The Maltese is a distinct dog breed with its own history, purpose, physical traits, and care needs. It also appears in the family tree of one or more Doodle crosses featured in this directory.
Breed Background
The breed was originally developed for toy companion.
Size And Lifespan
Typical height: 7-9 in.
Typical weight: under 7 lb.
Typical lifespan: 12-15 yr.
Temperament And Activity
Common temperament tendencies include gentle, playful, alert, adaptable. Individual dogs still vary.
Typical activity level: Moderate.
Daily movement, training, play, and enrichment should be matched to the individual dog's age, health, build, and interests. Breed energy labels are useful benchmarks, not exact prescriptions.
Coat And Grooming
Typical coat: long silky single coat.
Typical shedding: low.
The Maltese reference coat is long silky single coat, with low shedding. Routine brushing and combing, nail care, dental care, ear checks, and coat-specific trimming or professional grooming may be needed. Exact care depends on coat length, texture, lifestyle, and clip.
Training And Daily Life
Breed references describe common tendencies such as gentle, playful, alert, adaptable. Training should account for the breed's history as a toy companion, while still treating the individual dog in front of you. Clear reinforcement, appropriate social development, and consistent handling matter more than labels alone.
Health Considerations
Health topics commonly discussed for this breed include patellar luxation, cardiac disease, liver shunt, dental disease, eye disease. A veterinarian can help explain what is relevant for an individual dog.
