

grooming

Regular brushing keeps Labs' coats healthy and controls shedding.

bark tendency

Labrador Retrievers have average bark tendencies and may bark for various reasons, such as alerting their owners or during playtime.

health issues

Labrador Retrievers are generally healthy, but regular veterinary checkups and preventative care are still necessary.