Border Collie vs Maltese Cost Comparison 2026
Border Collie costs $1,810/yr vs $1,720/yr for Maltese. Over a lifetime: $27,740 vs $26,680. Here's where the money goes.
Border Collie
$27,740
lifetime (14 yrs)
Lifetime Difference
$1,060
Maltese costs less
Maltese
$26,680
lifetime (14 yrs)
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Border Collie | Maltese | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $700–$2,000 | $800–$2,500 | Border Collie |
| Annual Food | $480 | $220 | Maltese |
| Routine Vet Care | $450 | $450 | Border Collie |
| Grooming | $100 | $480 | Border Collie |
| Pet Insurance | $28–$52/mo | $24–$50/mo | Maltese |
| Supplies & Training | $400 | $230 | Maltese |
| Total Annual Cost | $1,810 | $1,720 | Maltese |
| Lifetime Cost | $27,740 | $26,680 | Maltese |
Border Collie Cost Profile
- Size
- medium
- Lifespan
- 14 years
- Purchase Price
- $700–$2,000
- Annual Cost
- $1,810/yr
- Lifetime Total
- $27,740
Maltese Cost Profile
- Size
- small
- Lifespan
- 14 years
- Purchase Price
- $800–$2,500
- Annual Cost
- $1,720/yr
- Lifetime Total
- $26,680
Bottom Line
Annual costs are nearly identical — $90/yr difference. Your choice comes down to lifespan, grooming needs, and health risk, not ongoing budget impact.