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Pointer vs Newfoundland 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 Pointer
size

Pointers are large dogs, weighing 45-75 lbs, with a height of 23-28 inches.

energy level

Pointers have a high energy level and require regular physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

exercise needs

Pointers need plenty of exercise, including daily walks, runs, and opportunities to participate in activities like hunting or dog sports.

trainability

Pointers are intelligent and trainable, but they can be independent thinkers. Consistent, positive reinforcement is key.

intelligence

Pointers are highly intelligent dogs and excel in various dog sports and activities, especially those involving hunting and scent work.

adaptability

Pointers can adapt to various living situations, but they thrive in environments where they have space to run and exercise.

with kids

Pointers are generally good with children, but their energy and size may be overwhelming for young kids. Proper supervision and training are important.

with other pets

Pointers can get along well with other pets, especially when raised together. However, their hunting instincts may require caution around smaller animals.

in cold climates

Pointers can tolerate cold weather, but they may need extra protection during extreme cold due to their short coats.

in hot climates

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

shedding

Pointers have a short coat and shed moderately, requiring regular brushing to keep their coats clean and healthy.

grooming

Pointers require minimal grooming, including occasional brushing and bathing to keep their coats clean and healthy.

health issues

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

Full body image of a Newfoundland
size

Newfoundlands are extra-large dogs, weighing 100-150 lbs, with a height of 26-28 inches.

energy level

Newfoundlands have a medium energy level and enjoy regular exercise, but they are not as demanding as some other breeds.

exercise needs

Newfoundlands require regular exercise, including daily walks and playtime, to keep them happy and healthy.

trainability

Newfoundlands are intelligent dogs, but they can be independent thinkers, making training moderately challenging.

intelligence

Newfoundlands are intelligent dogs and are known for their problem-solving abilities.

adaptability

Newfoundlands can adapt to various living situations, but they need enough space to accommodate their large size.

with kids

Newfoundlands are known for their gentle and protective nature towards children, making them great family dogs.

with other pets

Newfoundlands generally get along well with other pets when properly socialized.

in cold climates

Newfoundlands are well-suited to cold climates due to their thick, double-layered coats.

in hot climates

Newfoundlands may struggle in hot climates due to their thick, double-layered coats.

shedding

Newfoundlands have seasonal shedding and require regular brushing to manage their thick coats.

grooming

Newfoundlands require regular grooming, including daily brushing and occasional trims, to maintain their thick, double-layered coats.

bark tendency

Newfoundlands bark occasionally, usually only when necessary or provoked.

health issues

Newfoundlands may have some health issues, requiring regular veterinary checkups and preventative care.

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.