Maltese Breed Information
The Maltese is a small companion dog with a long, silky white coat and a personality that’s as bright as its appearance. Known for its affectionate nature and expressive eyes, the Maltese is one of the oldest and most beloved toy breeds in the world. While their size is petite, their presence fills the room—they’re charming, lively, and completely devoted to their people.
Everything about this breed is built around companionship. The Maltese was bred to be close, not just in body but in spirit. Whether they’re curled up in your lap or following you from room to room, they stay tuned in and involved, always looking for a way to connect. Their gentle energy, cheerful disposition, and sensitivity to mood make them one of the best small companion dogs for people who want a loyal and emotionally aware pet.
Despite their refined look, the Maltese dog breed is more than a pretty face. They’re playful, smart, and adaptable—equally happy with a walk around the block or a quiet afternoon on the couch. Their coat may need regular care, but they shed very little, which makes them one of the more popular choices for those looking for a hypoallergenic dog.
BREED TYPE / MIX
Purebred
ENERGY
Moderate
SHEDDING
Minimum
TRAINING
Determined
TEMPERAMENT
Affectionate, Gentle, Intelligent, Loving, Playful
ADULT WEIGHT
4-7 lbs
ADULT HEIGHT
9-10 in
LIFE SPAN
12-15 yrs
Characteristics
- Bold but gentle – Despite their tiny frame, Maltese dogs often carry themselves with surprising confidence. They’re brave in unfamiliar situations, but never aggressive or hard to manage.
- Emotionally responsive – This breed is sensitive to changes in mood and tone. If you’re happy, they’re upbeat. If you’re quiet, they tend to stay close and match your energy.
- Classic lapdog – The Maltese loves a warm lap and doesn’t mind being pampered. They were bred for companionship and it still shows in how naturally they settle into people’s arms.
- Small but sturdy – Most Maltese weigh between 4 and 7 pounds, yet they’re not fragile. They’re nimble, well-balanced, and surprisingly resilient for their size.
- Hypoallergenic coat – Their long, flowing white hair doesn’t shed like most breeds. While grooming is part of the routine, many allergy-sensitive homes find them easier to live with.
- Quiet but alert – Maltese dogs are not yappy by nature, but they will let you know when something’s off. They’re tuned in, but not overreactive.
- Lively and light on their feet – There’s a spring to their step that’s hard to miss. They enjoy trotting through the house, playing with toys, or simply circling your feet with cheerful energy.
- Highly adaptable – Whether you live in a city apartment or a quieter space in the suburbs, the Maltese adjusts. They’re more interested in who they’re with than where they are.
- Devoted and people-first – The Maltese temperament centers around one thing: connection. They don’t just want to be near you—they want to be part of what you’re doing, every step of the way.
Appearance
The Maltese is instantly recognizable for its elegant, flowing coat and compact size. This is a breed that stands out not with size or flash, but with refinement and quiet presence. Delicate in appearance, yet confident in posture, the Maltese has a graceful silhouette that’s become iconic in the world of toy dog breeds.
Weighing in between 4 and 7 pounds, most Maltese dogs measure 7 to 9 inches tall at the shoulder. Their bodies are well-proportioned, with a level back and a slightly rounded skull. The neck arches gently, giving them a proud, upright stance, and their movement is smooth and light—almost floating at times.
The most defining feature, of course, is the Maltese coat. Long, straight, and silky, it drapes evenly over the body, often reaching the floor when kept at full length. The hair is pure white, although some may show slight lemon or tan shading on the ears, especially as puppies. The texture is soft and airy, never wooly or harsh, and it gives the breed a timeless, almost ornamental appearance.
Underneath all that glamour is a small but solid frame. The Maltese isn’t delicate in the way some might expect. While they’re light in weight, they carry themselves with intention, with balanced structure and good muscle tone beneath the coat.
Their eyes are round and dark, full of expression, and framed by black rims that give them a gentle, alert gaze. Ears hang close to the head and are heavily feathered. The tail is set high and curls over the back, often blending into the coat for a soft, cloudlike shape.
Whether clipped short for easy care or kept long for a show-stopping look, the Maltese carries a natural beauty that doesn’t fade. Their appearance reflects their personality—soft, bright, and full of quiet confidence.
Temperament
The Maltese temperament is one of affection, alertness, and devotion. This is a breed that thrives on human connection—soft enough to be a lapdog, yet confident enough to hold their own in a room full of people. They’re often described as lively but never overbearing, charming without being clingy, and loyal without being stubborn.
At their core, Maltese dogs are people-first. They build strong bonds with their families and often follow their favorite person from room to room, just happy to be included in the day. They don’t need constant entertainment, but they do need to feel close and involved. That emotional sensitivity is part of what makes them such intuitive, easy-to-love companions.
While their size is small, their presence isn’t. The Maltese has a natural confidence that often surprises people unfamiliar with the breed. They’ll greet guests with curiosity, investigate changes in their environment, and step forward rather than back when something catches their attention. It’s this balance—between gentleness and quiet boldness—that defines the small dog personality so many people fall in love with.
Maltese dogs are also known for being playful. They enjoy toys, short games, and anything that involves their people. They don’t require a ton of space to stay happy—what they value most is interaction. Even a few minutes of play here and there, or the simple act of being held and talked to, can go a long way in making them feel secure.
They’re also quite adaptable. Whether they live in a calm, quiet home or a busier household with kids and other pets, they tend to find their place. With early socialization, they learn to greet new people and situations with openness. And while they might bark when something feels unfamiliar, they’re usually quick to settle once they understand what’s going on.
Care
Grooming
The Maltese is well-known for its beautiful, floor-length coat—but that beauty comes with commitment. While they’re often praised as a hypoallergenic dog due to their low-shedding hair, the reality is that Maltese grooming is one of the more involved routines in the small dog world. With the right rhythm, though, it becomes a simple part of life with this elegant breed.
Their long, silky coat doesn’t shed much, but it does tangle easily. For dogs kept in full coat, daily brushing is the standard. A pin brush or metal comb helps keep the hair smooth and free of mats, especially around the ears, legs, and tail. Regular brushing also helps distribute natural oils, keeping the coat healthy and soft.
Many owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to reduce daily upkeep. This trim gives the Maltese a neat, teddy bear look and makes brushing far easier—just a few times a week is usually enough. Regardless of length, routine matters more than style. Once the coat is maintained regularly, grooming becomes less of a chore and more of a bonding moment.
Bathing is usually needed every three to four weeks, using a gentle shampoo that won’t dry out their sensitive skin. Because their coat is white, tear staining is common around the eyes. Regular wiping with a damp cloth or vet-approved solution helps keep the face looking clean and bright.
Professional grooming every four to eight weeks helps keep the coat shaped and manageable, especially for those who choose to keep it long. A groomer can also handle things like nail trimming, ear cleaning, and sanitary trims—essential parts of the Maltese coat maintenance routine.
Dental care is another important piece. Like many toy breeds, the Maltese is prone to tartar buildup. Brushing their teeth several times a week and providing dental treats or rinses supports long-term oral health.
Exercise Needs
The Maltese may look like a pampered lapdog—and they do love a soft spot to curl up—but don’t let their refined look fool you. These dogs enjoy movement, interaction, and staying in rhythm with their people. While they don’t require hours of exercise, they do need regular activity to stay healthy and mentally sharp.
Most Maltese dogs thrive on 20 to 30 minutes of activity each day, broken up into smaller bursts. A short walk in the morning, a little play indoors, and another outing in the evening is often enough. Their small size means they can get much of what they need right at home—even a quick game of fetch down a hallway counts.
When it comes to toy breed activity, it's less about intensity and more about consistency. The Maltese doesn’t need to burn off excess energy, but they do need a way to stay engaged. A few minutes here and there throughout the day keeps them balanced and helps prevent boredom-based behaviors like barking or chewing.
They enjoy simple games—tug toys, gentle chases, or even learning a new trick. And while they’re not built for jogging or rough play, they’ll happily trot alongside you at a relaxed pace. Their coordination and balance also make them great candidates for indoor agility or puzzle-based games that challenge the mind.
Part of the daily routine for a Maltese should also include time outdoors. Even a short stroll on a leash offers fresh smells, new sights, and a chance to break up the day. They’re naturally curious and love being in on what’s happening around them.
That said, these dogs are adaptable. On slower days, they’re content to rest and recharge—as long as they’re still close to you. As long as you offer a bit of activity, interaction, and a change of pace here and there, the Maltese remains a calm, happy companion that fits easily into just about any lifestyle.
Health
The Maltese is generally a healthy breed with a reputation for longevity. Many live well into their teens, and with attentive care, it’s not unusual to see a Maltese celebrating their 14th or even 15th birthday. As a long-living small dog, their wellbeing depends on a stable routine, good nutrition, and regular vet care.
Like all breeds, they do have some predispositions to be aware of. One of the more common Maltese health issues is dental disease. Their small mouths can lead to crowding, which makes plaque buildup more likely. Without regular brushing, this can progress into gum disease or tooth loss. Consistent dental care—ideally brushing a few times a week—makes a significant difference.
They’re also prone to tear staining, especially around the eyes. While it’s usually cosmetic, it can indicate underlying allergies or sensitivities. Wiping the eyes daily and adjusting diet or water source can help minimize this issue. In some cases, a vet may recommend additional treatment.
Some Maltese may also have sensitive digestion or develop food allergies. A well-balanced diet, chosen with your vet’s guidance, helps reduce the chance of flare-ups. Choosing high-quality ingredients and feeding on a regular schedule also supports digestive health over time.
Routine preventive care for Maltese includes yearly checkups, vaccinations, dental cleanings, and occasional bloodwork as they age. Small changes in weight, behavior, or energy levels often signal when something needs attention—so staying tuned in matters just as much as following a care plan.
Lifespan
The Maltese is one of the longest-living breeds in the toy group, with a typical lifespan of 12 to 15 years—and many living even longer. Their compact size, steady energy level, and overall health profile contribute to that longevity, making them a favorite among those looking for a long-living toy breed.
What sets them apart isn’t just how long they live, but how well they age. Many Maltese dogs stay playful and connected well into their senior years. They may slow down a little, but their personalities remain steady. They continue to enjoy their routines, respond to affection, and stay close to their families with the same loyalty and warmth they showed as puppies.
As with any dog, the quality of those later years depends on daily care and early attention to small changes. Routine vet visits, a diet tailored to their age and needs, and manageable activity all support graceful aging. Adjustments like softer bedding, shorter walks, and easier access to favorite resting spots can make a big difference in their comfort.
Senior care for Maltese often includes watching for signs of dental discomfort, joint stiffness, or changes in appetite and energy. Their emotional bond with their owners stays strong, so they often respond well to slower routines, extra cuddles, and the comfort of familiar voices.
More than anything, the Maltese seems to thrive when they feel included. They don’t ask for much—just consistency, attention, and space to stay close.
Training
The Maltese is a smart and eager little dog, and that combination makes training both rewarding and relatively straightforward—when done with patience and consistency. While their appearance may be dainty, their mind is sharp. They enjoy learning, especially when it involves their favorite person and a bit of fun.
As a trainable toy breed, the Maltese responds best to positive reinforcement. Treats, cheerful praise, and short, upbeat sessions tend to produce the best results. Harsh corrections can hurt their confidence or cause them to withdraw, so a gentle, encouraging tone works far better than strict discipline.
Many Maltese learn basic commands quickly—sit, stay, come, and leash walking can fall into place easily with just a little repetition. They also enjoy games that involve learning new tricks or solving simple puzzles. These activities help channel their energy and build a stronger bond between dog and owner.
That said, consistency is key. The Maltese is clever enough to test boundaries if routines are unclear. Regular practice, predictable structure, and clear expectations help them thrive. They don’t require intense drills—just steady guidance and regular reminders of what’s expected.
House training may take a bit longer, as it can with many small breeds. Their size means they have smaller bladders, and they may struggle more with holding it early on. Crate training, scheduled potty breaks, and lots of positive feedback help build good habits.
Early socialization is also important. While Maltese dogs are naturally friendly, they can become timid or reactive without early exposure to different people, places, and situations. Calm introductions and ongoing practice help them stay confident and open as they grow.
History
The Maltese is one of the oldest known companion dog breeds, with a history that stretches back thousands of years. Tracing the origin of the Maltese takes us to the central Mediterranean, where it’s believed the breed first emerged on the island of Malta—hence the name. There, it was prized not for hunting or guarding, but simply for being what it still is today: a devoted and elegant companion.
Mentions of Maltese dog history date as far back as ancient Greece and Rome. Greek pottery and Roman texts depict small, white lapdogs strikingly similar to the modern Maltese. Even Aristotle is said to have referenced a “Melitaei Catelli,” a term believed to describe a dog from Malta. These dogs were often associated with wealth, grace, and status—frequently kept by aristocrats and women of high society.
By the time of the Roman Empire, the Maltese had already earned a reputation as a refined house dog, often adorned in fine fabrics and pampered in luxurious homes. They were admired for their beauty and soft temperament, and some were even immortalized in literature and art. In fact, Roman matrons were known to carry their Maltese in their sleeves or folds of their robes, a tradition that gave rise to the phrase “sleeve dog.”
Over centuries, the breed traveled across Europe and continued to evolve in appearance. By the Middle Ages and Renaissance, the Maltese was especially popular among European nobility, including royalty. Queens Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots, were said to have kept Maltese dogs, and they appeared frequently in royal portraits as a symbol of grace and status.
Despite its long history, the Maltese was never developed for work. It was always bred to be close to people. And that focus on companionship has stayed consistent through generations. During the Victorian era, the breed continued to gain popularity in England, and it eventually made its way to the United States.
Today, the Maltese is recognized by major kennel clubs worldwide and remains one of the most cherished ancient toy breeds. Though their appearance has been refined over time, their role remains exactly as it was thousands of years ago: a soft, bright-eyed companion bred for warmth, loyalty, and elegance.