The maltese dog is a small companion breed best known for its long, silky white coat and lively, affectionate personality. Belonging to the AKC Toy Group, the Maltese is gentle mannered yet fearless, combining a big personality with a tiny frame that makes it an endearing addition to almost any household. Their playful, devoted nature has made the Maltese dog a longtime favorite as a family companion, and with daily coat care, this charming little breed thrives as a loyal, loving member of the family.
Breed History & Origin
The Maltese is considered one of the oldest companion dog breeds, with a history that stretches back to antiquity and references found throughout Ancient Greek and Roman literature. Long associated with the Mediterranean island of Malta, these small white dogs were prized as cherished pets and companions among nobility and commoners alike for centuries. While the modern Maltese breed as we know it today emerged more recently, refined through selective breeding in the Victorian era, its legacy as one of the world’s oldest and most beloved lap dogs has carried through to the present, making the Maltese dog a true icon of companionship.
Appearance & Physical Characteristics
The Maltese dog has a delicate, elegant look defined by its long, flowing white coat.
- Size: Small toy breed, typically weighing under 7 pounds and standing 7–9 inches tall
- Build: Compact and fine-boned, yet sturdy for its size
- Coat: Long, silky, and pure white, hanging straight without curls or an undercoat
- Distinct Features:
- Dark, expressive eyes set in a sweet, alert expression
- Drop ears covered in long, flowing fur
- A plumed tail that curves gracefully over the back
This elegant, flowing coat has long been the breed’s signature trait, dating back to its earliest depictions as a beloved lap dog in ancient art and literature.
Temperament & Personality
Maltese temperament is best described as lively yet affectionate, with a personality far bigger than its tiny frame would suggest.
- Gentle mannered and sweet with family
- Fearless and confident despite their small size
- Playful and energetic indoors
- Deeply bonded to their owners and eager for closeness
This blend of affection and spunk is exactly why the Maltese dog has remained such a popular and endearing companion for centuries.
What This Breed Is Known For
The Maltese dog is renowned for:
- Its long, silky white coat that has defined the breed for centuries
- Being one of the oldest known companion dog breeds in history
- A lively, affectionate temperament paired with a fearless spirit
- Thriving as a devoted lap dog and family companion
Few breeds combine ancient pedigree with such an irresistibly charming personality, which is part of why the Maltese remains a favorite among toy breed lovers.
Ideal Owner & Living Situation
The Maltese adapts beautifully to a variety of homes thanks to its small size and people-oriented nature.
Best fit for:
- Apartment dwellers and those with limited space
- Owners who can commit to daily grooming
- Families with older children who know how to handle a small dog gently
- Companion-focused owners who want a dog that stays close by
Considerations:
- Can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone too long
- Best suited to households with older, gentle children rather than very young or rambunctious kids
Exercise & Activity Needs
The Maltese dog is playful and energetic but does not require vigorous exercise to stay happy and healthy.
- Daily walks around the neighborhood
- Indoor or backyard playtime
- Learning new tricks and short training games
Because Maltese can become bored or anxious if left alone too long, pairing light daily activity with companionship and mental stimulation helps prevent unwanted behaviors like excessive barking.
Grooming & Maintenance
The Maltese dog’s long, silky coat is one of its most beloved features, but it requires daily upkeep to stay healthy and tangle-free.
- Daily brushing or combing to prevent mats and tangles
- Regular bathing to keep the coat and skin clean and healthy
- Routine eye care to manage tear staining common in white-coated breeds
- Daily dental care, since toy breeds are prone to dental disease
Owners who prefer a lighter grooming routine can opt for a shorter trim, but either way, consistent care is essential to keeping a Maltese comfortable and looking its best.
Health & Lifespan
The Maltese dog is a generally healthy breed that, with proper care, often enjoys a long life by canine standards.
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Routine veterinary checkups and early screening for inherited conditions support long-term health
With consistent grooming, dental care, and regular vet visits, the Maltese dog can live a full and happy life well into its teens.
Health Concerns and Considerations
The maltese dog is considered a generally healthy breed with relatively few major health concerns, but there are some inherited conditions owners should be aware of. Luxating patella, where one or both kneecaps slip out of place, is fairly common in the breed and can predispose dogs to other knee injuries and arthritis if left unaddressed. Maltese can also be born with congenital heart or liver conditions, such as patent ductus arteriosus or liver shunts, which is why responsible breeders screen puppies for these issues before placing them in homes.
Because they are a toy breed, Maltese dogs are also at heightened risk for dental disease, making daily tooth brushing and routine dental cleanings important parts of their care. Their white coats can be prone to tear staining as well, which is generally cosmetic but should be monitored alongside any other eye discharge.
Routine veterinary checkups, early screening for inherited conditions, and consistent at-home dental and coat care go a long way toward keeping a Maltese healthy throughout its long lifespan.
Training & Socialization
Training a Maltese is a rewarding experience thanks to the breed’s intelligence and eagerness to please.
- Picks up cues quickly with positive reinforcement
- Responds best to short, fun training sessions
- Early socialization helps build confidence and good manners around new people and pets
Because Maltese are small and food motivated, owners should keep an eye on treat portions during training to help maintain a healthy weight.
Pros & Considerations
Pros:
- Affectionate, playful, and devoted companion
- Low exercise needs, well suited to apartments and smaller homes
- Generally healthy with a long lifespan
- Gentle mannered yet fearless personality
Considerations:
- Daily brushing and grooming required to prevent matting
- Can develop separation anxiety if left alone often
- Best matched with older children rather than very young kids
Is This the Right Breed for You?
The Maltese dog is an excellent choice for owners who want an affectionate, playful companion and are ready to commit to daily grooming. If you’re looking for a small, devoted dog that thrives on closeness with its family, doesn’t require intense exercise, and brings a lively, fearless spirit into a compact package, the Maltese could be the perfect fit for your home.
Available Puppies
If you’re ready to welcome a Maltese into your home, work with trusted, reputable breeders.
Browse maltese puppies for available dogs. You can also explore all available puppies for more options.
If you’re new to dog ownership, our first-time dog owner guide will help you prepare for your new companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Maltese a good family dog?
Yes, Maltese are very affectionate and loving toward their families, making them wonderful companions, especially in households with older, gentle children.
Are Maltese good with kids?
Maltese can do well with kids who understand how to handle small dogs gently, but their tiny size makes them better suited to families with older children rather than very young ones.
How big do Maltese get?
Maltese are a tiny toy breed, typically weighing under 7 pounds and standing 7–9 inches tall.
Do Maltese shed?
Maltese shed very minimally compared to many other breeds, which is part of why they’re often considered a good option for people with mild dog allergies.
How much grooming does a Maltese dog need?
Maltese need daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles in their long coat, along with periodic bathing and grooming to keep their coat healthy and beautiful.
