Maltese: Temperament, Size, Lifespan & Care

Maltese temperament and personality

The AKC rates the Maltese five out of five for affection with family and describes the breed as hardy and adaptable despite its aristocratic look. Maltese make alert little watchdogs, fearless in a charming toy-dog way, and are happy to make new friends.

They are true companion dogs. VCA notes limited tolerance for being left alone and a preference for company, so a Maltese suits a home where someone is around for much of the day. Many enjoy dog sports such as agility and obedience.

How big do Maltese get?

The AKC lists the Maltese at 7 to 9 inches tall and under 7 pounds, with no separate figures by sex. Beneath the long, straight, silky white coat is a compact body that moves smoothly and easily.

Because they are so small, Maltese are easily injured by falls or being stepped on, and VCA notes they are sensitive to cold. Be wary of teacup labels, which are not an AKC size; very tiny dogs can be more fragile and, as VCA notes, small puppies are at risk of low blood sugar.

Maltese lifespan and common health issues

The AKC gives a Maltese lifespan of 12 to 15 years and says the breed usually lives well into double digits. VCA calls dental disease one of the most common issues in Maltese, often starting early, and says daily dental care is essential.

The AKC says responsible breeders screen for luxating patella and heart anomalies such as patent ductus arteriosus, and recommends bile-acid testing in puppies to rule out liver shunt. VCA also lists tracheal collapse and heart valve disease. A honking cough, skipping on a back leg or bad breath with red gums are all worth a vet visit. Ask breeders for patella, cardiac and bile-acid results.

Exercise needs

The AKC says Maltese are full of energy but need only occasional exercise; daily walks or play in a fenced yard, or even indoors, usually keep them fit. That makes them a good fit for apartment living and for less active owners.

Keep walks gentle in extreme weather and use a small-dog harness rather than a collar to protect the windpipe. Short games of fetch and training sessions give mental exercise too.

Maltese grooming and shedding

The AKC says the long white coat needs daily gentle brushing and combing to the skin to prevent mats and tangles, along with regular baths and conditioning. Many pet owners keep a shorter puppy clip, which is far easier and still needs brushing a few times a week.

Shedding is low, one out of five on the AKC scale. Low shedding appeals to some allergy sufferers, but no dog breed is allergen-free. The AKC advises trimming fast-growing nails, checking ears weekly and brushing the teeth often, ideally whenever you brush the coat. Ask your vet about heavy tear staining, which can have a medical cause.

Training a Maltese

The AKC describes Maltese as very intelligent and notes they have learned over centuries how to get exactly what they want from their people. They can be stubborn, but they respond well to positive training methods and consistency.

House training often takes patience, as with many toy breeds. Use a regular schedule and plenty of praise. Practice handling, brushing and tooth care as part of training from puppyhood, so grooming stays calm and quick.

Are Maltese good with kids and other pets?

The AKC rates the Maltese three out of five with young children, and VCA says they do best with gentle, respectful children. A small child can easily drop or squeeze a dog this size, so homes with older, calm children are a better fit.

With other dogs the AKC rating is also three out of five, and VCA says they are usually compatible with proper introduction. Choose gentle canine companions of similar size, and supervise play with bigger dogs.

What a Maltese needs at home

Grooming tools come first: a pin brush, a fine metal comb, a gentle dog shampoo and conditioner, nail clippers and a dog toothbrush. Add a lightweight mesh harness, a soft bed with a headboard, a sweater for cold weather and pet steps for furniture.

Baby gates keep a tiny dog safe from stairs, and a carrier makes vet trips easier. Book a vet visit soon after bringing your Maltese home and ask about a dental care plan and the kneecap check.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.