Maltese dogs may be tiny, but their big and bubbly personalities have made them a firm favourite among dog parents. With white coats, playful energy, and limitless affection — these little charmers are hard to resist.
Thinking about welcoming a pup into your life? Or already sharing a home with a Maltese? This guide has everything you need to know about how to keep them happy, healthy, and full of life.
From choosing the right diet to keeping their minds sharp, our holistic approach covers all the ins and outs of what it takes to care for a Maltese.
Top breed takeaways
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Breed history
With their dazzling coats, cute button nose, and shiny black eyes, you’d be forgiven for thinking the Maltese was a designer breed. But this ancient toy breed has been stealing hearts for over 2,000 years.
Originating from the Mediterranean, particularly the island of Malta, this breed was a treasured companion in ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian societies. These little pups later became favourites among European nobility and were often depicted in art and literature as symbols of grace and loyalty.
Fast forward to today and they’re still adored for their companionship and endearing nature.
Key characteristics
Maltese dogs are loving and endlessly loyal, forming strong bonds with their humans and thriving on companionship. Their entertaining nature and adaptability make them well-suited to apartment living, and despite their small size, they have a bold personality.
Health considerations
Maltese are generally a healthy breed, but they can be prone to joint conditions, dental issues like gum disease, and obesity.
A gently cooked, high-protein diet containing healthy fats and fresh vegetables with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can support their joints, heart, and overall health.
Appearance and size
The Maltese is a toy breed with a compact body, expressive eyes, and a signature floor-length, silky white coat. Their refined elegance, combined with their dainty yet sturdy build, make them stand out wherever they go.
Maltese personality and temperament
Smart, spirited, and entirely devoted to their humans, Maltese dogs make fantastic companions for single parents, couples, and families alike.
They’re energetic and always ready for a new adventure, but they’re just as happy to have a walk or a game of fetch, followed by a cuddle on the couch.
Their clever minds make them highly trainable, and they love learning new tricks. But they can also have a cheeky, headstrong side, so consistent obedience is important.
Their bold and confident nature makes them great little watchdogs. But given their size and affectionate personality, they’re more about announcing visitors than guarding the home.
Due to their social nature, Maltese dogs don’t like being left alone for too long. They can develop separation anxiety, so they do best in households where they get plenty of companionship.
Maltese breed size guide
A full-grown Maltese weighs between 1.8-2.7 kg and can grow between 18-23 cm tall, depending on their gender and genetics. They tend to stop growing in height by 6-9 months of age but can take a little longer to reach full maturity.
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How long do Maltese dogs live?
Maltese typically live between 12-15 years.
As dog parents, we want our pups to live a happy and healthy life for as long as possible – and there’s so much we can easily do to help them thrive, not just survive.
A nourishing real food diet (like Lyka), regular exercise, mental stimulation, training, grooming, and proactive vet care all work together to help your pup feel their very best.
“All toy breeds can be at an increased risk of developing periodontal disease (gum disease) because of their small and crowded mouths, and the Maltese is no exception. Establishing an oral hygiene routine is important for this breed. In addition to regular brushing, look for diets containing Kelp which can help to reduce plaque and tartar build-up.”
– Dr Darcy Marshall, Lyka Veterinarian, BSc, DVM
Learn more about Dr Darcy Marshall and his veterinary experience.
What does a Maltese eat?
These pocket-sized pups need nutritious food to fuel their alert minds and energetic bodies.
The best Maltese diet is made with real food ingredients, like high-quality protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables.
A nourishing diet fuels your Maltese’s boundless energy and keeps their coat gleaming. With high-quality protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, real food supports everything from digestion to skin health.
Lyka’s gently cooked meals retain the taste, texture, and nutrients of every carefully selected ingredient. They’re easy to digest, keep your pup hydrated, and are irresistibly delicious — even for fussy eaters.
Maintaining the right weight and body shape is crucial for a Maltese dog’s health and wellbeing. Extra weight can put stress on their joints and impact their quality of life.
That’s why Lyka meals are custom portioned to meet your dog’s specific needs, helping you keep them at their healthiest and happiest.
Do Maltese puppies need special food?
Contrary to popular belief, puppies don’t need special puppy food if they’re getting the right portion of nutrient-dense real food.
Maltese puppies need a diet containing high-quality protein for tissue growth, essential vitamins and minerals for bone development and brain function, and low GI carbohydrates for slow-release energy, like Lyka.
Read more: What should puppies eat? Expert nutrition tips for optimal development →
Read more: Puppy vs adult food: what our experts want you to know →
Maltese health issues
Maltese pups from reputable breeders are generally known to be healthy, but like all dogs, they can develop health issues or inherit conditions from their parents.
Before planning a litter, respectable breeders will consider the health, temperament, and genetic history of their breeding pairs to select good characteristics. Always check the health of the parents before choosing your new pup.
1. Joint issues
Maltese dogs can be prone to inherited developmental conditions like patellar luxation (a dislocated kneecap). Rapid growth as a puppy (caused by too much dietary calcium or protein) can also be a factor. Some dogs can develop arthritis as a secondary condition.
Look for real, fresh food that supports joint health and contains bioavailable ingredients known for their musculoskeletal-boosting properties, like:
🐟 Sardines: a powerful source of Omega 3 fatty acids with anti-inflammatory properties to support strong and supple joints.
🌾 Quinoa: contains manganese for bone development.
🌱 Fennel Seeds: rich in antioxidant properties to reduce the damage to joints caused by oxidative stress.
Lyka meals contain sardines, fish oil and flaxseed oil that support common joint ailments like arthritis and osteochondritis.
2. Gum disease
Gum disease in dogs (periodontal disease) is a bacterial infection along the gumline that can cause swollen gums and loose teeth. In severe, untreated cases, the infection can enter the bloodstream leading to other health problems.
All dogs should have a dental care routine, including regular brushing, to keep their teeth and gums clean, strong, and healthy.
Your dog’s diet can help too.
Kelp (Ascophyllum nodosum) has been shown to reduce plaque and tartar build-up.
Dental treats, like Lyka’s Busy Beefies and Pig Twigs, are designed for repeated chewing which can also support your pup’s oral health too.
Read more: Gum disease in dogs: how to spot, treat, and prevent it (with pictures) →
3. Obesity
Small pups, like Maltese, require fewer calories than larger dogs — even a small excess can quickly lead to weight gain.
Maintain your pup's optimal weight with a portion-controlled, complete and balanced diet that keeps them nourished and in excellent shape. Pair this with regular walks and play to keep them active, along with regular veterinary check-ups.
Include real ingredients in their diet like quality proteins and low GI carbohydrates to maintain steady energy levels and support a healthy weight and body shape, like:
🍠 Purple sweet potato: a low-GI carbohydrate option that gradually releases energy to satisfy your pup.
🦘 Kangaroo and Chicken: low-fat, high-quality protein options for healthy weight management.
🥬 Kale: fresh, non-starchy produce with bioavailable nutrients and dietary fibre for healthy digestion and satiety.
Read more: Decoding dog weight: is your dog in perfect shape? →
Maltese coat, grooming, and hygiene tips
With their luxuriously long white locks, keeping your Maltese well-groomed isn’t just about maintaining their unique appearance — it’s essential for their health.
Coat types and shedding
The Maltese has a single coat of low-shedding hair, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.
Grooming
Maltese dogs with long hair should be brushed several times a week. Use a pin brush to remove debris and small tangles to prevent matting. If you want a low-maintenance coat, you can cut it short into a ‘puppy cut’: a short and shaggy hairdo that shows off their delicate features.
This breed only needs a bath every 4-6 weeks, depending on their coat length. Remember to use dog-friendly shampoo, as human products can irritate their skin.
Maltese hygiene tips
A dog's nails can grow surprisingly fast and if they're not trimmed regularly can become uncomfortable and affect how they walk.
Introduce your Maltese to nail trims from an early age so they’re used to the sensation and the tools. Don’t forget to reward them with a high-value treat at the end, so they develop a positive association with the process.
Brushing your dog's teeth a few times a week helps reduce tartar buildup and supports healthy gums.
Routine ear checks help to spot early signs of ear infections in dogs, wax buildup, or irritation. You can give them a gentle wipe with a clean, damp cloth, but be careful not to reach too far into their ear, as this can cause damage.
Inspect your dog’s paws frequently, checking for cuts, debris, or redness between their pads.
Maltese dogs can often experience tear staining, caused by a pigment in tears. All dogs excrete this pigment, but it’s often more noticeable in white dogs. A diet rich in high-quality protein, like Lyka, can help reduce this stubborn problem.
Read more: Prevent tear stains naturally: how your dog’s diet makes a difference →
Maltese exercise requirements
Maltese pups are bundles of energy, but they only require moderate exercise to stay fit and healthy.
Daily walks, indoor play sessions, and interactive toys help keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They love games like fetch and agility exercises that challenge their quick minds.
A high-protein, low-glycaemic index diet, like Lyka’s real food meals, provides steady, nutritious energy to complement their active lifestyle.
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Training a Maltese
With their quick minds and eagerness to please, Maltese dogs pick up new tricks in no time — especially with positive reinforcement.
A little patience (and a tasty reward!) goes a long way in turning their ‘stubborn streak’ into a charming quirk.
Training should continue throughout their life, with enrichment activities and routines to keep them stimulated.
For Maltese puppies, toilet training requires frequent breaks (expect one hour of bladder control per month of age), while crate training offers a safe space and helps with house-training. Controlled socialisation through puppy school or meet-ups is essential for building confidence and social skills.
Your pup’s receptivity to training can be improved with the right nutrition that helps support consistent moods, steady energy levels, and cognitive development.
Read more: Fuelling your dog’s focus: how nutrition impacts your dog’s training →
How to choose a reputable Maltese breeder
So, you’ve decided that a Maltese is your perfect pocket-sized companion? Exciting! The next step is finding a reputable breeder or considering adoption.
How do I find a reputable Maltese breeder?
Often each state has a recognised breed club that can provide a list of reputable breeders that will usually have a website, social media channels, and direct contact details.
RightPaw is a website dedicated to promoting responsible breeders and ethical programs. Not all breeders use this site, but it’s a helpful tool to support you on your puppy journey.
Speak to other dog parents — it’s a great way to gain invaluable insight into their first-hand experience and give you even more of a taste of what to expect from the breed.
How much is a Maltese puppy?
You can expect to pay around $3,000 to $6,500 for a Maltese puppy from an ethical breeder in Australia. But remember that the ongoing cost of parenting a dog is a significant commitment of money and time.
Veterinary bills can be expensive and unexpected, so it’s worth considering pet insurance too.
If you want to adopt a Maltese from a rescue shelter, we’re right behind you. Try to find out as much information about them as you can but recognise that a lot of their history will be unknown.
When you bring them home, show them love, patience, and consistency to help them settle into a new and secure life with you.
Read more: How much does a dog cost? The real price of dog ownership →
FAQs
Still have questions about the Maltese breed? Check out our FAQs for more information.
Are Maltese hypoallergenic?
Yes, Maltese are considered hypoallergenic due to their low-shedding coat.
When should I desex my Maltese?
Most dogs are desexed when they reach maturity. Your vet will consider your dog’s age, size, health, and behaviour to determine the right time for the procedure.
For how long is a Maltese pregnant?
The Maltese gestation period is around 63 days or nine weeks from conception.
What’s the difference between a Maltese and a Maltese Shih Tzu?
The Maltese and the Shih Tzu are two different toy breeds. The Maltese Shih Tzu is a hybrid, designed to combine the best features of both breeds.
Read more: Maltese Shih Tzu breed insights: care, personality & expert tips →
Do Maltese dogs get along with cats and other pets?
Maltese dogs can get along quite happily with cats and other pets, thanks to their gentle natures and low prey drive. Early, supervised socialisation is always recommended.
New to Lyka? Let’s rethink dog food together.
Parenting a Maltese comes with many decisions, like choosing the best diet for your new best friend.
Designed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists, and made with real, human-grade ingredients, our meals are custom-portioned to match your dog’s needs.
Lyka nourishes hundreds of Maltese dogs across Australia – from energetic pups to seniors in their golden years – they’re all thriving on Lyka.
