[Luvmypupster]

The two breeds are very similar to one another and many times Yorkie or Maltese admirers tend to find both breeds appealing. Some of the same type health problems are prone to both breeds such as luxating patella, liver shunt, hypoglycemia, collapsed trachea, dental problem. White Shaker Dog Syndrome is something that is seen in small white dogs.

Both breeds are described as non shedding. Both breeds are described as being good for people with allergies due to low dander and shedding very little. Maltese do not have a doggy odor.

The maltese standard states that they are fine boned, weight is under 7 pounds with 4-6 lbs being desirable. They are single coated with silky hair that is pure white in color ( tan or lemon on the ears is permissible but not desirable). The terms black points and or halo describes the black eye rims and black nose. Tails are a long haired plume that is carried over the back. Head and ears resemble a spaniel.

The maltese temperament reads as follows according to AKC. (sounds pretty much like a yorkie to me)
For all his diminutive size, the Maltese seems to be without fear. His trust and affectionate responsiveness are very appealing. He is among the gentlest mannered of all little dogs, yet he is lively and playful as well as vigorous.

I truly love my maltese but he is not typical of the maltese temperament. I have never had a more devoted dog. He so painfully attached to me and has so little to do with anyone else. I just wish others in my family could enjoy his attention and affection as much as I do. Mia (yorkie) is very much a mamma’s girl as well but she also likes other people. I always say that if something were to happen to me poor Bentley would be devastated and probably pine away. While Mia would bond and adjust to someone else.