Maltese vs Shetland Sheepdog Cost Comparison 2026
Maltese costs $1,720/yr vs $1,650/yr for Shetland Sheepdog. Over a lifetime: $26,680 vs $23,850. Here's where the money goes.
Maltese
$26,680
lifetime (14 yrs)
Lifetime Difference
$2,830
Shetland Sheepdog costs less
Shetland Sheepdog
$23,850
lifetime (13 yrs)
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Maltese | Shetland Sheepdog | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $800–$2,500 | $800–$2,000 | Shetland Sheepdog |
| Annual Food | $220 | $320 | Maltese |
| Routine Vet Care | $450 | $450 | Maltese |
| Grooming | $480 | $240 | Shetland Sheepdog |
| Pet Insurance | $24–$50/mo | $25–$52/mo | Maltese |
| Supplies & Training | $230 | $280 | Maltese |
| Total Annual Cost | $1,720 | $1,650 | Shetland Sheepdog |
| Lifetime Cost | $26,680 | $23,850 | Shetland Sheepdog |
Maltese Cost Profile
- Size
- small
- Lifespan
- 14 years
- Purchase Price
- $800–$2,500
- Annual Cost
- $1,720/yr
- Lifetime Total
- $26,680
Shetland Sheepdog Cost Profile
- Size
- small
- Lifespan
- 13 years
- Purchase Price
- $800–$2,000
- Annual Cost
- $1,650/yr
- Lifetime Total
- $23,850
Bottom Line
Annual costs are nearly identical — $70/yr difference. Your choice comes down to lifespan, grooming needs, and health risk, not ongoing budget impact.