Maltese

also known as Maltese lion dog, Maltese Dog

Pros History


The breed's name, "Maltese," is thought to have originated from the island of Malta, where the breed was first recognized. The Maltese has been depicted in ancient art and literature, with the earliest known reference to the breed dating back to ancient Greece. The breed was also a favorite of the ancient Romans and was often given as gifts to royalty and other high-ranking officials.

The Maltese's popularity spread throughout Europe during the Middle Ages, and the breed was often depicted in paintings and sculptures of the time. The breed was also a favorite of the wealthy and elite, and many historic figures, such as Queen Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots, were known to be fans of the breed.

The Maltese was first recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1888. Since then, it has been a beloved companion and show dog for many families. The breed's small size and affectionate nature make it a popular choice for apartment dwellers and people with limited space.

The breed's development has been relatively consistent over time. The Maltese is a small, elegant dog with a long, silky white coat. They are known for their intelligence and trainability, and they excel in a variety of activities, including obedience, agility, and therapy work.

In addition to the AKC, the Maltese is also recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) and the American Maltese Association (AMA). The UKC first recognized the breed in 1933.

Breed Information


Type

Is Maltese a purebred?

Purebred

Purpose

What were Malteses originally used for?

companion, comforter

Lifespan

How Long Do Malteses Live? What is average life expectancy for a Maltese? How long can Malteses live?

15-18 years

The average Maltese lifespan is somewhere between 15-18 years, provided they aren't beset by any exceptional health issues or injuries.

Maltese Height & Weight


How big is a full grown Maltese?

What is the average height of a Maltese? How big is a Purebred Maltese height? Maltese dog height:
Height
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 9-10 inches (22.9 - 25.4 cm) 7.0 inches (17.8 cm) 8.0 inches (20.3 cm) 9.5 inches (24.1 cm)
Female 8-10 inches (20.3 - 25.4 cm) 6.0 inches (15.2 cm) 7.0 inches (17.8 cm) 9.0 inches (22.9 cm)
What is the average weight of a Maltese? How much should Malteses weigh?
Weight
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 4-7 pounds (2 - 3 kg) 3.0 pounds (1 kg) 4.0 pounds (2 kg) 5.5 pounds (2 kg)
Female 4-7 pounds (2 - 3 kg) 3.0 pounds (1 kg) 4.0 pounds (2 kg) 5.5 pounds (2 kg)
Weight Gain Potential

Do Malteses get fat easily?

The Maltese is a breed that has an average risk of becoming obese. Daily walks and a balanced diet of quality dry dog food can help maintain a healthy weight. An active lifestyle and monitoring weight regularly is recommended.

Hypoallergenic

Are Malteses Hypoallergenic?

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Malteses are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What is a Maltese personality? What are Maltese dogs best known for?

Active
Easygoing
Intelligent
Responsive
Docile
Gentle
Playful
Sweet
Tempered

Shedding Level

Are Malteses heavy shedders? How Much Does a Maltese Shed?

Maltese will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.

Watchdog Ability

What is the watchdog ability of a Maltese dog?

The Maltese dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, this breed will alert their owner.

Breed History


Origin

Where do Malteses come from?

Malta

Ancestry

What are Malteses descended from?

terrier

Breed recognition

What organizations or kennel clubs recognize/register the Maltese breed?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

Date of Birth

When were Malteses first bred? How old is the Maltese breed?

ancient times

Breed Group

What Breed Group is a Maltese?

Toy (AKC:1888)
Companion Breed & Show Breed (UKC)

Maltese Appearance


Eye Color Possibilites

What color are Maltese eyes?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What color can Maltese nose be naturally?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What color can Maltese coat be naturally?

White

Coat Length

How long is a Malteses coat?

The coat of a Maltese dog is generally known for its length.

Coat Density

How Dense Is The Maltese Coat?

Coat Texture

What is the texture of the hair of a Maltese?

Straight

Litter Size

How many puppies can a Maltese have in a litter? How many puppies can a Maltese have in her first litter?

15-18 puppies per pregnancy

A Maltese can have a litter of 15-18 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Malteses are known for their adaptability and versatility, they are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments. They are a highly adaptable breed, and make great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Maltese Health Issues


Health Issues

Do Malteses have a lot of health problems?

The Maltese is generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns to be aware of when owning a Maltese?

Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Obesity

Minor Concerns

What are the less significant issues to keep in mind when it comes to Malteses?

Mono/Bilateral Cryptorchidism
Hydrocephalus
Dental Disease
Portosystemic Shunt
Shaker Dog Syndrome

Occasional Tests

What are the occasional tests recommended for Maltese breed?

Eye
Knee
Liver Ultrasound
CT Scan
Dental Examination
Physical Examination

Maltese Needs and Activities


Energy

Do Malteses have a lot of energy?

For those who lead a balanced lifestyle, Malteses may be a good choice as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Do Malteses need socialization? How social are Malteses?

Maltese have very high social needs. These needs include regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

How much exercise should Malteses get?

The Maltese is a breed that requires minimal physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

How much sleep should a Maltese have? Do Malteses sleep a lot?

The Maltese breed is known for its moderate energy levels and normal sleep patterns, typically sleeping around 12-14 hours per day.

Drooling Tendency

Does a Maltese drool a lot?

The Maltese is a breed of dog that is characterized by its minimal drooling, making it an ideal choice for people who dislike drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

How much does it bark?

Maltese dogs bark and howl frequently, they are not a good fit for quiet homes.

Territorial

Do Malteses exhibit aggressive behavior to safeguard their home and territory? Do they possess a natural tendency to guard?

These dogs are known for their strong territorial instinct and protective nature. They will fiercely defend their territory and are highly alert and vigilant against any perceived threat to their home and family.

Mouthiness

Are Malteses mouthy?

Roaming urge

What is the likelihood of a Maltese running away? Do they have a tendency to explore or wander frequently?

Prey Drive

Do Maltese dogs have a high prey drive?

Past times

What do Malteses enjoy doing? How do I keep my Maltese busy?

Walk, Cuddle, Sleep, Walking, Petting, Sniffing, Exploring, Playing, Running, Snuggle, Chasing, Wrestling, Being cute, Playdate, Go to Park, Frisbee, Swim, Chase, Bath time, Hide & Seek, Off-leash, Eating Snacks, Tag

Activity Level

What is the energy level of a Maltese? How much energy does a Maltese have?

Medium

Malteses are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How far should a Maltese walk each week? How many miles should a Maltese walk every week?

6 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Maltese, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

How much a Maltese should exercise a day? How much activity does a Maltese need?

60 minutes

In general most Malteses usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

What level of grooming should be provided for a Maltese?

The Maltese is a breed of dog that requires an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

How often should you brush a Maltese?

Daily

Ideally, Maltese should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What are the most commonly used brushing tools for Malteses?

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Costs


Cups

How many cups of food does a Maltese eat?

1 cups

For an average 4-7 pound (2 - 3 kg) Maltese feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

How Much Does a Maltese Cost Daily?

$1.40 - $1.80 / day

The average cost of a Maltese is somewhere $1.40 - $1.80 per day.

Monthly Cost

How Much Does a Maltese Cost Per Month?

$42 - $53 / month

The average per month expenses of a Maltese is between $42 - $53. This makes an average of $504 - $636 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Maltese Characteristic


Intelligence

How intelligent is a Maltese?

The Maltese have below the average degree of obedience intelligence among other breeds. However, calling them “dumb dogs” is unfair. Where Malteses lack in obedience & working intelligence, they make up for it with their keen ability to understand human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How sensitive is a Maltese dog?

This dog breed is more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. They need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Are Maltese dogs affectionate?

Apartment Friendly

Do Maltese do well in apartments? Are Malteses good indoor dogs?

Malteses are known for being excellent apartment dogs. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Child Friendly

Are Malteses good with kids? Are Malteses good around children?

Malteses are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Are Malteses good for elderly?

Cat Friendly

Are Malteses good with cats? How friendly Malteses are toward cats?

Malteses are very cat friendly dogs. They generally make good companions for cats.

Dog Friendly

Do Maltese dogs get along with other dogs? Are Malteses OK with other dogs?

Malteses are very friendly towards other dogs. This breed typically have a happy and affectionate temperament around dogs.

Pet friendly

How do Maltese dogs interact with other pets? Are they considered pet-friendly?

Stranger Friendly

Are Malteses friendly with strangers?

Malteses are very friendly around strangers.

Playfulness

Do Malteses like to play? Are Malteses playful?

Malteses have an average level of playfulness. The Malteses, like other dogs, like to play. But they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

Are Maltese easily trained?

Maltese dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.

Pros Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Affectionate
    These dogs are known for their affection towards their owners and make great companions.
  • Adaptable
    They can adapt to a variety of living situations, including apartments and homes with small yards.
  • Cat Friendly
    Malteses are inclined to be accepting of cats.
  • Hypoallergenic
    With their low tendency to cause allergic reactions, Malteses are a great choice for those who suffers from allergies.
  • Good with children
    They are known to be good with children.

Cons

  • Not suitable for office environment
    Malteses may not thrive in an office setting
  • Barking
    This breed of dog has a reputation for being loud.
  • Grooming
    Their long, silky coat requires regular grooming to maintain its appearance.