Introduction
The Maltese is a charming small dog breed celebrated for its stunning, flowing white coat that often brushes the floor, paired with a lively and affectionate personality.
Originating from the picturesque Mediterranean island of Malta, these timeless companions have been cherished across centuries, with their presence noted in Ancient Greek and Roman texts. Today, these petite white dogs are remarkably adaptable, offering delightful and devoted companionship to families around the world.
Caring for a Maltese
The Maltese boasts numerous wonderful qualities: they are compact, sociable, and typically robust in health. Their pristine white coat has earned them the reputation of being “hypoallergenic,” although no dog is completely free of allergens. However, this elegant, silky coat demands almost daily grooming to remain lustrous and tangle-free—so be prepared to dedicate regular time to their grooming needs.
Beyond grooming, welcoming a Maltese puppy into your home means committing to socialization and training. Despite their small size, these spirited pups have big personalities and thrive with consistent positive reinforcement, daily exercise, and mental engagement.
Maltese Health Issues
Maltese dogs generally enjoy a lifespan of 12 to 15 years and are known for good overall health. However, like many breeds, they can inherit certain health conditions that owners should recognize for effective management.
Luxating Patella
One inherited issue is luxating patella, where one or both kneecaps slip out of place intermittently.
Though often not painful, this condition can cause favoritism toward one leg and may increase the risk of other knee injuries, including ligament tears and arthritis. If the luxation is severe, surgical intervention might be necessary to prevent complications and enhance your Maltese’s comfort and mobility.
Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
Responsible breeders routinely screen Maltese puppies for heart defects like patent ductus arteriosus. This inherited heart condition occurs when the ductus arteriosus—a normal vessel connecting major blood vessels that should close shortly after birth—remains open.
This persistent opening leads to abnormal blood flow, forcing the heart’s left side to work harder, which can culminate in heart failure.
Symptoms can range from subtle to severe and may include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Decreased exercise tolerance
- Stunted growth
Surgical repair is often recommended to close the vessel, and dogs generally have a favorable outcome if surgery is performed before heart failure develops. Postoperative medications might be necessary if heart failure is already present.
Liver Shunts
Maltese puppies should be screened for congenital liver shunts—abnormal blood vessels that bypass the liver’s filtering system.
Bypassing the liver allows toxins and wastes to remain in the bloodstream, potentially leading to stunted growth and neurological symptoms like disorientation or seizures.
A blood test can detect liver shunts, which are typically managed through dietary adjustments and medications, though surgery might be needed in certain cases.
Dental Disease
Like other small breeds, Maltese dogs are more susceptible to dental disease, which can cause bad breath, inflamed gums, loose or painful teeth, and more serious health issues if untreated.
Daily tooth brushing at home, paired with regular professional dental cleanings, is essential to keep their smile healthy and pain-free.
What To Feed a Maltese
Choosing the right diet for your Maltese depends on their individual health needs and lifestyle.
Look for dog foods with premium ingredients and ensure they meet the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Some dog food brands even offer recipes formulated specifically for Maltese dogs—consult your veterinarian to determine if these are the best fit for your furry friend.
How To Feed a Maltese
Given their tiny stature, Maltese puppies can be prone to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) if they go too long between meals. To prevent this, feed your puppy small portions three to four times daily until they reach about four months of age.
Once their metabolism matures, you can transition them to two or three meals per day. Adult Maltese generally thrive on two meals—one in the morning and one in the evening.
Since Maltese may gain weight easily, avoid overfeeding and monitor their weight carefully to maintain a healthy body condition.
How Much Should You Feed a Maltese?
Feeding amounts vary by individual dog. Always follow the guidelines on your dog food packaging, which are based on weight.
For personalized advice tailored to your dog’s activity level and health, consult your veterinarian to adjust portions as needed.
Nutritional Tips for a Maltese
Maltese with luxating patella might benefit from joint supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin to support cartilage health. Omega-3 fatty acids, like fish oil, can help maintain supple skin, a shiny coat, and overall joint wellness.
Before starting any supplement regimen, discuss it with your veterinarian.
Maltese Personality and Temperament
Each dog is unique, but Maltese are generally affectionate, gentle, and social.
They make excellent family pets but require supervision around young children, as their tiny stature makes them vulnerable to accidental injury by rambunctious kids. Families with older children who understand gentle handling are often a better match.
Maltese dogs develop strong attachments to their owners and prefer close companionship. They may experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
Maltese Behavior
Though full of energy, Maltese do not require intense exercise. Moderate daily walks, playtime in the yard or indoors, and engaging training sessions are sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.
Without enough mental and physical stimulation, a bored Maltese might develop undesirable habits like excessive barking.
Maltese Training
Intelligent and eager to please, Maltese respond well to positive reinforcement techniques. Keep training sessions short, upbeat, and fun to hold their attention.
Be cautious about treat quantities during training since small dogs are prone to weight gain. Incorporate praise and toys as reward alternatives.
Fun Activities for a Maltese
- Daily walks
- Indoor and outdoor playtime
- Basic obedience training
- Agility challenges
- Learning fun new tricks
Maltese Grooming Guide
The iconic long, silky white coat of the Maltese demands daily maintenance to prevent mats and tangles. Brush or comb their fur every day, and regular baths help keep their skin and coat in pristine condition.
If daily upkeep feels overwhelming, consider shorter, stylish Maltese haircuts that reduce grooming time.
Skin Care
While Maltese usually have resilient skin, consistent grooming with gentle, dog-friendly shampoos supports healthy skin and coat.
Report any unusual skin changes to your veterinarian promptly.
Coat Care
The Maltese’s long fur can easily mat if neglected, leading to discomfort and potential skin issues. Daily brushing is critical to avoid knots and tangles.
When bathing your Maltese, rinse thoroughly and dry completely to prevent irritation or infections caused by residual moisture.
Eye Care
Their striking white coat makes tear staining more noticeable. Regular cleaning with veterinarian-approved tear stain removers can keep discoloration at bay.
If you notice excessive staining or unusual eye discharge, consult your vet as these may indicate deeper issues.
Ear Care
Routine ear cleaning using vet-recommended solutions helps keep ears healthy and infection-free. Clean ears promptly after swimming or baths to remove trapped moisture.
Dental Care
Dental health is vital for Maltese due to their susceptibility to oral disease. Brush their teeth daily using safe toothpaste and toothbrushes designed for dogs. Dental chews can also contribute to oral hygiene.
Considerations for Pet Parents
The Maltese’s dazzling white coat captivates many potential owners, but this breed flourishes best in homes that can commit to its daily grooming needs. Regular brushing and baths are essential, and if you opt for a short trim, budget for frequent grooming appointments.
In return, you’ll be rewarded with a lively, affectionate companion who thrives on attention but requires only moderate exercise—ideal for busy households.
While their tiny size makes them vulnerable around very young children, Maltese integrate seamlessly into families with older kids who know how to handle a small dog gently.
Do Maltese shed?
While all dogs shed to some degree, Maltese are known for minimal shedding, making them a favorite among allergy-sensitive individuals.
Are Maltese hypoallergenic?
No dog is completely allergen-free, as allergens come from skin flakes, saliva, and urine. However, the Maltese’s low-shedding coat can make them a better fit for some allergy sufferers. Spend time around the breed before bringing one home to gauge your reaction.
Is a Maltese a good family dog?
Absolutely. Maltese are loving and thrive in family settings. They do best with children who understand how to treat small pets gently, often making them suitable for older children.
How long do Maltese live?
The Maltese typically enjoy a healthy lifespan of 12 to 15 years.
How much does a Maltese cost?
Prices vary widely depending on the breeder’s reputation and the puppy’s lineage, generally ranging from $600 to $2,000. Adoption from Maltese rescue organizations offers a more affordable alternative.
How big do Maltese get?
Adult Maltese weigh less than 7 pounds and stand between 7 and 9 inches tall at the shoulder.
Should I buy a teacup Maltese?
Avoid teacup Maltese. The breed is already petite, and breeders advertising tiny “teacup” varieties often prioritize size over health, which can lead to serious medical issues. Only work with reputable breeders who prioritize the well-being of their dogs.
