Maltese
Updated December 2, 2025
The Maltese is a gentle and fearless toy dog known for its luxurious white coat. They are playful and charming companions who bond deeply with their owners, excelling as both a loving lapdog and a spirited, alert watchdog.
Playful, Charming, Gentle, Affectionate, Lively
4-7 pounds
7-9 inches
12-15 years
White
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Maltese
The Maltese is a gentle and fearless toy dog known for its luxurious white coat. They are playful and charming companions who bond deeply with their owners, excelling as both a loving lapdog and a spirited, alert watchdog.
What Makes Malteses Special
The Maltese is the aristocrat of the toy dog world. With a glamorous, floor-length white coat, they are the picture of elegance. But beneath the show-dog exterior is a sprightly, playful, and deeply affectionate companion.
They are famous for their charming personalities and their ability to stay puppy-like well into their senior years. A Maltese is happy to be your shadow, following you from room to room and showering you with love.
Maltese History & Origin
The Maltese is an ancient breed, with a history that can be traced back for centuries. Originating from the island of Malta in the Mediterranean, these dogs were prized by royalty and nobility across the ancient world for their beauty and companionship.
The breed has been known by many names, including the 'Melitae Dog,' 'Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta,' and the 'Roman Ladies' Dog.'
Aristotle mentioned the breed in 370 B.C., attesting to its ancient lineage.
Maltese were introduced to the United States in the late 1800s and were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888.
The cost for a Maltese puppy from a reputable breeder typically ranges from $1,500 to $4,000, reflecting their popularity and the care required in breeding.
Adopting a Maltese from a rescue organization is also a wonderful option. Many rescues specialize in small breeds and have Maltese or Maltese-mixes looking for loving homes.
Maltese Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Maltese Appearance
The Maltese carries itself with a proud and graceful gait. Their compact body is covered in a mantle of long, silky white hair that gives them a distinguished look.
Their most defining features are their dark, expressive eyes and black 'gumdrop' nose, which provide a striking contrast to their pure white coat. This combination creates a gentle and endearing expression that captures hearts.
Physical Features
Ears
Maltese have long, pendant ears that are heavily feathered and hang close to the head.
Eyes
Their eyes are very dark, round, and set not too far apart. The black eye rims enhance their expressive, gentle look.
Nose
The nose is small, distinctly black, and button-like.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
Maltese have a single coat (no undercoat) of long, silky, straight white hair that should hang to the ground. It is hypoallergenic.
Coat Color
Pure white is the standard and required color for the Maltese. While slight lemon or tan markings are sometimes seen, they are undesirable in the show ring.
Tail
The Maltese has a long-haired plume of a tail that is carried gracefully over the back.
Maltese Temperament
The Maltese is a classic lap dog, known for being sweet, playful, and charming. They thrive on human companionship and are known to form incredibly strong bonds with their families.
Despite their delicate appearance, Maltese are vigorous and full of life. They excel as alert watchdogs and will readily bark at strangers or unfamiliar sounds, though they are too small and friendly to be effective guard dogs.
Their gentle and trusting nature makes them great companions for single people, couples, and seniors. Due to their small size and fragile build, they are generally better suited for homes with older, respectful children rather than toddlers.
Maltese are intelligent and can be trained, but they can also have a stubborn streak. Early socialization and consistent, gentle training are key to raising a well-behaved adult. They are known for their bursts of energy and enjoy playing games indoors.
Ultimately, the Maltese is a companion animal through and through. They are happiest when they are at the center of their family's attention, whether that's cuddling on the couch or showing off a new trick.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Maltese are generally healthy dogs with a long lifespan of 12-15 years. However, like all purebreds, they are prone to certain genetic health conditions. Awareness of these issues can help in early detection and treatment.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular vet checkups, diligent dental care, proper nutrition, and choosing a reputable breeder can help ensure a long, healthy life.
How to Care for a Maltese
Maltese are high-maintenance in the grooming department but have relatively low exercise needs. Their primary requirement is being with their people, making them an indoor dog that thrives on attention and care.
Grooming
The Maltese's long, white coat requires daily, gentle brushing and combing down to the skin to prevent mats and tangles. Many owners opt for a shorter 'puppy cut' for easier maintenance.
They are prone to tear staining around the eyes, so daily wiping of the eye area with a damp cloth is necessary to keep their face clean and white.
Bathing should be done weekly or bi-weekly with a quality dog shampoo and conditioner to keep their coat healthy and clean.
Regular dental care is crucial, as small breeds are prone to dental problems. Ears should be checked and cleaned weekly to prevent infections.
Training
Maltese are intelligent and generally eager to please, but they can be difficult to house-train. Crate training and a consistent schedule are highly recommended.
Use positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, play, and treats. They are sensitive and do not respond well to harsh training methods.
Early socialization is vital to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adults who are not overly yappy or fearful of new people and situations.
Diet
The best food for a Maltese is a high-quality commercial dog food formulated for toy breeds. Their dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and into their senior years.
Because of their small size, they can be prone to obesity if overfed. Stick to proper portion sizes and limit treats.
Due to their propensity for dental issues, a combination of dry kibble (to help scrape plaque) and regular teeth brushing is recommended. Always provide access to fresh, clean water.
Exercise
Maltese do not require a great deal of exercise. They are satisfied with short daily walks and indoor playtime.
Despite their low exercise needs, they have playful bursts of energy and enjoy games like fetch in a hallway or interactive puzzle toys.
They are not built for strenuous activities like long runs or rough outdoor hikes. They get their exercise needs met easily within the confines of a home or apartment.
Environment
The Maltese is the quintessential indoor dog and is perfectly suited for apartment living. They do not tolerate extreme heat or cold well and should not be left outdoors unattended.
A secure yard is a bonus for safe play, but it is not a requirement as long as they get daily walks and indoor activity.
Their primary environmental need is to be with their human family. They can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, so they are best for households where someone is usually home.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
Ideal for apartments and smaller homes; does not need a large yard.
Climate Adaptability
Adaptable but prefers temperate climates; must be protected from extreme cold and heat.
Apartment Living
An excellent choice for apartment dwellers due to their small size and low exercise needs.
Best Suited For
Best suited for seniors, singles, or families with older children who can give them lots of attention.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Maltese hypoallergenic?
Yes, Maltese have a single coat of hair, not fur, and shed very little, making them a great choice for people with allergies.
Do Maltese bark a lot?
Maltese can be prone to barking as they are alert watchdogs. Early training can help manage this behavior.
Are Maltese good with children?
Due to their small and fragile size, Maltese are recommended for families with older, respectful children rather than toddlers, who might accidentally injure them.
How much grooming do Maltese need?
Maltese require extensive grooming, including daily brushing, regular baths, and cleaning of their eyes to prevent tear stains.
Are Maltese hard to potty train?
Maltese can be notoriously difficult to house-train. Patience, consistency, and a strict schedule are essential for success.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early socialization, consistent housetraining, and gentle handling are key.
Senior Care
Increased focus on dental health, joint support, and regular vet check-ups for age-related issues.
First-Time Owner Tips
A good choice for novice owners, provided they are prepared for the extensive grooming requirements.
Looking for a Maltese?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.