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Breed profile

Maltese

An ancient Mediterranean lapdog in a floor-length white coat. Sweet, lively and smart, and quick to raise the alarm.

Long-coated white Maltese lying among brown autumn leaves, looking up at the camera
Maltese in autumn leavesPhoto: Toby Weisenhaus / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.5
Weight
3–4 kg7–9 lb
Height
20–25 cm8–10 in
Lifespan
12–15 yrs
Group
Toy
Origin
Malta & Italy
Popularity
#37 US#48 UK · 2025

Known for: Flat-friendlyLap dogsLow shedding

Energy
Shedding
Trainability
Barking
Good with kids
Flat-friendly

Temperament

Sweet, Lively, Affectionate, Alert.

Health problems to know about

  • Patellar luxation
  • Patent ductus arteriosus
  • Portosystemic (liver) shunt
  • Tear staining

Ask breeders for the parents' health test results, and check what your national breed club recommends screening for.

Daily care

Daily brushing for a full coat, or a short puppy clip for an easier life. Wipe the face to keep tear stains down. Up to 30 minutes of walks and play a day.

A good fit for

Flats, adults and older owners, people who want a small companion and enjoy grooming.

Probably not ideal for

Homes with toddlers (a Maltese is fragile), owners who want a rugged outdoor dog, anyone who won't groom.

Sources

  1. Royal Kennel Club: Maltese
  2. Wikipedia: Maltese dog

Popularity: AKC 2025 registration rankings (US); Royal Kennel Club 2025 registrations (UK, ranked by us). Breed traits are tendencies, not guarantees. Individual dogs vary, and mixed breeds and rescues can be wonderful fits too.

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