Dog Breed

Maltese

gentle • playful • charming • affectionate

OriginMalta
Lifespan12-15 years
Weight1.5-3 kg
Energy Levelmoderate

Quick Stats

Sizesmall
Weight1.5-3 kg
Lifespan12-15 years
Energy Levelmoderate
Groominghigh
Trainabilitymoderate
OriginMalta
Temperament
gentleplayfulcharmingaffectionate

Overview

The Maltese is an ancient toy breed known for its flowing white coat and sweet, gentle nature. These elegant companion dogs have been prized by royalty and nobility for thousands of years and remain beloved for their devoted, affectionate personalities.

Compatibility

Children
Fair
Other Dogs
Good
Cats
Good
Apartment Living
Excellent

Care Guide

Maltese need daily grooming for their long, white coat. They are companion dogs that crave human attention and should not be left alone for long. Their small size requires gentle handling.

Exercise Needs

Short daily walks and indoor play sessions. Their small size means moderate activity meets their needs.

Grooming

Daily brushing to prevent matting of their long, white coat. Many owners opt for a shorter clip. Regular bathing to keep coat white.

Health Concerns

patellar luxation
dental disease
portosystemic shunt
hypoglycaemia

Fun Facts

🐶Maltese dogs have been depicted in art for over 3,000 years.
🐶Ancient Greeks built tombs for their Maltese dogs.
🐶Their white coat is actually hair, not fur, which grows continuously like human hair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Maltese hypoallergenic?
They are one of the most allergy-friendly breeds due to their hair-like coat that sheds very little.
Are Maltese good with children?
Better with older children. Their tiny size makes them fragile around young, rough children.
Do Maltese bark a lot?
They can be vocal. Training helps manage barking tendencies.
How often do Maltese need grooming?
Daily brushing for long coats. Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks.

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