History & Characteristics
The Maltese is one of the oldest and most celebrated of all toy breeds, with a lineage stretching back more than 2,000 years to the island of Malta in the Mediterranean Sea. Ancient Greek philosophers, including Aristotle, wrote admiringly of the breed. Roman noblewomen kept these small white dogs as cherished companions and symbols of status — some accounts describe aristocrats tucking their Maltese into their sleeves or carrying them inside the folds of their robes.
By the Renaissance period, the breed had spread throughout European courts, appearing in paintings by Rubens, Goya, and Titian. The Maltese was introduced to the American Kennel Club in 1888 and has since become one of the most recognized and beloved toy breeds in the United States, where it is classified in the Toy Group.
According to the AKC breed standard, the Maltese is a small, fine-boned dog weighing under 7 pounds (ideally 4–6 pounds), with a compact, square body. The hallmark of the breed is its straight, single-layer, silky white coat, which falls from the dog’s body all the way to the ground when kept at full length. Because Maltese have a single coat with little to no undercoat, they shed very little, making them a popular choice for owners sensitive to dog hair. The dark, round eyes and black nose and eye rims stand out dramatically against the white coat, giving the breed its signature expressive look. The tail arches gracefully over the back, completing an elegant overall silhouette.
Maltese kept as companion dogs are often trimmed short in a “puppy cut” or “teddy bear cut” to make daily grooming more manageable, while show dogs wear the full-length flowing coat in meticulous condition.
Temperament & Personality
The Maltese is a spirited, affectionate, and fearlessly confident dog that seems entirely unaware of its tiny size. Owners often describe the breed as having the heart of a much larger dog — cheerful, bold, and deeply devoted to the people it loves.
At home, the Maltese is a classic lapdog. It thrives on close human contact and is happiest when snuggled beside its owner or following at their heels from room to room. This strong attachment to people means the Maltese is not well-suited to long periods alone, and individuals left without company for extended stretches may develop separation anxiety, leading to excessive barking or destructive behavior. Early habituation to alone time — starting with very short absences in puppyhood — can significantly reduce this risk.
Despite the pampered reputation, the Maltese is a genuinely intelligent breed. It ranks well in obedience and trick-learning trials and responds enthusiastically to positive reinforcement training. Rewards-based sessions using treats and praise keep the Maltese engaged and willing. Training should be consistent and firm, however; the breed’s small size tempts many owners to overlook minor misbehaviors, which can snowball into stubbornness or bossiness over time. A Maltese that has not been taught proper boundaries may become demanding or resource-guarding — a condition sometimes called “small dog syndrome.”
The Maltese is generally friendly toward children who treat it gently, but its tiny frame makes it vulnerable to accidental injury in households with very young or boisterous children. Supervised interactions are essential. With other pets, most Maltese are sociable and tolerant once properly introduced.
Health & Lifespan
The Maltese is a notably long-lived breed, with an average lifespan of approximately 14.1 years and a documented range of 12 to 15 years. Like all toy breeds, the Maltese is prone to a small set of health concerns that owners should be aware of.
Epiphora and tear staining are among the most common issues in the breed. The reddish-brown staining beneath the eyes — caused by a pigment in tears called porphyrin — is a cosmetic concern that can also signal blocked nasolacrimal ducts, allergies, or eyelash abnormalities. Daily wiping of the eye area with a damp cloth or specialized eye wipe helps prevent staining and secondary skin irritation. In persistent cases, a veterinary examination is warranted to rule out structural causes.
Patellar luxation, or kneecap slippage, is common across small breeds and appears at an elevated rate in Maltese. Mild cases (Grade 1–2) are often managed through weight control and reduced high-impact jumping; more severe cases may require surgical correction. Using non-slip floor surfaces and providing ramps or steps to furniture can help prevent the repetitive joint stress that worsens this condition over time.
Hypoglycemia is a particular concern for Maltese puppies and seniors because of their minimal fat reserves. Signs include weakness, stumbling, trembling, or unresponsiveness. Feeding small, frequent meals and avoiding long gaps between meals is the cornerstone of prevention. Owners should keep a glucose supplement on hand for emergencies.
Additional health points to discuss with your veterinarian include dental disease (Maltese have a higher than average risk of periodontal problems given the crowding of teeth in a small jaw), collapsed trachea, and heart valve disease in older individuals. Annual wellness exams, routine dental cleanings, and maintaining a healthy weight are the best defenses against these conditions and contribute to a long, comfortable life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the average lifespan of a Maltese?
The Maltese has an average lifespan of 12–15 years, with a median around 14.1 years — one of the longer lifespans among dog breeds. With daily dental care, careful management of hypoglycemia risk in puppies and small adults, and regular veterinary check-ups, many Maltese thrive well into their mid-teens.
Q: Is a Maltese good for first-time owners?
The Maltese is an excellent choice for first-time owners seeking a gentle, affectionate companion suited to apartment or indoor living. The breed is highly responsive to positive training, adapts well to different routines, and requires relatively low exercise — though owners must commit to daily coat brushing, regular grooming appointments, and consistent dental care.
Q: How much does it cost to own a Maltese per month?
Owning a Maltese typically costs $65–115 per month. Budget roughly $25–40 for food, $25–45 for pet insurance, and $15–30 for supplies and dental care. Professional grooming every 4–6 weeks is an important recurring cost for maintaining the Maltese’s flowing white coat.
