Let's talk Malteses

Notable for their show-stopping coat, small stature and super-cute features, the Maltese is also a friendly, easy-going breed of dog. Renowned as excellent companion animals, they form strong bonds with their owners and make great company. One of the tiniest of the toy breeds, with a top height of just 9in (23cm), this also makes the Maltese the ideal sizeto snuggle up in your lap. No wonder they have been a favourite with everyone from royalty to Hollywood A-listers.

Official name: Maltese

Other names: Melitae Dog, Roman Ladies Dog, Bichon Maltese, Maltese Lion Dog, Maltese Terrier

Origins: Italy

Side view of white Maltese looking at camera

Drooling tendencies		Warm weather?
Grooming needs		Cold weather?
Shedding level		Suited to apartment living?
Barking tendencies	High	Can stay alone?*
Energy Level (high, low, medium)*	Low	Family pet?*
Compatibility with other pets

* We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches. Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behaviour. Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.

Every pet is different, even within a breed; this snapshot of this breed specifics should be taken as an indication.

For a happy healthy and well-behaved pet, we recommend educating and socializing your pet as well as covering their basic welfare needs (and their social and behavioral needs).

Pets should never be left unsupervised with a child.

Contact your breeder or veterinarian for further advice.All domestic pets are sociable and prefer company.

However, they can be taught to cope with solitude from an early age. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or trainer to help you do this.

Illustration of white Maltese from the side

21 cm - 23 cm Height

3 kg - 4 kg Weight

18 cm - 23 cm Height

3 kg - 4 kg Weight

Baby age	Birth to 2 months
Puppy age	2 to 10 months
Adult age	10 months to 8 years
Mature age	8 to 12 years
Senior age	12 to 22 years

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Get to know the Maltese

All you need to know about the breed

Covered from head to foot with silky, white tresses, and with an upright deportment, the Maltese has an almost regal-like bearing. This is actually quite appropriate as these tiny toy-breed dogs are considered to be one of the aristocrats of the canine world.In fact, they appear to have been positively revered in the ancient cultures of Egypt, Greece and Rome..

During Roman times, the Maltesewas also something of a status or fashion symbol, with upper-class ladies carrying them around almost like an accessory. Later, their popularity rose again in the 1800’s when they became a favourite with royalty –including several queens of England. This meant they were also a fixture at early dog shows.

Today, the Maltese is a popular choice among A-list stars. Among those reputed to have owned a Maltese are Marilyn Monroe, Jane Fonda and Elizabeth Taylor, as well as current celebrities like Ellen DeGeneres and Jessica Simpson.

Despite their small size, these plucky little animals are quite confident and not easily fazed. In fact, the Maltese can even be a bit stubborn at times, so will benefit from some early training classes. Very smart, the Maltese learns quickly. They also make good watchdogs –at least in terms of barking if not their physical demeanour. What they lack in size, they make up for in attitude.

With a fairly robust constitution, the Maltese is a healthy breed of dog with a good lifespan. Indeed, many Malteses live well into their teens –and, occasionally, even beyond.

Because of their small stature, the Malteseis not recommended for households with toddlers or small children –especially as they can also be a bit yappy at times. Also, they don’t like to be left alone for long periods of time, so are best suited to people who are at home during the day, or take them to work with you.

But, other than that, they make an excellent choice of pet dog all-round. In fact, the Maltese frequently appears in lists of the world’s most popular dog breeds.

Two Maltese puppies stilling on a stone wall

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2 facts about Malteses

1. Walk like an Egyptian

Especially admired in Ancient Egypt, it was believed that the ancestors of today’s Maltese had the ability to cure people of disease. As such, representations of Maltese-like dogs have been found on artifacts from the period. There is even a model that survives.

2. Facing up to things

A question often asked about the Maltese is how to clean the fur around their eyes. This can sometimes become stained if, for example, they have a blocked tear duct –in which case they should also see the vet. Afterwards, their fur can be cleaned using a wet cloth with warm water (and a dot of dog shampoo if you feel confident) while being careful to avoid the eyes themselves.

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History of the breed

One of oldest dog breeds in the world, the Maltese has been with us for many centuries. Despite the name, however, it is believed that the ancestors of these little dogs came from Italy. The name is thought to derive from a word in one of the Semitic languages meaning ‘haven’ or ‘harbour’, as they were used to catch the rats and mice around the ports.

In Roman times, the Maltese breed went on to become popular with noblewomen. These grand ladies would carry them about their bosom or even in their pockets. Later, the breed was refined by the Chinese who crossed the dogs with their own native animals and then exported them.

By the 16th century, the popularity of the Maltese was rising in Europe where they were favoured by royalty. Both Queen Elizabeth I and Queen Victoria owned a Maltese, as did Mary, Queen of Scots.

In the 1800’s, the breed’s upward trajectory continued. Recognised by the American Kennel Club in 1888, they soon became a regular fixture at dog shows on both sides of the pond. This is still the case today, and you will spot many a Maltese strutting their stuff as they vie for ‘Best in Show’.

Maltese sitting looking at camera in black and white

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From head to tail

Physical characteristics of Malteses

1. Hair

Head and body covered with silky curtains of snow-white hair.

2. Head

Face distinguished by triangular ears, dark eyes and button nose.

3. Body

Sprightly in motion, small but elongated bodies have a straight topline.

4. Tail

Tail forms a single large curve ending between the hips.

5. Fur

Without the undercoat typical of many breeds, Maltese don’t shed much.

Two adult Maltese dogs with two puppies sitting on grass

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Things to look out for

From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Maltese

Don’t forget your toothbrush

Like many of the toy breeds of dogs, the Maltese can be prone to problems with their teeth and gums – such as gingivitis (gum inflammation) or periodontal disease (inflammation of some or all of the tooth’s support structures). As well as being painful for your Maltese, it can also result in them having difficulty eating and tooth loss, and potentially more serious complications such as kidney, liver and heart disease. Caused by a build-up of plaque and tartar on the teeth, it is best prevented with daily brushing. Also, routine cleanings/examinations with your vet are recommended.

Healthy diet, healthier dog

Puppy

Adult

Senior

When choosing food for a Maltese, there are many factors to consider: their age, lifestyle, activity level, physiological condition, and health, including potential sickness or sensitivities. Food provides energy to cover a dog’s vital functions, and a complete nutritional formula should contain an adjusted balance of nutrients to avoid any deficiency or excess in their diet, both of which could have adverse effects on the dog. Clean and fresh water should be available at all times to support your Maltese’s urinary health. In hot weather and especially when out exercising, bring water along for your dog’s frequent water breaks. The following recommendations are for healthy animals. If your dog has health problems, please consult your veterinarian who will prescribe an exclusive veterinary diet.
A Maltese puppy’s requirements, in terms of energy, protein, minerals, and vitamins, are much greater than those of an adult dog. They need energy and nutrients to maintain their body, but also to grow and build it. Until they are 8 months old, a Maltese puppies’ immune system develops gradually. A complex of antioxidants - including vitamin E - can help support their natural defences during this time of big changes, discoveries, and new encounters. Their digestive functions are different from an adult Maltese’s, too: their digestive system is not mature yet so it’s important to provide highly digestible proteins that will be effectively used. A balanced intake of fibres, such as psyllium, can help facilitate intestinal transit and contribute to good stool quality.
Similarly, a puppy’s teeth – starting with the milk teeth, or first teeth, then the permanent teeth – are an important factor that needs to be taken into account when choosing the size, shape, and texture of kibble. This growth phase also means high energy needs, so the food must have a high energy content (expressed in Kcal/100g of food), while concentrations of all other nutrients will also be higher than normal in a specially formulated growth food. It is recommended to split the daily allowance into three meals a day until they are six months old, then to switch to two meals per day.
Throughout their life, it is important to avoid feeding your Maltese human foods or fatty snacks. Instead, reward them with kibble taken from their meal allowance, and strictly follow the feeding guidelines written on the package in order to prevent excessive weight gain.

The main nutritional goals for adult Maltese are:
Maintaining an ideal body weight by using highly digestible ingredients and keeping the fat content at a sensible level
Preserving the health and beauty of the skin and coat with the enriched addition of essential fatty acids (omega 3 - EPA-DHA - and omega 6), borage oil, and biotin
Supporting oral hygiene with a formula containing calcium chelators that help reduce tartar formation
Satisfying their fussy appetite. The size of the kibble should be very small and adapted to the miniature jaw of Maltese in order to avoid problems with picking up food. Combined with great aromas and flavours, this will stimulate their finicky appetite. Maintaining a healthy digestive system. A diet formulated with a balanced intake of fibres will help facilitate intestinal transit, and with highly digestible proteins contributes to good stool quality. Maintaining an ideal body weight by using highly digestible ingredients and keeping the fat content at a sensible level. For Maltese living mainly indoors, because of reduced activity, it is important to strictly follow the feeding guidelines written on the package in order to prevent excessive weight gain, and to do so for sterilised Maltese, as neutering is a factor in overweight dogs. Very small breed dogs are prone to urinary stones; a diet that supports a healthy urinary system is recommended.

After 8 years old, Maltese start facing the first signs of ageing. A diet enriched with antioxidants helps maintain vitality, and key nutrients, such as taurine, help support good cardiac function. Ageing is also accompanied by the modification of digestive capacities and particular nutritional requirements, so food for ageing Maltese should have the following characteristics:
Higher vitamin C and E content. These nutrients have antioxidant properties, helping to protect the body’s cells against the harmful effects of the oxidative stress linked to ageing.
High-quality protein. Contrary to a widely held misconception, lowering the protein content in food brings little benefit in limiting kidney failure. In addition, older dogs are less efficient at using dietary protein than younger dogs. Reducing the phosphorus content is a good way of slowing down the gradual deterioration of kidney function.
A higher proportion of the trace elements iron, copper, zinc, and manganese to help maintain good condition of the skin and coat.
A higher quantity of polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids) to maintain the quality of the coat. Dogs can normally produce these fatty acids, but ageing can affect this physiological process.
As they age, dogs increasingly suffer from teeth problems. To ensure they continue to eat in sufficient quantities, the size, shape and texture of their kibble needs to be tailored to their jaw.

Maltese puppy panting with front paws on log

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Caring for your Maltese

Grooming, training and exercise tips

While Maltese dogs are certainly full of energy, they actually require less exercise than some other breeds because of their tiny stature. In order for them to stay healthy and happy, they should have a short daily walk or two each day, but that should suffice. This should also be supported, however, by regular play and games, as the Maltese is an intelligent breed and needs the mental stimulation. This will also help to distract them from any potential excess barking – something to which the Maltese breed can be prone.

In terms of grooming, the slinky tresses of the Maltese are their crowning glory, but their coat does require a bit of care. Gentle daily brushing is recommended, to avoid a build-up of tangles, and the hair on top of their head should be tied in a topknot or cut short to avoid irritating their eyes. A monthly bath is also a good idea. On the plus side, the Maltese doesn’t shed a great deal. Nails should be trimmed regularly, as they can be fast-growing, and ears checked too. Because the Maltese can be prone to dental disease, teeth should be brushed daily.

Despite a reputation for having something of a stubborn streak in their otherwise lovely temperament, the Maltese is a highly intelligent little dog. They are, therefore, a quick learner. Consistency, patience and positive reinforcement are key and they will soon start to progress in their training. Early socialisation can also help this tiny breed to feel comfortable in new situations and among other dogs and humans. Once they’ve got the hang of the basic commands, the Maltese can go on to do well in competitive sports, such as obedience or agility, and you will often see them scooping the coveted title of ‘Best in Show’.

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All about Malteses

Maltese Adult

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X-Small Puppy

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How your dog's nutrition needs change with age

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Things to consider before getting a dog

Sources

1 - Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/

2 - Royal Canin Dog Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020

3 - Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/

4 - Royal Canin BHN Product Book

5 - American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/