Maltichon vs. Belgian Sheepdog: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Maltichons or Belgian Sheepdogs hypoallergenic, or neither?

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Maltichons are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Unfortunately, the Belgian Sheepdog is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog dogs?

Active
Playful
Sensitive
Intelligent
Responsive
Docile
Affectionate
Gentle
Tempered
Sweet
Cheerful
Easygoing

Active
Confident
Hard
Working
Stubborn
Intelligent
Alert
Friendly
Protective
Watchful

Shedding Level

Do Maltichons shed more than Belgian Sheepdogs, or which breed sheds more, Maltichons or Belgian Sheepdogs?

2 / 5

Maltichons are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

3 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Maltichon or Belgian Sheepdog?

1 / 5

Avoid Maltichons as watchdogs - they're not effective.

5 / 5

Choose a Belgian Sheepdog if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

Origin

What is the origin of Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog dog breeds?

United States

Belgium

Ancestry

What are the origins of Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog breeds?

Bichon Frise and Maltese

Shepherd Dog

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog?

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DBR = Designer Breed Registry
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

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

Date of Birth

When were Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog breeds first developed?

Unknown

1800s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog breeds?

White

Black
Fawn
Sable

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog breeds?

5 / 5

Maltichons are known for their coat length.

4 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog?

Wavy

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog?

A Maltichon can have a litter of 3-5 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 Belgian Sheepdog can have a litter of 12-14 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

5 / 5

Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdogs are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog 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 Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog breeds?

Patellar Luxation
Allergies
Cushing's Disease
Patent Ductus Arteriosis (PDA)

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia
Hypothyroidism
Cancer

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog?

Cataracts
Hydrocephalus
Atopic Dermatitis
Dental Disease
Portosystemic Shunt
Shaker Dog Syndrome
Corneal Dystrophy
Cryptorchidism

Cataracts
Epilepsy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog breeds?

Eye Examination
Dental Examination
Electrocardiogram
Radiographs
Skin Samples

Blood Test
Hip X-Rays
Thyroid Tests
MRI
Eye Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Maltichons and Belgian Sheepdogs compare?

4 / 5

Maltichons' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

5 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Social Needs

Maltichon vs Belgian Sheepdog social needs comparison

5 / 5

Maltichon has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

4 / 5

Belgian Sheepdog has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Maltichon vs Belgian Sheepdog exercise need comparison.

3 / 5

Maltichons need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

5 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Maltichon or Belgian Sheepdog?

4 / 5

Maltichons are known for their relaxed and calm nature and enjoy long periods of sleep.

1 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Tendency to Bark

Do Maltichons or Belgian Sheepdogs bark more/less frequently?

3 / 5

Maltichons bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

5 / 5

Belgian Sheepdog dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Maltichon vs Belgian Sheepdog?

3 / 5

2 / 5

Roaming urge

Maltichon vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Maltichon or Belgian Sheepdog - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

3 / 5

1 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog entertained?

Walk, Go to Park, Play, Tug-of-war, Nap, Chase, Eating Snacks, Cuddle, Service dog, Cuddling, Fetch, Daily wa, Training, Tag, Playing, Walks long, Walking, Adventures, Drives, Tricks, Resting, Run, People watching, Brushing, Walking daily

Playing Ball, Walk, Run, Keep away, Hike, Swim, Frizbee, Canoeing, Chase, Long walks, Hiking, Eating Snacks

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Maltichons or Belgian Sheepdogs?

Maltichons are low-energy dogs. This breed make a great companion for a relatively inactive person. Maltichon dogs require a few short daily walks, and then they're happy snuggling next to you for the rest of the day.

Belgian Sheepdogs are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Maltichon or Belgian Sheepdog walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Maltichon, it's at least 2 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 Belgian Sheepdog, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Maltichons or Belgian Sheepdogs require more exercise?

In general most Maltichons usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Belgian Sheepdogs usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Maltichons or Belgian Sheepdogs?

4 / 5

Maltichons require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

3 / 5

The Belgian Sheepdog requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog dogs?

Ideally, Maltichon should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Belgian Sheepdog 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

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Maltichons and Belgian Sheepdogs?

Pin Brush
Comb
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Maltichon or Belgian Sheepdog in cups?

For an average 9-13 pound (4 - 6 kg) Maltichon feed 0.5 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 55-75 pound (25 - 34 kg) Belgian Sheepdog feed 2.5 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, Maltichon or Belgian Sheepdog?

The average cost of a Maltichon is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

The average cost of a Belgian Sheepdog is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Maltichon or Belgian Sheepdog?

The average per month expenses of a Maltichon is between $28 - $42. This makes an average of $336 - $504 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 Belgian Sheepdog is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 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: Maltichons vs Belgian Sheepdogs

2 / 5

Maltichon has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

4 / 5

Belgian Sheepdog is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Maltichon vs Belgian Sheepdog?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Maltichon or Belgian Sheepdog?

5 / 5

Maltichons make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

2 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Child Friendly

Do Maltichons or Belgian Sheepdogs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Maltichon or Belgian Sheepdog?

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Maltichon or Belgian Sheepdog breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

5 / 5

Maltichons and Belgian Sheepdogs are very cat friendly dogs. They generally make good companions for cats.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Maltichon or Belgian Sheepdog?

5 / 5

Maltichons are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

3 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do Maltichon or Belgian Sheepdog dogs interact with other pets?

5 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Maltichon or Belgian Sheepdog?

5 / 5

Maltichons are highly friendly around strangers.

3 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Maltichon and Belgian Sheepdog?

4 / 5

Maltichons are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

5 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Maltichons and Belgian Sheepdogs compare?

3 / 5

Maltichons are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

4 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.