Maltese
A small companion breed famous for its silky white coat and affectionate personality.
Every Maltese profile blends practical care notes, breed traits, and everyday living guidance.
Breed Levels
How well this breed aligns with lifestyle factors.
Characteristics
Key traits that define this breed.
Appearance
Physical traits and distinctive features of this breed.
Individual pets may vary in appearance, temperament and needs. Early training, proper care and socialization help bring out the best in every companion.
The Maltese: An Ancient Toy of the Mediterranean
The Maltese is a tiny, elegant companion dog famous for its long, silky white coat and gentle, affectionate nature. A lapdog of the ancient world, it has charmed nobility for thousands of years and remains one of the most beloved of all toy breeds. The Maltese weighs under about 3.2 kg, stands roughly 18 to 23 cm tall and enjoys a long lifespan of around 12 to 15 years.
A Lapdog of Antiquity
The Maltese is genuinely ancient: it was already a prized breed by the 5th century, becoming a status symbol and fashion statement for Roman noblewomen. Its history likely reaches back to the Phoenicians, who are thought to have brought the little dog to the island of Malta. Bred purely for companionship throughout its long history, the Maltese was recognised by the American Kennel Club in 1888.
Temperament
The Maltese is gentle, playful, affectionate and charming. Lively and fearless despite its size, it is friendly and open with people of all ages and forms intensely close bonds with its family, preferring to be by its owner's side at all times. That devotion has a flip side: the Maltese can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone too long, so it does best where it has plenty of company.
Exercise
This is a low-demand breed in terms of activity. Short daily walks and indoor play are enough to keep a Maltese happy and healthy, which makes it an ideal apartment companion. Gentle handling is important given its delicate, lightweight frame.
Grooming
The long, straight, silky white coat sheds minimally but needs daily care to look and feel its best. Brush or comb every day to prevent mats and tangles, and bathe regularly to keep the bright coat and skin clean and healthy. Many owners opt for a shorter puppy trim for easier maintenance, and tear-stain care around the eyes helps keep the white face pristine.
Health Considerations
Generally a healthy breed with few serious concerns, the Maltese can be prone to luxating patellas (slipping kneecaps), dental disease common to small breeds, and tear staining. Regular dental care and veterinary checkups help keep it thriving into old age.
Who It Suits
The Maltese suits owners, including seniors and apartment dwellers, who want a small, devoted, affectionate companion and can offer the company it craves and the daily grooming its coat requires. In return it gives gentle, joyful and unwavering companionship.
