Is This the Right Breed for You?
✔ Excellent Match For
- Apartment dwellers and those seeking a portable, adaptable companion
- Owners who enjoy grooming and maintaining a beautiful white coat
- Those with allergies (Maltese are considered hypoallergenic)
• Affectionate nature: thrives on lap time and human companionship.
• Low exercise needs: short walks and indoor play keep them happy.
• Long lifespan: often lives 12-15+ years with proper care.
✖ Consider Carefully If
- You're not prepared for daily brushing and regular professional grooming
- You have very young, rough children (small size makes them fragile)
- You're looking for a low-maintenance, wash-and-go dog
• Housebreaking challenges: small bladders can make potty training difficult.
• Can be barky: may alert bark at noises if not trained.
• Tear staining: white coat requires regular cleaning around eyes.
Owner Suitability
The Maltese is a gentle, affectionate companion that thrives on human connection and lap time. Their small size and low exercise needs make them adaptable to various living situations, but their beautiful white coat requires significant grooming commitment. Best suited for owners who can provide daily brushing, regular professional grooming, and the attention this people-oriented breed craves.Stats:
- Height: 7-9 inches
- Weight: 4-7 pounds
- Coat: Long, silky, straight white hair
- Colors: Pure white (light tan/lemon markings permitted)
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
Note: Maltese are considered hypoallergenic due to their non-shedding coat, but regular grooming is essential.
Origin & History
The Maltese is one of the oldest toy breeds, with a history dating back at least 2,000 years. Originating from the Mediterranean island of Malta, these dogs were prized by aristocrats and royalty throughout history, including figures like Mary Queen of Scots and Queen Elizabeth I.
The Maltese was bred as a companion dog and lap warmer. Their small size and beautiful white coat made them favorites among nobility across Europe.
Today, the Maltese remains a popular companion dog, valued for its affectionate nature, portability, and hypoallergenic coat that doesn't shed like other breeds.
| Traits: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Energy: Moderate energy; enjoys short walks and play | ✓ | ||||
| Easy To Train: Intelligent but can be stubborn; responds to positive training | ✓ | ||||
| Shedding: Very Low; long, silky hair releases minimal fur. | ✓ | ||||
| Grooming: High maintenance; requires daily brushing | ✓ | ||||
| Family Dog: Good with gentle children; best for quieter homes | ✓ | ||||
| Watchdog: Excellent alert dog; will bark at strangers | ✓ | ||||
| Beginner Friendly: Good for novice owners willing to commit to grooming | ✓ | ||||
| Prey Drive: Minimal; generally gets along with other pets | ✓ | ||||
| Barking: Can be vocal; tendency to bark at noises | ✓ | ||||
| Good with other dogs: Good, but early socialization is important | ✓ |
Health Concerns:
- Patellar Luxation: Common in small breeds
- Portosystemic Shunt: Liver condition
Please check the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) and parent breed clubs for health information.
Glossary of general canine health conditions.