Breed Characteristics
- Breed Group: Toy Group
- Height: 7–9 inches
- Weight: Under 7 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 12–15 years
- Coat: Long, straight, silky, and single-layered
- Color: White
- Temperament: Affectionate, playful, gentle, lively, responsive
- Energy Level: Moderate
Intelligence & Trainability
Maltese are intelligent dogs that can learn commands, tricks, and household routines. Their eagerness to interact with their owners can make training enjoyable.
Positive reinforcement using praise, treats, toys, and play is a useful approach.
Early puppy training should include:
- House training
- Basic obedience
- Leash manners
- Socialization
- Appropriate barking
- Recall
- Comfortable handling
House training may require patience and consistency because of the Maltese’s small size and relatively small bladder.
Grooming Requirements
The Maltese’s long, silky white coat requires regular grooming and careful maintenance.
A grooming routine may include:
- Daily brushing for long coats
- Regular professional grooming
- Bathing as needed
- Nail trimming
- Ear cleaning
- Routine dental care
- Cleaning around the eyes
Many owners choose a shorter haircut to make everyday coat maintenance easier.
Tear staining can occur around the eyes, so regular gentle cleaning may help keep the facial area clean. Grooming should be introduced gradually during puppyhood so the dog becomes comfortable with brushing and handling.
Maltese Puppies & Children
Maltese can be affectionate and playful family companions, but their small size makes gentle handling especially important.
They may be better suited to families with older children who understand how to interact appropriately with a small dog. Young children should be taught not to pick up a puppy without assistance, pull its coat, or engage in rough play.
Young children should always be supervised around Maltese puppies.
With proper socialization, Maltese can also become comfortable around other dogs and household pets.
Is a Maltese Puppy Right for You?
A Maltese puppy may be a great choice if you’re looking for a dog that is:
- Small and affectionate
- Playful and lively
- Adaptable to apartment living
- People-oriented
- Relatively easy to exercise
- Long-lived
Prospective owners should be prepared for regular grooming and dental care. Because of their small size, Maltese also require careful handling and protection from accidental injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Maltese puppies good family pets?
Yes. Maltese can be affectionate, playful, and devoted companions. They are often best suited to families with older children who understand gentle handling.
Are Maltese easy to train?
Maltese are intelligent and can learn quickly with positive reinforcement. Consistency and patience are particularly important for house training.
Do Maltese shed?
Maltese have a single coat and generally shed very little compared with many other breeds. However, loose hair can become trapped in the coat, making regular brushing important. No dog is completely hypoallergenic.
How much exercise does a Maltese need?
Maltese have moderate exercise needs. Short daily walks, indoor play, and interactive games are generally sufficient for most adults.
Are Maltese good with children?
They can be good companions for older children who know how to handle small dogs gently. Young children should always be supervised around a Maltese puppy.
Do Maltese get along with other pets?
With early socialization and careful introductions, many Maltese can live comfortably with other dogs and household pets.
