Maltese
Maltese are sweet, devoted little companions who genuinely thrive on being close to their people. They have a surprisingly playful, almost mischievous side and will happily zoom around the living room before curling up in your lap. In a family home, they bond deeply with everyone and tend to follow their favorite humans from room to room, always wanting to be part of the action.
Behavior & traits
- affectionate lap dog
- gentle with respectful kids
- alert watchdog
- people oriented
- playful
Health concerns
Maltese are generally long-lived but can be prone to dental issues, luxating patellas, and sensitive digestion. Their small size also makes them vulnerable to injury from rough handling or jumping off furniture, so families should be mindful of safe play. Routine vet checkups and good dental care go a long way in keeping them healthy well into their senior years.
Responsible breeding and regular check-ups go a long way. Always ask breeders about health testing.
Feeding & nutrition
A high-quality small-breed kibble or balanced fresh diet works well, typically split into two small meals a day to support their fast metabolism and prevent blood sugar dips. Watch portions carefully — Maltese are tiny, and even a few extra treats can lead to weight gain. Some have sensitive stomachs, so consistent, gentle foods tend to suit them best.
Exercise needs
Maltese need moderate daily activity — a couple of short walks plus indoor play is usually plenty. Families can easily meet their needs with backyard games, gentle fetch, or supervised playtime with the kids. They're adaptable little dogs who'll match your pace, whether it's a busy household or a quiet afternoon at home.
Living with a Maltese
Living with a Maltese is like having a tiny, fluffy shadow who genuinely adores you. They love being involved in everything — meal prep, movie nights, school drop-off chaos — and will happily hop into a lap the moment one becomes available. Families are often surprised by how much personality is packed into such a small package; they're playful, sometimes a little sassy, and quick to alert you to a knock at the door. Daily grooming and gentle handling become part of the rhythm, especially with kids learning how to interact with a delicate dog. They do best when they're not left alone for long stretches, so they're a wonderful fit for households where someone is usually home.
Recommended products
A quality slicker brush, metal comb, and tear-stain wipes are essentials for keeping that signature white coat clean and tangle-free. Invest in a soft step-in harness rather than a collar to protect their delicate trachea, and pick up small-breed dental chews along with a finger toothbrush for daily dental care. A cozy elevated bed and pet stairs for the couch help protect their joints, and small, soft plush toys are perfect for their playful nature.
Reads for Maltese owners
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A Grooming Guide for Dogs That Need a Little Extra Care
If your dog's coat keeps growing instead of shedding out, you know the drill: one skipped week and suddenly there are mats hiding under all that fluff. Here's how to brush, bathe, and dry a long-haired dog the right way at home — plus the exact moment to hand things off to a pro.
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Engaging Activities for Border Collies: A How-To Guide
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Before the Puppy Arrives: A Pre-Arrival Checklist for Your Senior Dog
Your calm senior dog has been quietly compensating for aches, stiffness, and fading senses for years — and a new puppy is about to expose all of it. This pre-arrival checklist walks you through the vet workup, pain baseline, and home setup to tackle in the weeks *before* pickup day, so your older dog isn't blindsided by the chaos.