Maltese
GentlePlayfulCharming
Malta (Mediterranean) · 12–15 years
About the Maltese
The Maltese is one of the oldest toy breeds, with a history spanning at least 2,000 years in the Mediterranean region. These tiny, white dogs were favored by royalty and aristocracy throughout European history, from ancient Greek nobles to the courts of Henry VIII. The Maltese is defined by their stunning floor-length white silk coat, dark expressive eyes, and gentle, playful personality. Despite their delicate appearance, Maltese are surprisingly sturdy, fearless, and athletic for their size. They are devoted lap dogs that thrive on human companionship and attention.
Breed stats
- Height
- 7–9 in
- Weight
- 4–7 lbs
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Group
- Toy
- Coat
- Long, silky, straight, single coat
- Origin
- Malta (Mediterranean)
Coat colors
- White
Temperament & ratings
Compatibility
Exercise & feeding
Daily exercise
20–30 min
per day recommended
Daily food
0.25–0.5 cups
high-quality dry food
Common health issues
- Patellar luxation
- Patent ductus arteriosus
- Portosystemic shunt
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Dental disease
Not every Maltese will develop these conditions, but awareness helps with early detection. Regular veterinary checkups and choosing a responsible breeder who health-tests their dogs are the best preventive measures.
Can Malteses eat...
- Can dogs eat blueberries?Safe
- Can dogs eat grapes?Toxic
- Can dogs eat bananas?Safe
- Can dogs eat chocolate?Toxic
- Can dogs eat watermelon?Safe
- Can dogs eat cheese?Caution
- Can dogs eat almonds?Caution
- Can dogs eat apples?Safe
Frequently Asked Questions
- Maltese are one of the top breeds recommended for allergy sufferers. They have a single-layer coat of long, silky hair (no undercoat) that sheds very minimally. Their hair is more similar in texture to human hair than typical dog fur, producing less airborne dander. Many people with mild to moderate dog allergies can tolerate living with a Maltese comfortably. However, no breed is 100% hypoallergenic, as allergens also come from saliva and urine. Regular bathing and grooming further reduce allergen levels. Keeping the coat trimmed in a shorter style makes maintenance easier and minimizes dander.
- Tear staining is very common in Maltese due to their white coat making the reddish-brown staining highly visible. The staining is caused by porphyrins — iron-containing molecules in tears and saliva that turn reddish-brown when exposed to air and light. Contributing factors include excess tearing from eye irritation, blocked tear ducts, allergies, or dental issues. Daily cleaning of the eye area with a damp cloth or specialized tear stain remover helps manage staining. Using filtered water, stainless steel food bowls, and addressing underlying causes like allergies or dental disease can reduce tear production.
- A Maltese in full show coat requires daily brushing and combing to prevent mats, regular bathing every one to two weeks, and careful attention to the topknot and facial hair. This level of maintenance is very time-consuming. Most pet owners opt for a shorter puppy cut or teddy bear trim, which reduces daily grooming significantly — brushing two to three times per week is usually sufficient with a short cut. Professional grooming every four to six weeks is recommended regardless of coat length. Daily face cleaning to prevent tear staining and regular dental care are also essential parts of Maltese grooming.
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