Logo for Buddy Breeds Buddy Breeds

Papillon vs Alaskan Malamute vs Maltese

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 Papillon
size

Papillons are small dogs, weighing 4-9 lbs, with a height of 8-11 inches.

energy level

Papillons have a high energy level and enjoy being active, participating in playtime, and exploring their environment.

exercise needs

Papillons need regular exercise, including daily walks and playtime, to maintain their physical and mental well-being.

trainability

Papillons are highly trainable dogs, eager to learn and excel in various activities such as obedience, agility, and tracking.

intelligence

Papillons are highly intelligent dogs, known for their problem-solving abilities and quick learning.

adaptability

Papillons can adapt well to various living situations, including apartments and larger homes, as long as their exercise needs are met.

with kids

Papillons can be good with children, but their small size makes them more susceptible to injury. Supervision and proper handling are important.

with other pets

Papillons can get along well with other pets, especially when raised together. However, their small size may require caution around larger animals.

in cold climates

Papillons can tolerate colder temperatures, but their small size and thin coat require proper protection during extreme cold.

in hot climates

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

shedding

Papillons have a long, silky coat that sheds moderately and requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats.

grooming

Papillons require regular grooming, including brushing and occasional bathing, to keep their coats clean and healthy.

bark tendency

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

health issues

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

Full body image of a Alaskan Malamute
size

Alaskan Malamutes are large dogs, weighing 75-85 lbs, with a height of 23-25 inches.

energy level

Alaskan Malamutes have a medium energy level and require regular exercise and mental stimulation.

exercise needs

Alaskan Malamutes need a significant amount of exercise, including daily walks, runs, and opportunities for play and exploration.

trainability

Alaskan Malamutes can be challenging to train due to their independent nature. Consistent, positive reinforcement and patience are essential.

intelligence

Alaskan Malamutes are highly intelligent dogs and excel in various dog sports and activities, especially those involving endurance and strength.

adaptability

Alaskan Malamutes can adapt to different living situations, but they need plenty of space and exercise to thrive.

with kids

Alaskan Malamutes are good with children when properly socialized and supervised.

with other pets

Alaskan Malamutes can get along with other pets, but their high prey drive may require caution around smaller animals.

in cold climates

Alaskan Malamutes are well-suited for cold climates, thanks to their thick, double-layered coats.

in hot climates

Alaskan Malamutes are not well-suited for hot climates and need to be monitored for signs of overheating during exercise.

shedding

Alaskan Malamutes have thick double coats that shed heavily, especially during seasonal shedding periods.

grooming

Alaskan Malamutes require frequent grooming, including regular brushing and occasional bathing to keep their coats clean and healthy.

bark tendency

Alaskan Malamutes bark occasionally, usually only when necessary or provoked.

health issues

Alaskan Malamutes may experience some health issues and require additional care and attention, such as regular veterinary checkups, preventative care, and potential medication or treatments.

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.