Maltese

Weight

2-4 kg

Height

20-25 cm shoulder height

Lifespan

12-15 years

Health figures are breed averages for general guidance only. Always consult a licensed veterinarian.

Character & traits

Energy

Affection

Playfulness

Watchfulness

With children

With other dogs

With strangers

Trainability

For beginners

Shedding

Drooling

Practical

Exercise per day: ~25 minutes
Max alone: 3 hours
Garden needed: No
Apartment: Suitable
Insurance: $40–$60/mo
Food: $30–$45/mo

Frequently asked questions

Is the Maltese suitable for beginners?+

Manageable, but not the easiest for beginners. The Maltese benefits from consistent training and clear boundaries — achievable with the right guidance.

How much exercise does a Maltese need?+

The Maltese needs about 25 minutes of exercise per day. A short daily walk is enough for this breed.

Is the Maltese good with children?+

The Maltese does reasonably well with children, especially when well-socialized from a young age. Supervision around young children is always wise.

Find out if the Maltese is right for you.

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What Maltese owners typically need

🥩

Food

Small breed food

Smaller kibble, adjusted for the faster metabolism of small dogs.

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🎾

Accessories

Adjustable leash

A leash you can shorten or lengthen: useful for training and walks.

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✂️

Grooming

Nail clipper

Not much coat to brush, but nails keep growing. Clip them every 2-3 weeks.

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🛡️ Insurance

Pet insurance for the Maltese typically runs $44–$66/month for basic accident and illness coverage. What you pay depends on the dog's age and your location.

Health information is for general guidance only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian.

Is pet insurance worth it for this breed? →