Side-by-Side IQ Profile: Maltese vs. Bedlington Terrier
The Maltese, a cherished Toy breed, possesses a cognitive profile well-suited to its role as a devoted companion. Ranked #59 by Coren, placing them in the category of average working/obedience intelligence, they demonstrate a steady capacity for learning. Their Problem Solving ability is rated 3/5, indicating a moderate aptitude for navigating novel situations and figuring out solutions without being exceptionally inventive or easily flustered. Training Speed also sits at 3/5, suggesting they grasp new commands and routines at a consistent, approachable pace. Where the Maltese truly distinguishes itself is in Social Intelligence, scoring an impressive 5/5. This reflects a profound attunement to human emotions, intentions, and social cues, making them exceptionally empathetic and responsive to their owners. Their Instinctive Drive is a lower 2/5, meaning they have less inherent impulse for tasks like hunting or guarding, preferring interaction. Memory is rated 3/5, indicating reliable retention of learned behaviors and routines.
The Bedlington Terrier, a distinctive Terrier breed, presents a different cognitive blueprint, notably not having a Coren ranking, which often highlights a different kind of working intelligence. Their Problem Solving score of 3/5 mirrors the Maltese, suggesting a similar moderate capacity for tackling challenges, often with a characteristic terrier persistence. Training Speed is also 3/5, indicating a comparable rate of learning, though their motivation might stem from different sources than a companion breed. Social Intelligence for the Bedlington is 3/5, showing they are capable of forming strong bonds and understanding human communication, but perhaps without the Maltese's exceptional depth of emotional sensitivity. A significant difference lies in their Instinctive Drive, rated 3/5. This higher score reflects their terrier heritage, with a more pronounced natural inclination for digging, chasing, and independent exploration, traits honed for vermin control. Their Memory, like the Maltese, is 3/5, indicating a solid capacity for recall and retention.
Where the Maltese Wins Cognitively
The Maltese’s cognitive strengths are predominantly in the realm of social engagement and domestic harmony. Their standout Social Intelligence (5/5) means they possess an exceptional ability to read and respond to human emotions and intentions. This isn't just about being friendly; it translates into a nuanced understanding of their owner’s moods, a keenness to offer comfort, and an intuitive grasp of household routines and social dynamics. They excel at reciprocal communication, often anticipating needs or reacting sensitively to subtle cues, making them highly attuned emotional support animals. Furthermore, their lower Instinctive Drive (2/5) is a significant cognitive advantage in a companion setting. While a higher drive might be beneficial for working breeds, for a domestic pet, a reduced urge to chase, dig, or assert independence translates into fewer behavioral challenges related to prey drive or territoriality. This allows them to integrate seamlessly into a human-centric lifestyle, prioritizing interaction and shared activities over autonomous pursuits.
Where the Bedlington Terrier Wins Cognitively
The Bedlington Terrier's cognitive advantages are rooted in their working heritage and independent spirit. While their Problem Solving and Training Speed scores are similar to the Maltese, their higher Instinctive Drive (3/5) gives them an edge in tasks requiring persistence, focus, and independent action. This drive manifests as a natural inclination to investigate, track, and engage with their environment, making them adept at activities like scent work, earthdog trials, or agility where self-motivation is key. Unlike the Maltese, whose motivation often stems from social connection, the Bedlington can be driven by the inherent satisfaction of the task itself, showcasing a robust, self-reliant intelligence. Although their Social Intelligence is rated 3/5, this doesn't imply a lack of affection, but rather a more independent cognitive approach to relationships. They form strong bonds but often display a distinct terrier resilience and problem-solving without constant human direction, making them capable of navigating situations with a degree of self-sufficiency that some companion breeds might lack.
Which is Easier to Train and Why
When considering ease of training, the Maltese generally presents a more straightforward path for the average owner, primarily due to their superior Social Intelligence. While both breeds share a 3/5 score for Training Speed, the Maltese's profound desire to please and their exceptional ability to read human cues (Social Intelligence 5/5) means they are highly motivated by positive reinforcement and owner approval. They tend to seek interaction and guidance, making them more receptive to learning commands and adapting to household rules. Their lower Instinctive Drive (2/5) also means fewer distractions from innate urges like chasing small animals or digging, allowing for more focused training sessions. In contrast, the Bedlington Terrier, despite an equal Training Speed score, can be more challenging due to their higher Instinctive Drive (3/5) and slightly lower Social Intelligence (3/5). Their independent terrier nature means they might find external stimuli more compelling than owner directives, and their motivation might require more creative approaches to tap into their drive for achievement rather than pure social compliance. They can learn quickly, but their willingness to obey might depend on whether the task aligns with their own perceived interests or inherent drives, often requiring consistent, firm, and engaging methods to prevent them from becoming bored or stubborn.
Which Suits Active Owners vs. Relaxed Owners
The choice between a Maltese and a Bedlington Terrier largely depends on an owner's lifestyle and their preferred level of activity and interaction. A Maltese, with their high Social Intelligence and lower Instinctive Drive, is an ideal fit for more relaxed owners who prioritize companionship and intimate indoor living. They thrive on close human contact, enjoying gentle play, lap time, and being an integral part of daily household activities. While they do enjoy walks, their exercise needs are moderate, making them suitable for apartment living or owners with less intense outdoor routines. Their cognitive profile leans towards social engagement and emotional attunement, meaning they are content to observe and participate from a comfortable distance, often seeking quiet affection. Conversely, the Bedlington Terrier, with its higher Instinctive Drive and terrier heritage, is better suited for active owners who appreciate a dog with more zest for life and a desire for varied activities. They benefit from regular exercise that allows them to expend energy and engage their minds, such as brisk walks, runs, or structured play that incorporates chasing and digging elements. Their independent streak means they can be excellent partners for owners who enjoy exploring outdoors or participating in dog sports, even if it's just a vigorous game of fetch in the yard. They need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and channel their natural drives constructively.
The Verdict
Choose a Maltese if you seek an exceptionally socially attuned companion who thrives on close emotional connection and fits seamlessly into a relaxed, indoor-centric lifestyle, prioritizing your presence above all else.
Opt for a Bedlington Terrier if you are an active owner looking for an independent, spirited partner who enjoys engaging in varied outdoor activities and possesses a robust, self-reliant intelligence.
🧠 Find Your Pet's IQ Score
Our Pet IQ Lab assessment covers 25+ tests across 5 cognitive dimensions — personalized to your breed.
Take the Full IQ Test →Frequently Asked Questions
Are Maltese difficult to house train?
While their training speed is moderate, their high social intelligence means Maltese are eager to please and respond well to consistent positive reinforcement. With patience and a routine, they can be reliably house trained, often quickly understanding what is expected of them.
Do Bedlington Terriers bark a lot?
Bedlington Terriers can be vocal, especially if they are bored, lack sufficient exercise, or perceive something needing their attention due to their instinctive drive. Consistent training and mental stimulation can help manage excessive barking.
Which breed is better with children?
The Maltese, with their high social intelligence and gentle nature, often adapts well to considerate children who understand how to interact with a small dog. Bedlington Terriers can also be good with children, but their terrier energy and independent streak mean they might thrive best with slightly older, respectful children who can engage in play without overwhelming them.