Maltese

The Maltese is one of the oldest toy breeds in existence, and its appeal has not faded in over two thousand years of recorded history. Beneath that cascading white silk coat lives a surprisingly bold, playful, and clever dog that bonds intensely with its owner. Daily life with a Maltese revolves around companionship — they want to be on your lap, at your feet, or in your arms, and they do not handle long stretches alone well. Their small size makes them natural apartment dogs, and their exercise needs are modest: a couple of short walks and interactive play sessions suffice. Training is generally straightforward because they are eager to please, though housetraining can test your patience — small bladders and a preference for indoor comfort mean crate training and consistent schedules are essential. The coat is high-maintenance: without daily brushing, it tangles into painful mats within days, and tear staining around the eyes requires regular cleaning. Maltese can be nippy with small children who handle them roughly, so they fit best with older kids or adult-only households. They are also prone to dental disease, so daily tooth brushing is not optional. For someone seeking a devoted, portable, and genuinely entertaining small dog who will be a constant shadow, the Maltese delivers — just be prepared for the grooming commitment.

History

The Maltese traces its lineage to the central Mediterranean, with references appearing in Greek, Roman, and Egyptian art and literature as far back as 500 BC. The breed was a favorite of Roman matrons and Greek philosophers alike — Aristotle described it as 'perfectly proportioned.' Throughout the Middle Ages and Renaissance, Maltese were prized by European royalty and the wealthy merchant class. The breed arrived in America in the late 1800s and received AKC recognition in 1888, making it one of the earliest toy breeds registered.

Size
Toy
Weight
1.5–3.5 kg
Height
18–25 cm
Lifespan
12–15 years

Characteristics

Energy Level
Grooming
Shedding
Trainability
Barking

Compatibility

✓
Kids
✓
Other Dogs
✓
Strangers
✓
Apartments
✓
First-time Owners

Care Guide

The Maltese's single-layer silk coat lacks an undercoat, which means minimal shedding but maximum tangling — daily brushing with a pin brush and fine comb is non-negotiable for a long coat, or a short puppy cut every 4-6 weeks dramatically simplifies maintenance. Tear staining is common; daily wiping with a damp cloth or specialized eye wipe and keeping facial hair trimmed prevents buildup. Dental disease is the breed's biggest hidden cost — daily brushing with enzymatic toothpaste and annual professional cleanings are strongly recommended. Exercise is light: two 15-20 minute walks and some fetch or puzzle toys indoors. Maltese are sensitive to cold and damp, so a sweater in winter and indoor potty options for bad weather days are practical considerations.

Common Health Issues

  • Patellar Luxation
    The kneecap slides out of alignment, causing intermittent lameness or a bunny-hopping gait in the hind legs. Weight management is crucial for prevention, and surgical repair is effective for persistent or high-grade luxation.
  • Patent Ductus Arteriosus
    A congenital heart defect where a blood vessel that should close after birth remains open, forcing the heart to work harder and potentially leading to heart failure. Early detection through a heart murmur during puppy exams allows for surgical correction with a high success rate.
  • Hypoglycemia
    Low blood sugar episodes are common in Maltese puppies and small adults, causing lethargy, trembling, and in severe cases, seizures. Prevention involves feeding small, frequent meals throughout the day and keeping corn syrup on hand for emergencies.
  • Tracheal Collapse
    The cartilage rings supporting the windpipe weaken and flatten, causing a distinctive honking cough, especially during excitement or exercise. Using a harness instead of a collar, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding airway irritants are key management strategies.