The so-called companion dogs have always aroused great interest. Already in the old days they occupied an important place in castles and palaces around the world, accompanying the rulers, making them pleasant and in a good mood. Currently, their popularity is not waning.
Today we will focus on the main ones differences between Maltese and Bolognesetwo small and white dog breeds appreciated all over the world but often confused because they are very similar aesthetically.
Small dogs are often chosen as pets by families with small children. But when you decide to buy these cute snow-white dogs, don’t be guided by their cute looks alone: their needs and requirements are worth knowing in detail.
Let’s find out the main differences between Maltese and Bolognese.
Bolognese and Maltese: the origins
Let’s start with the Maltese dog, because it is considered one of the oldest breeds in the world. For this reason, it is difficult to undoubtedly estimate its origin. Certainly these dogs were known and appreciated as pets in ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt.
Some believe these specimens come from Malta. On the other hand, it is assumed that the term “Maltese” derives from the Latin name of the island Meleda (Melite), in the Adriatic Sea, near the coasts of Dalmatia.
The Bolognese was much loved by the Medici family. During the Renaissance a Bolognathe breed was very popular and noble families used to give a specimen as a gift.
One of the breeds that certainly participated in the creation of the Bolognese breed was the Maltese.
Similarities between Maltese and Bolognese dogs
The traits common to both breeds are different, such as the color of fur, eyes e naso.
The white coat is the only official color of the breeds, characterized by a dark eye color (dark brown in the Bolognese, dark ocher in the Maltese) and a black nose.
Differences between Maltese and Bolognese: physical aspect
The main differences between Maltese and Bolognese are purely aesthetic, even if the two examples share a common aspect due to the fact that they are related to each other.
- Both breeds have a medium length coat, but while the coat the Maltese is silky and smooth, that of the Bolognese is soft and curly. It is more similar to the Bichon frisé, which is also its relative.
- He Bichon Bolognese ha a slightly longer muzzle with shorter hair.
- Bolognese dogs are mildly larger of the Maltese.
Bolognese dog: size and weight
Dogs of this breed are on average 27 to 30 cm tall at the withers, females 25 to 28 cm. The weight of these dogs should be between 2.5 and 4 kg.
Maltese dog: size and weight
The Maltese is about 21 to 25 cm tall at the withers for males and 20 to 23 cm for females. The weight of this specimen is about 3-5 kg.
Bolognese and Maltese: character and temperament
Each of the breeds has probably always been used as a companion dog. This destiny, unchanged over the centuries, has fixed some common character traits in the races.
Similarities of character
Both Maltese and Bolognese dogs are a lot socialfriendly, kind and quite patient.
They are perfect companions for families with children – only if, of course, parents teach their children how to behave properly towards a pet -.
The truth is that even the calmest and most gentle quadruped can bite and / or scratch if they feel threatened and have no way out.
These animals are a lot related to their owners. Therefore, they should not be left alone for a long time, so as not to suffer from boredom and loneliness. Repeated situations of this type can cause serious problems of an educational and even behavioral nature (eg separation anxiety).
Character differences between Bolognese and Maltese
While both the Bolognese and the Maltese are cheerful, energetic and fun-loving dogs, the Bichon bolonais needs some less daily physical activity.
He will be happy for short walks, unless of course it will be his only form of entertainment – you should also take care of mental activity.
The Maltese, on the other hand, are much more active and resistant. It is not uncommon nowadays to see a specimen of this breed, for example at agility competitions, where it gets really satisfying results!
Health of Maltese and Bolognese dogs
Maltese people are known to be prone to various medical conditions, such as eye, ear and tooth diseases as well as food allergies.
Bolognese are relatively healthy dogs, but they sometimes have problems with osteoarticular diseases, such as patella luxation.
L’life expectation average of each breed is similar. Maltese dogs live on average from 12 to 15 years and Bolognese from 12 to 14 years.
Coat care of the Maltese and Bolognese
Although both the Bichon bolonais and the Maltese are small dogs, keeping them can be difficult, especially for inexperienced people and those who lack the time and / or patience for regular long-term treatments.
Despite the differences described above in the appearance and structure of the coat of the breeds, each of them requires above all one regular brushingpreferably several times a week.
It is advisable to brush these puppies carefully after each long walk, for example in the woods or in a meadow, in order to remove dirt and any residues entangled in the coat, such as sticks and leaves. Neglect in this activity can lead to the formation of knots, the removal of which will be very complicated.
Speaking of trimming, these dogs need to be trimmed regularly. Your best bet is to visit a professional grooming salon, at least initially.
It is also very important to wash both dogs’ eyes regularly, otherwise streaks will appear around them.
Differences between Maltese and Bolognese: the price
The price for a Bichon bolonais puppy is around 700-1800 euro for a pedigreed dog, while the cost of purchasing a Maltese varies between 600 and 1500 euros.
A dog’s price is influenced by many factors including region, type of breeding, age, sex of the dog and intended use.
If you are considering buying one of these breeds, beware of pseudo-breeds. Before buying a pet, go on a lookout for one good and reliable breeding and have an in-depth conversation with the breeder.
Summary
Both the Bolognese and the Maltese are adorable, cheerful and energetic little dogs who love to play and are very attached to their family.
These breeds are related to each other, so they have a lot more in common than you think. If you are looking to adopt a puppy, both will be a great choice!