15 Perfect Pups For People Who Love The Maltese

Nothing wins over dog lovers like a pint-sized pup with a silky coat and a heart full of affection. Breeds like the Maltese have a unique way of turning heads and warming laps. That signature blend of sweetness and style has inspired quite a fan following. Here are a few kindred canines worth knowing.

Bichon Frise

Underneath those soft, springy curls is a happy-go-lucky companion with serious appeal. Always eager to mingle, this little fluff brings the same affection and low-shedding perks that make the Maltese lovable. With routine brushing and a playful home, they shine as bright as their silky cousins.

Silky Terrier

Glossy fur and a zippy personality make the Silky Terrier a stylish companion. Often mistaken for a long-haired Yorkie, this breed has tighter, shinier locks and a slightly leaner build. They’re curious and need regular walks to satisfy their minds and muscles.

Havanese

Cheerful by nature and draped in a soft coat, Havanese pups bring a familiar warmth Maltese lovers know well. They’re just as small and people-focused, with a playful streak that adds sparkle. Their hair grows long and glossy, and they’re happiest when someone is nearby to fuss over them.

Bolonka

Bred to charm aristocrats, the Bolonka brings fluffy coats and affectionate snuggles to the table. Bolonka are not widely known in the U.S., but they match the Maltese in low-shedding qualities and love of people. Daily brushing helps maintain their curls and keeps them looking fresh and soft.

Coton De Tulear

Tightly bonded to their humans and dressed in a cottony coat, Cotons mirror Maltese devotion and softness. Their calm, clownish personality fits right into relaxed households. Their texture may be tousled, but they carry the same hypoallergenic reputation—and love curling up on the couch just as much.

Toy Poodle

Intelligence runs high in this tiny, curly-coated dynamo. Despite the difference in curls versus straight locks, Toy Poodles match Maltese charm in size, trainability, and low-shedding appeal. They’re friendly, affectionate, and love to entertain—making them an excellent pick for fans of lively, bright-eyed lapdogs.

Pomeranian

Plenty of sass hides beneath all that fluff. The double coat requires frequent upkeep, and they love being the center of attention—just like the Maltese. Pomeranians are bold, vocal, and happiest when they’re the center of everything. A brisk walk and some praise go a long way.

Yorkshire Terrier

Tons of attitude packed into a petite frame gives the Yorkie its signature flair. Their velvety coats can rival the Maltese in length and shine, but their bold disposition makes them a bit sassier. Daily walks and consistent grooming help balance their high energy with pampered poise.

Shih Tzu

An ancient companion with a flowing coat and a sweet nature, the Shih Tzu feels right at home beside the Maltese. Although they’re slightly sturdier and more independent, they share that same easygoing affection and love of quiet comforts. Both breeds enjoy attention and cozy company.

Japanese Chin

Delicate features and a velvety coat give the Japanese Chin an elegance that feels familiar to Maltese fans. They tend to stick close, crave gentle handling, and enjoy quiet time with their favorite person. While slightly reserved, their loyalty and softness hit all the right notes.

Lhasa Apso

Bold and independent, the Lhasa Apso started as a Tibetan sentinel but has settled nicely into family life. The long coat resembles the Maltese, but the temperament leans toward guardian instincts instead of lapdog behavior. The Lhasa Apso is not a clingy breed but craves company and a calm home to show off its regal mane.

Pekingese

With a fluffy coat, flat face, and a lot of attitude—the Pekingese is packed with personality. The mane-like fur sets them apart from the Maltese, but their loyal hearts make them just as lovable. Despite their royal roots, they enjoy snoozing on laps and staying close to their inner circle.

English Toy Spaniel

A pushed-in face and feathered ears give this breed its signature style. While closer to Cavaliers in lineage, their quiet loyalty and soft coats feel familiar to Maltese fans. They’re calm, cuddly, and happiest when surrounded by gentle warmth and a peaceful place to unwind.

Papillon

Papillons’ small size, affectionate nature, and alert spirit place Them close to the Maltese playbook. Their coat feels textured, and their ears stand out with dramatic flair, but they bring the same loyalty and sociability. Papillons thrive in homes that value brains and bonding in one tidy, feathery little package.

Bolognese

Quiet devotion and a woolly white coat are signatures of the Bolognese. These Italian pups stick to their humans like velcro but don’t bark excessively. Bolognese dogs are more laid-back than the Maltese, preferring relaxed strolls and cozy naps over frantic zoomies. Combing keeps their coats from tangling into tight knots.