Rhodesian Ridgeback vs. Maltese: Breed Differences and Similarities
Weight Gain Potential
Which breed eats more: Rhodesian Ridgeback or Maltese?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese breeds have an average risk of becoming obese. Daily walks and a balanced diet of quality dry dog food can help maintain a healthy weight. An active lifestyle and monitoring weight regularly is recommended.
Hypoallergenic
Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks or Malteses hypoallergenic, or neither?
Unfortunately, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.
While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Malteses are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.
Temperament
What are the personalities of Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese dogs?
Dignified
Loyal
Sensitive
Intelligent
Mischievous
Strong
Willed
Active
Easygoing
Intelligent
Responsive
Docile
Gentle
Playful
Sweet
Tempered
Shedding Level
Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks shed more than Malteses, or which breed sheds more, Rhodesian Ridgebacks or Malteses?
Rhodesian Ridgeback or Maltese will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.
Watchdog Ability
Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Rhodesian Ridgeback or Maltese?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, these breeds will alert their owner.
Origin
What is the origin of Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese dog breeds?
South Africa
Malta
Ancestry
What are the origins of Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese breeds?
african tribal dog, dane, mastiff, bloodhound, pointer, greyhound, terrier
terrier
Breed recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize/register Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese?
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
Rhodesian Ridgeback Club Of The US
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Date of Birth
When were Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese breeds first developed?
1800s
ancient times
Breed Group
What is the Breed Group of Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese?
Hound (AKC:1955)
Sighthounds & pariahs (UKC)
Toy (AKC:1888)
Companion Breed & Show Breed (UKC)
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese dogs?
Brown
Amber
Brown
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese?
Black
Brown
Black
Coat Color Possibilites
What are the natural colors of the coat for Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese breeds?
Fawn
Red
White
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese breeds?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks have coats that can be either short or medium in length.
Malteses are known for their coat length.
Coat Density
What is the density of the coat of Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese?
Straight
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese?
A Rhodesian Ridgeback can have a litter of 10-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
A Maltese can have a litter of 15-18 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
Adaptability
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.
Malteses are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.
Health Issues
Between Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese, which breed is more prone to health problems?
Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.
Major Concerns
What are the major health concerns for Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese breeds?
Dermoid Sinus
Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
Bloat
Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Obesity
Minor Concerns
What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese?
Entropion
Deafness
Cataracts
Hypothyroidism
Degenerative Myelopathy
Mono/Bilateral Cryptorchidism
Hydrocephalus
Dental Disease
Portosystemic Shunt
Shaker Dog Syndrome
Occasional Tests
What occasional tests are recommended for Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese breeds?
Hip
Hearing
Breeder Check For Dermoid Sinus
Skeletal
Thyroid Tests
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Eye
Knee
Liver Ultrasound
CT Scan
Dental Examination
Physical Examination
Energy
How do the energy levels of Rhodesian Ridgebacks and Malteses compare?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.
Malteses are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.
Social Needs
Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Maltese social needs comparison
Rhodesian Ridgeback has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.
Maltese has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.
Exercise Needed
Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Maltese exercise need comparison.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.
Malteses require minimal physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.
Sleeping Need
Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Rhodesian Ridgeback or Maltese?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.
Malteses have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more/less, Rhodesian Ridgeback or Maltese?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.
Tendency to Bark
Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks or Malteses bark more/less frequently?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.
Maltese dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.
Territorial
Is the Rhodesian Ridgeback or Maltese a better guard dog?
These breeds are known for their strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They will fiercely defend their territory and are highly alert and vigilant against any perceived threat to their home and family.
Mouthiness
Mouthiness Comparison: Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Maltese?
Roaming urge
Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
Rhodesian Ridgeback or Maltese - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Past times
What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese entertained?
Fetch, Eating Snacks, Walk, Run, Playing, Tug-of-war, Running, Sniffing, Jumping, Walking, Get massages, Facial kisses, Wandering, Catch treats, Play, Zoomies, Go get it, Everything, Cuddling, Walks, Swimming
Walk, Cuddle, Sleep, Walking, Petting, Sniffing, Exploring, Playing, Running, Snuggle, Chasing, Wrestling, Being cute, Playdate, Go to Park, Frisbee, Swim, Chase, Bath time, Hide & Seek, Off-leash, Eating Snacks, Tag
Activity Level
Which breed has higher energy, Rhodesian Ridgebacks or Malteses?
Both Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.
Tolerance of being left alone
Walks per Week
How many miles should Rhodesian Ridgeback or Maltese walk each week?
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Rhodesian Ridgeback, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Maltese, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
Activity per Day
Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks or Malteses require more exercise?
Both Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese typically require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.
Grooming
Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Rhodesian Ridgebacks or Malteses?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.
The Maltese requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.
Brushing Frequency
What is the recommended brushing frequency for Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese dogs?
Rhodesian Ridgeback should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot
Ideally, Maltese should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.
Brushing Tools
What brushing tools are used for Rhodesian Ridgebacks and Malteses?
Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper
Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to Rhodesian Ridgeback or Maltese in cups?
For an average 79-85 pound (36 - 39 kg) Rhodesian Ridgeback feed 2.8 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.
For an average 4-7 pound (2 - 3 kg) Maltese feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.
Daily Cost
Which breed has a higher daily cost, Rhodesian Ridgeback or Maltese?
The average cost of a Rhodesian Ridgeback is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.
The average cost of a Maltese is somewhere $1.40 - $1.80 per day.
Monthly Cost
Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Rhodesian Ridgeback or Maltese?
The average per month expenses of a Rhodesian Ridgeback is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
The average per month expenses of a Maltese is between $42 - $53. This makes an average of $504 - $636 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
Intelligence
Comparing Intelligence: Rhodesian Ridgebacks vs Malteses
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.
Maltese has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.
Sensitivity Level
How do Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese compare in sensitivity?
These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.
Affection Dependance
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Maltese?
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Rhodesian Ridgeback or Maltese?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.
Malteses make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.
Child Friendly
Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks or Malteses have a friendlier temperament towards children?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.
Malteses are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.
Senior-friendly
Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Rhodesian Ridgeback or Maltese?
Cat Friendly
Do Rhodesian Ridgeback or Maltese breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.
Malteses are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.
Dog Friendly
Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Rhodesian Ridgeback or Maltese?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.
Malteses are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.
Pet friendly
How do Rhodesian Ridgeback or Maltese dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Rhodesian Ridgeback or Maltese?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.
Malteses are highly friendly around strangers.
Playfulness
Which breed is more playful between Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.
Malteses have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.
Trainability
How do the trainability levels of Rhodesian Ridgebacks and Malteses compare?
Rhodesian Ridgeback and Maltese dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.
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