Dog · Small Breed
Maltese
The Maltese is a small toy breed known for its long, silky white coat and affectionate, people-oriented personality. These dogs are lively and intelligent, but they are also gentle companions that often bond closely with their families. Despite their delicate appearance, Maltese can be surprisingly spirited and confident.
The Calculator
How old is your Maltese in human years?
At 1 year old
Your Maltese is approximately 15 in human years.
Field Notes
About the Maltese
The Maltese is an ancient breed with roots in the Mediterranean region, especially around Malta, where it was prized as a companion dog for centuries. Historically, nobles and aristocrats favored the breed for its elegant appearance and charming personality. Over time, the Maltese became known worldwide as a devoted lap dog with a refined but sturdy nature.
In temperament, Maltese are affectionate, alert, and very attached to their people. They usually do well in apartments and smaller homes because of their size, but they still enjoy interaction, play, and mental stimulation. Many Maltese are friendly and social, though some can be a little wary of strangers or vocal if not well socialized.
Care for a Maltese centers heavily on coat maintenance, dental hygiene, and gentle but consistent training. Their long hair can mat easily without regular brushing, and tear staining around the eyes is common and often needs routine cleaning. Because small breeds are prone to dental disease, regular tooth brushing and professional veterinary dental care are especially important.
Maltese do not need intense exercise, but they benefit from short daily walks and indoor play sessions to stay fit and mentally engaged. Most are energetic in bursts rather than endurance athletes, so moderate activity is usually enough. They also enjoy companionship-based activities and can become unhappy if left alone for long periods.
Temperament
Exercise Needs
moderate
Health Watch
- Dental disease
- Patellar luxation
- Tracheal collapse
- Portosystemic shunt (liver shunt)
- White shaker syndrome
Grooming
The Maltese requires frequent brushing and regular grooming to prevent tangles and keep the coat and face clean.
Growth Curve
Maltese weight chart
Typical weight progression from young to adult. The tinted band marks the healthy adult range — 1.5–3 kg.
Nutrition, Staged
Maltese Feeding Guide
Stage-based portions tuned to breed energy requirements. Use as a starting point — your veterinarian tailors the final numbers.
Formative years
Young
Follow breed-specific puppy feeding guidelines
Peak years
Adult
Follow breed-specific adult feeding guidelines
Mature years
Senior
Follow breed-specific senior feeding guidelines
Questions, Answered
On the Maltese
Are Maltese good family dogs? Maltese are usually affectionate and devoted family companions, especially in homes that handle them gently and respectfully. Because they are small and somewhat delicate, they are often better suited to families with older children who understand how to interact carefully with a toy breed.
Do Maltese bark a lot? Maltese can be alert and vocal, particularly when they hear unfamiliar sounds or see strangers near the home. Early socialization and calm, consistent training can help prevent excessive barking from becoming a habit.
How much exercise does a Maltese need? A Maltese typically does well with short daily walks and light play rather than heavy exercise. Mental stimulation, attention from family members, and a predictable routine are just as important as physical activity for this breed.
Is the Maltese a hypoallergenic breed? No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but the Maltese is often better tolerated by some allergy sufferers because it sheds very little. Individual reactions vary, so spending time around the breed before bringing one home is still the safest approach.
What should owners watch for in a Maltese's health? Owners should pay close attention to dental health, kneecap problems, coughing or breathing changes, and any signs of neurologic issues such as tremors. Regular veterinary checkups are important because small breeds can hide discomfort until a problem becomes more advanced.
Adjacent Breeds
