Dog breed · Toy
Maltese
An ancient white lap dog, sweet-natured and adaptable to small homes.
Small12–15 yearsMediterranean (Malta)Can suit apartments
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Breed characteristics
- Group
- Toy
- Origin
- Mediterranean (Malta)
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 3–4 kg (6–9 lb)
- Height
- 20–25 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Long, straight, white single coat
- Temperament
- GentlePlayfulAttachedBright
History
Documented around the Mediterranean for more than two thousand years as an aristocratic companion.
Appearance
Tiny, elegant and pure white with dark eyes and a floor-length coat when shown.
Exercise and activity
Short daily walks plus indoor play.
Care and grooming
Daily brushing or a short puppy clip, daily tooth brushing and gentle tear-stain cleaning.
Health considerations
- Dental disease
- Patellar luxation
- Tracheal collapse
- Portosystemic shunt
- White shaker syndrome
Honest challenges
Before choosing a Maltese
- Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
- Check your routine can support the activity described here: Short daily walks plus indoor play. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
- Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Dental disease, Patellar luxation, Tracheal collapse, Portosystemic shunt, White shaker syndrome), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime.
- Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- Dogs Trust — dog care, behaviour and welfare advice