With their flowing white coats and soulful eyes, Maltese dogs have captured hearts for centuries. But there’s more to this petite breed than just looks. Known for their affectionate nature, playful spirit, and unwavering loyalty, the Maltese stands out as one of the most charming companions you can welcome into your home. Whether you live in a small apartment or a large family house, this elegant breed fits right in—bringing joy, warmth, and endless cuddles.
The Maltese is among the best when it comes to being both charming, beautiful and a good companion. Its white coat, bright eyes and lively nature have made the Maltese a favourite of dog fans for years. Elegant and devoted, the Toy Poodle has always been ranked among the best small dog breeds for families, singles and senior citizens.
If you want a small dog that doesn’t cause allergies, makes little noise or sheds little, Maltese dogs are hard to beat. Let’s discover what makes this little white symbol so special to so many for thousands of years.
Breed Overview
- The breed is 7-9 inches tall.
- Weight: Less than 7 pounds
- They usually live for 12 to 15 years.
- Toy Group (AKC)
- The Mediterranean (possibly Malta) is where the breed originated.
- Coat Description: Long, smooth and made up of a single layer
- Personality: Mellow, playful and loving
History and Origin
For many years, the Maltese has been recognised as one of the oldest toy dogs in existence. Most likely, this breed began in the Mediterranean region and its name comes from Malta. In ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt, both royalty and aristocrats treasured it, showing it in their art and leaving it in their tombs.
The Maltese was created to be a company dog and its job hasn’t changed it’s still meant to be a loving lapdog. Because it is such a favourite, both nobility and modern pet owners keep it in their homes.
Appearance
The Maltese is easy to spot because of its bright white fur and well-groomed looks. In spite of their size, dogs can look very dignified and commanding.
Physical Features:
- Fur: Long, straight and silky white
- Eyes are dark, round and show a lot of emotion
- Muzzle: A bit narrower at the end and with a black nose
- Ears: Hang low, with hair falling over them
- Covered in a tuft of hair on the back and round in shape
- Size: Light and portable, with a frame weighing less than 7 pounds
Most Maltese are shown with a formal show coat or in a shorter “puppy cut” that is easier to look after and they are still considered among the most attractive small dog breeds.
Temperament and Personality
Many people recognize the Maltese for its gentle and loving character. Pets have a great connexion with humans and like to be admired. They look delicate, but they are confident, enthusiastic and can even be a bit playful.
Key Personality Traits:
- Cuddly: Loves to be next to family members.
- Has fun with games and toys that they can play with
- Will make noise to notify you but won’t bark a lot.
- Gentle: Calm and sweet by nature with the people close to them
- Efficient: Skilled at learning tricks and routines
If you want a pet that enjoys having fun quietly, the Maltese is the perfect breed for you.
Is the Maltese a Good Family Dog?
Yes! The Maltese is a good choice for families with older children who know how to take care of a small dog. They are also amazing pets for senior citizens and singles who seek a companion to love all the time.
Ideal For:
- Apartment dwellers
- People who have retired or are seniors
- Families that have children over a certain age
- People getting a dog for the first time
- Anyone who suffers from allergies (hypoallergenic tendencies)
Inside the house, they are not noisy which makes them suitable for many lifestyles.
Grooming and Coat Care
One of the most amazing things about Maltese is their coat, but it takes time and effort to maintain. Luckily, a lot of owners choose to trim their pet’s hair for something simple and still cute.
Grooming Needs:
- Make sure to brush your dog’s long coat daily to keep mats away.
- Bathing should happen every 1-2 weeks.
- Around the eyes, it’s important to clean regularly to stop tear staining.
- Look at your pet’s ears and nails on a weekly basis and cut them when they get too long.
- Every 4-6 weeks, your pet should be professionally groomed.
Do Maltese Dogs Shed?
No. Because the Maltese lacks an undercoat, it sheds only a little. This means they are a good pet for anyone with allergies since they don’t shed.
Are Maltese Dogs Hypoallergenic?
It’s true that Maltese dogs are considered pretty hypoallergenic. Since they rarely shed and do not produce a lot of dander, they are a smart choice for people with small dog allergies. Still, no breed is completely hypoallergenic, though the Maltese is especially close.
Exercise and Activity Needs
The Maltese is active but not hyper, needing only moderate daily exercise to stay healthy and happy.
Activity Recommendations:
- Short walks: Two 15-minute walks per day
- Indoor playtime: Interactive toys and light fetch
- Mental stimulation: Puzzle toys, treat games, and training sessions
They love attention and thrive when engaged but don’t require the intensity of high-energy breeds.
Training
Since Maltese are both clever and attentive, owners find training them a rewarding experience-particularly if they start early.
Training Tips:
- Give your pet treats, praise them or give them toys.
- Treat your pet gently and often-they like kindness.
- Socializing your dog early helps keep his barking under control.
- Taking care of potty training can be very patient, but dogs pick up the habit rapidly.
Many people suggest the Maltese for people who have never owned a dog because of how easy the breed is to please and train.
Health and Lifespan
The Maltese is a generally healthy breed with a long life expectancy when given proper care and nutrition.
Common Health Concerns:
- Dental issues (common in small breeds)
- Luxating patella (slipping kneecaps)
- White Shaker Syndrome (tremors in young dogs)
- Collapsed trachea
- Tear staining
With proper vet care, most Maltese live 12-15 years, and many live even longer.
Why the Maltese Is One of the Best Small Dog Breeds
Here’s the reason the Maltese is so often placed as a favoured small dog:
- This breed is one of the cutest small dogs with a particularly gorgeous coat.
- If you’re looking for a dog that won’t shed much and doesn’t trigger allergies, choose one of these small breeds.
- Hypoallergenic toys are ideal for people who like to live in clean houses.
- Calm at home, but when outside they are full of energy.
- A dog who stays loyal and loves you for many years
Final Thoughts
The Maltese has always been treasured in the world of dogs. Because it loves you so much, keeps the house tidy and is a sweet-natured companion, it is perfect for pet owners wanting a compact dog. No matter if you have a city apartment or a home in the suburbs, this breed fits right into your everyday life and brings a lot of joy.
If you want a dog that is small, gentle, beautiful and won’t bother you with allergies, the Maltese could be the one you need.
