Alaskan Malamute vs Maltese Vet Costs
Alaskan Malamute owners spend $550-$1,300/yr at the vet. Maltese: $420-$1,050/yr. That's a $190/yr gap in average costs. Here's where the money goes.
Alaskan Malamute
$7,000-$16,000
lifetime vet costs (11 yrs)
moderate health risk
Lifetime Gap
$100
Maltese costs less
Maltese
$6,800-$16,000
lifetime vet costs (14 yrs)
moderate health risk
Vet Cost Breakdown
| Category | Alaskan Malamute | Maltese | Lower Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Vet Cost (avg) | $925/yr | $735/yr | Maltese |
| Annual Range | $550-$1,300 | $420-$1,050 | - |
| Preventive Care | $400/yr | $300/yr | Maltese |
| Emergency Risk Budget | $500/yr | $380/yr | Maltese |
| Pet Insurance | $48-$88/mo | $32-$65/mo | Maltese |
| Spay/Neuter | $250-$600 | $150-$350 | Maltese |
| Lifetime Vet Cost | $7,000-$16,000 | $6,800-$16,000 | Maltese |
Alaskan Malamute Health Risks
moderate risk · large, 75-100 lbs · 11-year lifespan · 2 visits/year
- Hip dysplasia (15-20%) $1,500-$6,000
- Hypothyroidism (10-15%) $200-$600
- Inherited polyneuropathy (Rare) $500-$2,000
Maltese Health Risks
moderate risk · small, 4-7 lbs · 14-year lifespan · 2-3 visits/year average
- Dental disease (90%+) $300-$900
- Patellar luxation (15-20%) $1,500-$4,000
- Hypoglycemia (puppies mostly) $100-$800
- Portosystemic shunt (3-5%) $3,000-$8,000
Breed-Specific Procedures
Alaskan Malamute
- Hip OFA screening $250-$500
- Thyroid panel $150-$300
- Dental cleaning $350-$750
Maltese
- Dental cleaning + extractions $380-$850
- Bile acids test (liver) $80-$200
- Wellness exam + vaccines $130-$270
Insurance: Is It Worth It?
Alaskan Malamute
$48-$88/mo ($576-$1,056/yr)
moderate risk. Worth it if you get coverage before age 2, when premiums are lowest.
Maltese
$32-$65/mo ($384-$780/yr)
moderate risk. Worth it if you get coverage before age 2, when premiums are lowest.
Premiums from Nationwide, ASPCA, and Embrace. Accident + illness plans, $500 deductible, 80% reimbursement.