Maltese Breed Guide
Also known as: Bichon Maltiase, Maltese Lion Dog
Ancient Mediterranean companions, Maltese are gentle toy dogs whose silky white coats and sweet temperaments have charmed royalty for centuries.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Toy
Weight
3-3 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Low
Size
Toy
Weight
3-3 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Low
About Malteses
The Maltese is an ancient breed that originated in the Mediterranean region over 2,000 years ago, with the island of Malta being its primary development location. These small toy dogs were prised by ancient civilisations including the Greeks and Romans as companions for noble women.
Maltese are small dogs with long, silky white coats that flow to the ground. They're known for their dark, expressive eyes, black button noses, and confident, fearless personalities despite their tiny size.
These dogs are affectionate, intelligent, and make excellent companions for those who appreciate small dogs. They're generally good with older children but may be too fragile for very young children. Their coats require daily brushing and regular professional grooming to maintain their appearance. While generally healthy, potential concerns include luxating patella, dental problems, and certain genetic conditions. Early socialisation helps ensure they're well-adjusted around strangers and other pets.
Complete Care Guide for Malteses
Expert advice on keeping your Maltese healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Providing optimal nutrition for your Maltese requires careful attention to their unique dietary needs. These small but energetic dogs thrive on high-quality protein sources such as chicken, beef, or fish, which help maintain their lean muscle mass and sustain their characteristic vivacity throughout the day.
Due to their petite stature, Maltese benefit from smaller, calorie-dense meals that deliver maximum nutritional value without unnecessary bulk. Incorporating easily digestible carbohydrates like brown rice, barley, and select vegetables supports their digestive health while providing sustained energy levels. Essential fats, particularly Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, play a crucial role in maintaining their luxurious coat and promoting healthy skin condition.
When selecting commercial dog food, opt for premium formulations specifically designed for small breeds, ensuring they're free from unnecessary fillers that could contribute to weight gain. Portion control is particularly important for Maltese, as their small size means they require relatively modest amounts of food to meet their nutritional needs. Establishing a consistent feeding schedule with measured portions helps prevent overfeeding while ensuring your Maltese receives adequate nutrition for their active lifestyle.
How healthy is your Maltese?
A two minute quiz for your personalised results and health plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Malteses from our community of pet parents
Maltese dogs are known for their affectionate and playful nature. They have a lot of energy, are highly sociable, and love being the centre of attention. Their friendly disposition makes them great companions and they are generally quite good with children and other pets. However, they can be a bit stubborn at times, so consistent, positive reinforcement training methods work best.
Dog Breeds Similar to Maltese
Explore breeds with comparable temperament, size, and care requirements to the Maltese
