Maltese Dogs 101: 11 Surprising Truths Every New Owner Should Know

July 22, 2026 - By Mario

Last updated: July 22, 2026

Quick Answer: Maltese dogs are ancient toy-breed companions known for their silky white coats, bold personalities, and surprisingly long lifespans of 12 to 15 years. They’re low-shedding, apartment-friendly, and deeply loyal – but they need consistent grooming, early training, and more mental stimulation than most new owners expect. This guide covers everything in Maltese Dogs 101 so you can give yours the best possible life.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Maltese dogs typically weigh under 7 pounds and stand around 7 to 9 inches tall [1]
They live 12 to 15 years on average – one of the longer lifespans in the toy group [2]
“Hypoallergenic” does not mean zero maintenance – their coats need daily or near-daily brushing
Luxating patella, dental disease, and tracheal collapse are the most common health concerns [3]
Maltese bark more than you might expect – boredom and anxiety are the top triggers
They do well in apartments but still need daily walks and mental stimulation
Early socialization with children is key – they can be fragile around very young kids
Puppy prices range from roughly $1,000 to $3,000+ depending on breeder and location [8]
They are one of the oldest known dog breeds, with roots going back over 2,000 years [5]
Consistent, positive-reinforcement training from day one prevents most behavioral problems

What Is a Maltese Dog Breed?

The Maltese is one of the oldest toy dog breeds in the world, with a history stretching back more than 2,000 years. Ancient Greek and Roman writings mention small white dogs from the island of Malta, and the breed has been a companion dog ever since. [5]

Today, the American Kennel Club (AKC) classifies the Maltese in the Toy Group. They’re bred purely for companionship, and it shows – these dogs are devoted, affectionate, and happiest when they’re close to their people. [1]

Their signature look is hard to miss: a long, silky, pure white coat, dark expressive eyes, and a compact body that fits easily in your lap.

How Big Do Maltese Dogs Get?

Maltese dogs are genuinely tiny. Adults typically weigh between 4 and 7 pounds and stand about 7 to 9 inches tall at the shoulder. [1]

Some breeders advertise “teacup” Maltese that are even smaller. Be cautious with this label – it’s not a recognized size category, and extremely small dogs often come with extra health risks.

Size at a glance:

Weight: 4 to 7 lbs (adult)
Height: 7 to 9 inches at the shoulder
Build: Compact, fine-boned, lightweight
Coat: Long, straight, silky white

Their small size makes them easy to carry and great for travel, but it also means they can be injured easily if dropped or stepped on.

How Much Do Maltese Dogs Cost?

A Maltese puppy from a reputable breeder typically costs between $1,000 and $3,000 in the United States. Show-quality dogs or those from champion bloodlines can go higher. [8]

Adoption from a rescue is a more affordable option, often ranging from $100 to $400 in fees.

Don’t forget ongoing costs:

Grooming (professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks): $50 to $100 per session
Veterinary care, dental cleanings, and preventive care
High-quality small-breed food
Toys, bedding, and supplies

Over a 12 to 15 year lifespan, the total cost of owning a Maltese adds up significantly. Budget for it before you bring one home.

Maltese Dogs Temperament and Personality

Maltese dogs are bold, playful, and deeply affectionate. They bond closely with their owners and tend to follow them from room to room. [2]

Don’t let the small size fool you. These dogs have big personalities. They’re curious, alert, and sometimes stubborn – which means training matters more than most people think.

Personality traits you’ll notice quickly:

Very affectionate and love physical closeness
Alert and vocal – they will bark at strangers or unusual sounds
Playful but not overly demanding of exercise
Can develop separation anxiety if left alone too often
Intelligent and quick to learn, but can be willful

One thing that surprises new owners is how confident Maltese dogs are. They don’t act like fragile little dogs. They’ll happily approach a much larger dog without hesitation.

Maltese vs Shih Tzu: Which Is Better?

Both are small, affectionate companion dogs – but they have real differences. The Maltese is lighter, more energetic, and tends to be more vocal. The Shih Tzu is slightly heavier, calmer, and often more tolerant of young children. [1][2]

Choose a Maltese if you:

Want a lighter, more active companion
Live alone or with adults
Prefer a dog that’s easier to carry

Choose a Shih Tzu if you:

Have young children at home
Want a slightly calmer temperament
Don’t mind a bit more shedding

For a deeper look at the Shih Tzu side of this comparison, check out these surprising facts about Shih Tzu dogs that might help you decide.

Both breeds need regular grooming. Neither is truly “low maintenance” in that department.

Maltese Dog Grooming Requirements and Maintenance

Grooming is one of the biggest commitments in Maltese Dogs 101 – and the one most new owners underestimate. The long, silky coat mats easily and needs brushing at least 4 to 5 times per week, ideally daily. [6]

Most pet owners opt for a “puppy cut” – a shorter trim that’s much easier to manage. Show dogs keep the full-length coat, but that requires serious daily upkeep.

Basic grooming routine:

Daily brushing with a soft slicker brush to prevent mats
Bathing every 1 to 2 weeks with a gentle dog shampoo
Eye cleaning daily – tear staining is very common in this breed
Ear checks weekly for moisture or debris
Nail trimming every 3 to 4 weeks
Dental brushing daily or at minimum 3 times per week

Tear staining (the reddish-brown marks under the eyes) is one of the most common cosmetic concerns. It’s caused by excessive tearing and is usually manageable with regular cleaning and sometimes dietary adjustments.

For a practical at-home routine, see this 15-minute Maltese grooming routine that prevents mats.

Do Maltese Dogs Shed a Lot?

Maltese dogs shed very little compared to most breeds. Their coat is more similar to human hair than typical dog fur, which is why they’re often called hypoallergenic. [9]

However, “hypoallergenic” is not the same as “allergy-proof.” Maltese still produce dander and saliva proteins that trigger allergies in sensitive people. The difference is that loose hair doesn’t spread around your home as much.

What this means practically:

Less vacuuming of furniture and floors
Still requires regular brushing to remove dead hair from the coat
Allergy sufferers should spend time with the breed before committing

If low-shedding is a priority for you, also consider looking at large hypoallergenic dog breeds for comparison.

Maltese Dogs Health Problems and Issues

Maltese are generally healthy dogs, but they do have breed-specific vulnerabilities worth knowing. The most common issues include luxating patella, dental disease, tracheal collapse, and hypoglycemia in puppies. [3][4]

Key health concerns:

Luxating patella – the kneecap slips out of place, causing limping or skipping steps [7]
Dental disease – small mouths mean crowded teeth and faster plaque buildup
Tracheal collapse – the windpipe weakens over time, causing a honking cough [4]
Hypoglycemia – low blood sugar, especially in puppies and very small adults
White Dog Shaker Syndrome – a neurological condition seen more in white-coated breeds [3]
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – gradual vision loss [7]

Use a harness instead of a neck collar to reduce tracheal stress. Schedule regular dental cleanings with your vet – dental disease is one of the most overlooked health issues in small breeds.

If you notice your dog showing signs of discomfort, it helps to know the early signs of pain in dogs before problems escalate.

Maltese Dog Lifespan: How Long Do They Live?

Maltese dogs live an average of 12 to 15 years, and some reach 17 or even older with excellent care. [2][9]

This is great news – but it also means a long-term commitment. A Maltese puppy you bring home today could still be with you in 2040.

Factors that affect lifespan:

Regular veterinary checkups and dental care
Healthy diet appropriate for a small breed
Maintaining a healthy weight (obesity shortens lifespan in any breed)
Avoiding injuries – falls and rough handling are a real risk for tiny dogs
Early detection and treatment of breed-specific conditions

The long lifespan is one of the most compelling reasons to choose a Maltese – but make sure you’re ready for that level of commitment.

Are Maltese Dogs Good for Apartments?

Yes, Maltese dogs are excellent apartment dogs. Their small size, moderate exercise needs, and quiet indoor nature make them one of the best breeds for apartment living. [1][6]

They don’t need a yard. A couple of short daily walks and some indoor playtime is usually enough to keep them happy and healthy.

Tips for apartment life with a Maltese:

Walk them at least twice a day, even if the walks are short
Provide puzzle toys and indoor games to prevent boredom
Manage barking early – neighbors in apartments will notice
Create a cozy, consistent space that feels safe and familiar

The one challenge in apartments is barking. Maltese are alert dogs and will vocalize at sounds in the hallway or neighboring units. Early training helps a lot.

Why Does My Maltese Dog Bark So Much?

Maltese dogs bark more than average, and it’s one of the top complaints from new owners. The main triggers are boredom, separation anxiety, alerting to sounds, and attention-seeking. [6][9]

This is a breed trait, not a flaw – but it can be managed with the right approach.

Common barking triggers:

Sounds in the hallway or outside
Being left alone (separation anxiety is common in this breed)
Wanting attention or play
Unfamiliar people or animals
Under-stimulation and boredom

The fix is usually a combination of training, exercise, and mental enrichment. Punishment doesn’t work well with Maltese – it tends to increase anxiety. Positive reinforcement and redirection are far more effective.

For practical strategies, read this guide on how to stop dogs from barking without yelling or punishment.

Are Maltese Dogs Good for Families With Kids?

Maltese dogs can be good family dogs, but they’re best suited to families with older children (generally 8 and up). Their small, fragile frames make them vulnerable to accidental injury from rough handling by toddlers or young kids. [1][2]

Works well when:

Children are old enough to understand gentle handling
Adults supervise all interactions
The dog has been socialized with kids from a young age

May not be ideal when:

Very young children are in the home
Kids tend to be rough or unpredictable
The dog has no safe space to retreat to

With the right setup and supervision, Maltese dogs can be wonderful, loving companions for families. They’re playful, gentle, and patient when treated with care.

Common Mistakes New Maltese Owners Make

Most problems with Maltese dogs trace back to a handful of avoidable mistakes. Here’s what to watch for in your first year.

Mistake 1: Skipping dental care
Dental disease is the number one health issue in small breeds. Brush those teeth regularly and schedule professional cleanings. [3]

Mistake 2: Using a neck collar instead of a harness
Neck collars put pressure on the trachea. Always use a harness to protect against tracheal collapse. [4]

Mistake 3: Letting them get away with bad behavior because they’re cute
“Small dog syndrome” is real. Maltese will push boundaries if you let them. Train them the same way you’d train any dog.

Mistake 4: Skipping socialization
Early exposure to people, sounds, and other animals prevents fear and aggression later.

Mistake 5: Leaving them alone too long
Maltese are companion dogs. Long hours alone regularly leads to separation anxiety and destructive behavior.

Mistake 6: Overfeeding
Their tiny bodies don’t need much food. Obesity causes joint problems and shortens lifespan.

For a full breakdown of what to expect, see our honest pros and cons of owning a Maltese.

Maltese Dog Training Tips and Tricks

Maltese dogs are intelligent and respond well to training – but they can be stubborn. The key is starting early, keeping sessions short, and using positive reinforcement consistently. [2][9]

Training basics that work:

Keep sessions to 5 to 10 minutes – short attention spans respond better to frequent brief sessions than long ones
Use high-value treats – small, soft treats work best for tiny mouths
Be consistent – every family member should use the same commands and rules
Socialize early – expose puppies to different people, sounds, and environments before 16 weeks
Address potty training immediately – Maltese can be slow to housetrain; crate training helps

For potty training specifically, this guide on how to potty train a Maltese puppy without accidents is worth bookmarking.

One common issue is biting during puppyhood. Check out tips on how to make a puppy stop biting before it becomes a habit.

FAQ: Maltese Dogs 101

Q: Are Maltese dogs truly hypoallergenic?
A: They shed very little and produce less airborne dander than many breeds, making them a better choice for allergy sufferers. But no dog is 100% allergy-free. Spend time with the breed before committing. [9]

Q: How much exercise does a Maltese need daily?
A: About 20 to 30 minutes of walking per day, split into two short sessions, is usually enough. They also benefit from indoor play and mental stimulation.

Q: Can Maltese dogs be left alone during the day?
A: They can handle a few hours alone, but they’re prone to separation anxiety. If you work long hours, consider a dog walker, doggy daycare, or a second pet for company.

Q: What should I feed my Maltese?
A: A high-quality small-breed dry food is a good foundation. Small breeds have fast metabolisms and benefit from food designed for their size. Ask your vet for a specific recommendation. You can also explore superfoods for dogs that vets recommend.

Q: Do Maltese dogs get along with other pets?
A: Generally yes, especially when socialized early. They can live well with cats and other dogs, though their small size means supervision around large dogs is wise.

Q: When do Maltese puppies reach full size?
A: Most Maltese reach their adult size by around 12 months, though some fill out slightly until 18 months.

Q: Are Maltese dogs easy to train?
A: They’re smart and eager to please, but can be stubborn. Consistent positive reinforcement works well. Harsh corrections backfire with this breed.

Q: How often should I bathe my Maltese?
A: Every 1 to 2 weeks is typical. More frequent baths can dry out the skin and coat.

Q: Why does my Maltese have tear stains?
A: Tear staining is very common in white-coated breeds. It’s caused by excess tearing and oxidation. Daily eye cleaning and sometimes dietary changes can reduce it. [6]

Q: Is a Maltese a good first dog?
A: Yes, for the right person. They’re manageable in size and affectionate by nature. The grooming commitment and tendency toward separation anxiety are the two things first-time owners most often underestimate.

Conclusion

Maltese Dogs 101 covers a lot of ground – and for good reason. These little dogs are full of surprises. They’re ancient, bold, loving, and long-lived. They fit beautifully into apartments and smaller homes. But they also need daily grooming, consistent training, dental care, and real companionship.

The owners who struggle with Maltese are usually the ones who assumed “small dog” meant “easy dog.” It doesn’t. The owners who thrive are the ones who go in prepared.

Your next steps:

Set up a grooming routine before your dog comes home
Buy a harness – not a collar
Find a vet experienced with small breeds and schedule a dental baseline
Start training and socialization in the first week
Plan for the long haul – this dog could be with you for 15 years

If you want to go deeper, read our full guide on adorable Maltese facts every new owner needs to know for even more detail on this wonderful breed.

References

[1] Maltese Dog Breed Profile – https://www.thesprucepets.com/maltese-dog-breed-profile-1117979
[2] Maltese – https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/maltese
[3] Common Maltese Health Problems Concerns – https://a-z-animals.com/blog/common-maltese-health-problems-concerns/
[4] Maltese Health Issues Guide – https://www.petscare.com/en-au/news/post/maltese-health-issues-guide
[5] Maltese Dog – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maltese_dog
[6] Maltese – https://www.poochandmutt.co.uk/blogs/by-breed/maltese
[7] Breed Related Disease Maltese Dog – https://www.bioguardlabs.com/breed-related-disease-maltese-dog/
[8] Maltese Dog Breed – https://www.pawlicy.com/blog/maltese-dog-breed/
[9] Facts About Maltese Dogs – https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/facts-about-maltese-dogs/