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Maltese: The Complete Breed Guide

A complete guide to Malteses: temperament, health, exercise, training, and how to find a reputable breeder. Built by working breeders, not by SEO.

A Maltese

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Maltese: The Complete Breed Guide

The Maltese is one of the oldest toy breeds in the world, with a documented history stretching back more than 2,000 years. Ancient Greeks built tombs for their Maltese. Romans called them "the comforter." This is a breed that has been a dedicated companion animal for longer than most breeds have existed at all.

Today the Maltese remains exactly what it has always been -- a small, gentle, affectionate dog bred to be close to its person. They have a stunning silky white coat that does not shed, a playful personality that lasts well into old age, and a devotion to their owner that borders on obsessive. They are one of the best apartment dogs in the world, but they come with real needs that you should understand before bringing one home.

Maltese Quick Facts

BreedMaltese
Other namesMaltese Lion Dog, Bichon Maltaise
Size7-9 inches, 4-7 lbs
Lifespan12-15 years
CoatLong, silky, single-layer white -- hypoallergenic
TemperamentGentle, playful, affectionate, devoted
ExerciseLow -- short walks and indoor play
Good with kidsBest with older, gentle children
TrainabilityModerate -- eager to please but can be stubborn
AKC GroupToy

Is a Maltese Right for You?

A Maltese might be right if you:

  • Want a gentle, affectionate lap dog
  • Live in an apartment or small space
  • Have allergies or want minimal shedding
  • Are home frequently or work from home
  • Want a dog with a long lifespan
  • Enjoy grooming and coat maintenance

A Maltese might not be right if you:

  • Are away from home for long hours
  • Have toddlers or rough-playing children
  • Do not want to deal with tear staining maintenance
  • Want a low-grooming breed
  • Need a dog that tolerates being alone well
  • Prefer a sturdy, rough-and-tumble dog

Health Watch: Liver Shunts

Maltese are predisposed to portosystemic liver shunts -- a condition where blood bypasses the liver, allowing toxins to build up in the bloodstream. Symptoms include stunted growth, disorientation after eating, seizures, and excessive thirst. It can be present from birth or develop later. Early detection through blood work is critical. If your Maltese puppy seems unusually small, lethargic after meals, or fails to thrive, ask your vet to test liver function immediately.

Is your Maltese at a healthy weight?

At 4-7 pounds, even a few ounces of extra weight matters for joint health and heart function.

Weight Calculator

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are Maltese hypoallergenic?
Maltese are considered hypoallergenic because they have a single-layer silky coat with no undercoat, which means they shed very little. They produce less dander than most breeds, making them more tolerable for allergy sufferers. No dog is 100% hypoallergenic, but Maltese are consistently ranked among the best breeds for people with allergies. Regular bathing and grooming further reduces allergen levels.
Why do Maltese get tear stains?
Tear staining -- those reddish-brown streaks under the eyes -- is extremely common in Maltese because of their white coat and facial structure. Their shallow eye sockets and small tear ducts cause tears to overflow onto the face rather than draining normally. The reddish color comes from porphyrins, a natural compound in tears. Keeping the face clean and dry, using filtered water, and avoiding food with red dyes can help reduce staining. Some dogs need daily face cleaning throughout their lives.
Do Maltese have separation anxiety?
Maltese are more prone to separation anxiety than most breeds. They were bred specifically as companion dogs and form extremely strong bonds with their owners. When left alone, they may bark excessively, chew destructively, or have house-training accidents. Crate training from puppyhood, gradual alone-time conditioning, and avoiding dramatic departures and arrivals can help. If you work long hours away from home, a Maltese may not be the right choice unless you can arrange midday visits or doggy daycare.
How big do Maltese get?
Adult Maltese typically weigh 4 to 7 pounds and stand 7 to 9 inches tall at the shoulder. The AKC breed standard favors 4 to 6 pounds as the ideal weight. Maltese advertised as "teacup" (under 4 pounds) are not a separate variety -- they are undersized dogs that often come with serious health problems including fragile bones, hypoglycemia, and organ defects. A reputable breeder breeds to the standard, not below it.
How long do Maltese live?
Maltese have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years, with many living well into their mid-teens when properly cared for. Their longevity is typical of small companion breeds. The biggest threats to their health are dental disease (which can lead to systemic infections), heart conditions (patent ductus arteriosus and mitral valve disease), and liver shunts. Regular dental care and annual veterinary checkups are essential to catching problems early.