Maltese

The Maltese is a tiny, elegant companion breed from the Mediterranean with a long, silky white coat and a gentle, affectionate nature. The Maltese is loving, playful and calm, a devoted family dog that loves children, other dogs and being part of everything.

Quick Facts

• Origin: Mediterranean (Malta)
• Group: Toy / Companion
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Weight: 2–4 kg
• Height: 18–23 cm at the shoulder
• Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, playful, calm
• Good with kids: Yes — best with older children, with supervision
• Good with other pets: Yes, usually friendly with other dogs and cats
• Exercise needs: Moderate — about 30 minutes to 1 hour a day
• Grooming: High — long silky coat, regular brushing

Temperament & Personality

Maltese are gentle, affectionate and deeply loyal to their family. They bond closely with their people, love children, and are usually good with other dogs. They are happy, playful dogs that love to be part of everything. They are companion dogs through and through: they are calm indoors, love to cuddle, and follow their people from room to room. They can be stubborn, so training needs patience and consistency. They love company and do not like being left alone for long — a bored Maltese will bark and chew.

Health

Maltese are generally healthy and long-lived. Known issues include kneecap problems (patellar luxation), eye problems (tear staining is very common), dental problems, liver shunt (a serious condition in puppies), and White Dog Shaker Syndrome (a trembling disorder). Buy from a breeder who health-tests the parents, and see the vet regularly.

Training

Maltese are intelligent and quick to learn — training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards. Short, fun, reward-based sessions work best, and early socialisation helps them stay confident with strangers, children and other dogs. House-training can take time, so be patient. Harsh methods damage trust.

Food & Nutrition

A Maltese needs a good-quality complete food in measured meals — two to three small meals a day suit most adults. Treats should be counted as part of the daily intake. Maltese are tiny dogs and should stay lean — you should be able to feel the ribs easily. A vet can advise the right amount for your dog’s age and weight, and fresh water should always be available.

Grooming

The Maltese’s long, silky coat needs brushing daily if kept long, or clipping short every few months for an easier life. Baths only when dirty. The white coat stains easily around the eyes and mouth, so keep those areas clean. The ears should be checked weekly, nails trimmed regularly, and teeth brushed daily — small breeds are prone to dental problems. Maltese shed lightly.

Exercise

A Maltese needs about 30 minutes to 1 hour of activity a day: walks, play and training games, plus mental work such as scent games and puzzle feeders. They are tiny dogs with moderate energy — a Maltese needs to walk and think every day. Without it, expect barking, chewing and restlessness.

Is the Maltese Right for You?

The Maltese suits families who want a gentle, affectionate companion and can give it exercise, training and regular grooming. It does well in flats and houses alike. It is less suited to owners who dislike grooming, or homes with very small children and rough play.

FAQs

Are Maltese good for first-time owners?

Yes, for a patient first-time owner. They are friendly and trainable, but their grooming needs and house-training surprise many new owners.

Do Maltese shed a lot?

Lightly. Their long coat sheds very little but needs daily care.

How much exercise does a Maltese need every day?

About 30 minutes to 1 hour of walks and play, plus training to keep the mind busy.

Related Breeds

Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu