Small breed
Maltese Puppies
Small, affectionate companions for every family
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- Adult weight 4–7 lbs
- Height 8–10 in
- Lifespan 12–15 years
- Exercise 30 min a day
About the Maltese
The Maltese is a charming small breed known for its stunning white coat and affectionate nature. Originating from the Mediterranean region, these little companions have charmed their way into the hearts of families for centuries, making them perfect pets for both young children and seasoned dog lovers. Their gentle temperament allows them to thrive in family settings, as they enjoy being part of all the daily activities, bringing joy and warmth to every household.
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When it comes to energy levels, the Maltese is on the lower side, making them well-suited for apartment living and less active families. Despite their small size, they require regular exercise and are satisfied with short daily walks and playtime indoors. Their grooming needs are a bit more demanding; professional grooming is necessary to keep their beautiful coat in top shape and minimize shedding, which can be significant compared to other small breeds.
Trainability is another outstanding characteristic of the Maltese; they respond well to consistent, positive reinforcement techniques, and they often enjoy learning new tricks, which can be a delightful bonding experience. While they do have a tendency to bark, understanding the risks and providing them with proper training can help manage this natural instinct. Overall, if you’re searching for a loving, playful companion that enjoys cuddles and thrives in a loving home environment, consider welcoming a Maltese into your life. Looking for a Maltese in Happiness Is Pets? You may just find your next best friend.
Maltese breed profile
Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse.
Temperament
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Affection Devoted
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Playfulness Very playful
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With strangers Cautious
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Territorial Territorial
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Prey drive Low
Family & other pets
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Young children Excellent
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Older children Excellent
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Other dogs Sociable
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Cats Usually fine
Energy & exercise
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Energy Low
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Mental stimulation Moderate
Training
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Trainability Quick to learn
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Intelligence Very bright
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Stubbornness Biddable
Care & upkeep
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Shedding Very heavy
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Drooling None to speak of
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Barking Vocal
Home life
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Apartment living Well suited
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Time alone Short periods
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Cold weather Needs a coat
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Warm weather Needs shade
A good match for
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First-time owners Ideal first dog
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Senior owners Excellent
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Running partner Not suited
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Hiking Not suited
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Therapy work Good
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Guarding Low
Living with a Maltese
Temperament & Family Fit
The Maltese is a delightful little companion that thrives in a family environment. Their affectionate nature makes them an excellent choice for families with young children, as they are known for their gentle demeanor. Additionally, they generally get along well with other dogs and even cats, making them a perfect addition to multi-pet households.
Energy & Exercise
With a low energy level, the Maltese is quite content to enjoy leisurely walks around the block or playful indoor activities. They don't require extensive exercise, making them well-suited for apartment living and busy households. Just a short burst of playtime is usually enough to keep this little charmer happy!
Care & Grooming
Though the Maltese has a gorgeous coat that requires regular grooming, it's a small price to pay for such a stunning companion. You'll want to schedule professional grooming sessions to keep their long, silky fur looking its best and to minimize any potential tangles. With a shedding level of 5, they are considered low-shedding, which is great for keeping your living space tidy.
Training Notes
Maltese dogs are generally quite trainable, owing to their eagerness to please and intelligence. Consistent, positive reinforcement will be your best friend when it comes to teaching them commands and tricks. Just be mindful of their barking tendency; early socialization can help manage their vocalizations and ensure they grow up to be well-rounded companions.
Caring for a Maltese
- Grooming
- Professional grooming
- Grooming cost
- High
- Monthly food
- Low
- Outdoor space
- Manages without a yard
- Allergy friendly
- Often suits allergy sufferers
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Maltese a good breed for families with young children?
Absolutely! The Maltese is known for being exceptionally good with young kids, making them a wonderful companion for families. Their gentle nature and affectionate demeanor mean they tend to bond well with children, creating a loving environment.
How much exercise does a Maltese need?
Maltese dogs have a low energy level, which means they don't require extensive exercise. A few short walks or play sessions each day will keep them happy and healthy. They're quite content to snuggle up on the couch with you!
Are Maltese dogs good with other pets?
Yes, Maltese dogs generally get along well with other dogs and can even cohabit nicely with cats. Their friendly temperament and sociable nature make them adaptable companions in multi-pet households.
What can I expect in terms of grooming for a Maltese?
Maltese dogs require professional grooming to keep their beautiful coats looking their best. Regular grooming helps prevent mats and tangles, ensuring your furry friend stays looking lovely and feels comfortable.
Do Maltese dogs bark often?
While Maltese dogs are known for their barking tendency, it's manageable with proper training. They are usually alert and make great watchdogs, but with a bit of positive reinforcement, you can teach them when to be quiet!
