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Maltese vs Vizsla vs Golden 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 Vizsla
size

Vizslas are medium-sized dogs, weighing 45-65 lbs, with a height of 21-24 inches.

energy level

Vizslas have a high energy level and require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.

exercise needs

Vizslas need a significant amount of exercise, including daily walks, runs, and interactive play sessions.

trainability

Vizslas are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train with positive reinforcement.

intelligence

Vizslas are highly intelligent dogs and excel in various dog sports and activities.

adaptability

Vizslas can adapt to various living situations, but they thrive in active households that can provide ample exercise.

with kids

Vizslas are generally good with children when properly socialized and can be energetic playmates.

with other pets

Vizslas can get along well with other pets, especially when raised together.

in cold climates

Vizslas have short coats and may not be well-suited to extremely cold climates without proper protection.

in hot climates

Vizslas can tolerate hot climates, but they need to be monitored for signs of overheating during exercise.

shedding

Vizslas have short coats and shed minimally, making them low-maintenance in terms of grooming.

grooming

Vizslas require minimal grooming, with occasional brushing and bathing to keep their coats clean and healthy.

bark tendency

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

health issues

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

Full body image of a Golden Retriever
size

Golden Retrievers weigh 55-75 lbs and stand 21-24 inches tall, boasting a strong and balanced build.

energy level

Goldens are enthusiastic and lively, always up for a game of fetch or a long walk in the park.

exercise needs

Daily exercise like walks, runs, or playtime is essential for a healthy and happy Golden.

trainability

Intelligent and eager to please, Goldens are a dream to train for both first-time and experienced owners.

intelligence

Golden Retrievers are fast learners, excelling in problem-solving and grasping new skills.

adaptability

Goldens adapt well to various living situations, from urban apartments to spacious rural homes.

with kids

Loving and patient, Golden Retrievers are gentle playmates and excellent family dogs.

with other pets

Goldens are sociable and friendly, getting along with other dogs, cats, and even smaller pets.

in cold climates

Their dense double coats help them tolerate cold weather, but they still need warmth and shelter.

in hot climates

Goldens can cope with hot climates, but ensure they have shade, water, and avoid overexertion.

shedding

Goldens shed, especially during seasonal coat changes. Regular grooming helps manage shedding.

grooming

Routine brushing keeps a Golden's coat healthy, tangle-free, and controls shedding.

bark tendency

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

health issues

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