Small breed
Maltese Puppies
Tiny, affectionate companions for every family
- Adult weight 4–7 lbs
- Height 8–10 in
- Lifespan 12–15 years
- Exercise 30 min a day
2 available now
Available Maltese Puppies
About the Maltese
If you are looking for a small companion that brings joy and affection into your home, the Maltese might be the perfect fit for your family. Originating from the Mediterranean region, this breed has a rich history as a cherished pet among nobles and aristocrats. Their charming personality and playful demeanor made them a favorite throughout the ages. Today, they continue to captivate hearts with their loving nature and lively spirit.
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Maltese are incredibly affectionate and thrive on human companionship, making them ideal for families with young children as well as those with other pets. Their friendly disposition allows them to get along well with both dogs and cats. With a moderate energy level, they enjoy playtime but are equally happy snuggling up on the couch. Most importantly, Maltese adapt beautifully to apartment living, making them suitable for various home settings.
While they may require daily grooming to maintain their iconic silky coat, their shedding is relatively low, which helps keep your living space tidy. Their slightly higher barking tendency makes them good watchdogs, and they will alert you to any newcomers. This breed is quite intelligent and eager to learn, so with patience and consistency, you’ll find them to be quite trainable and responsive to commands.
In summary, if you want a devoted companion that will shower your family with love and joy, consider welcoming a Maltese into your life. Their winning combination of personality, adaptability, and charm makes them an exceptional addition to any home.
Maltese breed profile
Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse.
Temperament
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Affection Devoted
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Playfulness Very playful
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With strangers Friendly
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Territorial Relaxed
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Prey drive Low
Family & other pets
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Young children Good
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Older children Good
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Other dogs Sociable
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Cats Usually fine
Energy & exercise
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Energy Moderate
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Mental stimulation Moderate
Training
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Trainability Quick to learn
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Intelligence Very bright
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Stubbornness Biddable
Care & upkeep
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Shedding Light
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Drooling None to speak of
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Barking Vocal
Home life
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Apartment living Well suited
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Time alone Short periods
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Cold weather Needs a coat
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Warm weather Average
A good match for
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First-time owners Ideal first dog
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Senior owners Excellent
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Running partner Not suited
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Hiking Not suited
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Therapy work Good
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Guarding Not a guard dog
Living with a Maltese
Temperament & Family Fit
The Maltese is known for its delightful temperament, making it a wonderful family companion. With an affectionate nature and a playful spirit, this breed thrives on human interaction and is very good with young kids, other dogs, and even cats. Their loving demeanor and friendly attitude make them a popular choice for families who want a furry friend to be part of their everyday life.
Energy & Exercise
<p.With a moderate energy level, Maltese dogs enjoy both playtime and cuddles. They are quite adaptable and can thrive in an apartment setting, making them perfect for city dwellers. Daily walks and some playtime will keep them happy and healthy, ensuring they get the exercise they need without overwhelming their owners.
Care & Grooming
Caring for a Maltese is relatively straightforward, as their charming white coat requires weekly grooming to keep it looking pristine. They shed very little, making them a good option for those with allergies. Regular brushing helps to prevent matting and ensures that their coat stays silky and beautiful.
Training Notes
<p.Maltese dogs are fairly easy to train, thanks to their high trainability and eagerness to please their owners. Positive reinforcement works best with this breed, so be prepared to offer plenty of praise and treats. They can be a bit vocal at times, so early training can help manage any unnecessary barking.
Caring for a Maltese
- Grooming
- Daily brushing
- Grooming cost
- Average
- Monthly food
- Low
- Outdoor space
- Manages without a yard
- Allergy friendly
- Often suits allergy sufferers
Maltese Video
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the size of a Maltese dog?
Maltese dogs are small in size, typically weighing between four to eight pounds. Their petite stature makes them perfect companions, especially for those living in apartments or smaller homes.
How much exercise does a Maltese need?
Maltese dogs have a moderate energy level and require regular, short walks and playtime to stay happy and healthy. They enjoy interactive games and can thrive indoors, making them excellent companions for busy families.
Are Maltese dogs good with children and other pets?
Yes, Maltese dogs are known for being good with young kids and other pets, including cats and dogs. Their gentle temperament and affectionate nature make them wonderful family pets.
How often do Maltese dogs need grooming?
Maltese dogs have a beautiful coat that requires weekly grooming to keep it looking its best. Regular brushing helps prevent tangles and matting, and it also gives you a chance to bond with your pup.
Do Maltese dogs bark a lot?
Maltese dogs have a moderate barking tendency, meaning they will alert you to visitors and unusual sounds. However, with proper training and socialization, you can help manage their barking to keep it to a minimum.
