Comparison: Lhasa Apso and Maltese

Lhasa Apso and Maltese are marked as similar in our database. The table compares only the data we have on the breeds.

Lhasa Apso
Photo: localpups, CC BY 2.0, source
Maltese
Photo: Chantiquemaltese, CC0, source
Lhasa ApsoMaltese
FCI group9. Companion and Toy Dogs9. Companion and Toy Dogs
Country of originChinaMalta
CategorySmallVery small (toy)
Height at withers25–28 cm21–25 cm
Weight6–8 kg3–4 kg
Life span12–15 years12–15 years
Recognition features
  • Long, straight, heavy coat
  • Bearded face and drop ears
  • Tail carried over the back
  • Long, silky pure white coat to the ground
  • Black nose and dark round eyes
  • Small dog up to 3 kg with a tail curled over the back
CoatLong, heavy, straight, hard coat.Long, silky, straight coat, white.
PurposeA Tibetan monastery breed that guarded houses and temples; dogs were given as gifts by lamas.An ancient Mediterranean lap dog favoured by classical nobility; bred purely as a companion.

Breed page: Lhasa Apso · Breed page: Maltese

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The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard.