Small breed
Maltese Puppies
Maltese love: small, cuddly, and full of joy
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- Adult weight 4–7 lbs
- Height 8–10 in
- Lifespan 12–15 years
- Exercise 30 min a day
About the Maltese
The Maltese is a charming little companion with a rich history that dates back to ancient times, where they were cherished by royalty and adored by many for their delightful presence. This toy breed has a sweet temperament, making them an excellent fit for families, especially those with young children. With their affectionate nature, Maltese dogs thrive on love and attention, forming strong bonds with their family members. They are also quite sociable, getting along well with other dogs and even cats, which makes them an adaptable addition to most households.
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Despite their small size, Maltese dogs are not overly demanding in terms of energy; they enjoy gentle playtime and leisurely strolls rather than vigorous exercise. They excel in fitting into apartment living, bringing joy without requiring a significant amount of space. Their grooming needs are unique, as they require professional attention to maintain their stunning coat, but their minimal shedding means you can enjoy the company of this fluffy friend without worrying about fur all over your clothes or furniture.
When it comes to trainability, Maltese are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement. They are alert and have a moderate barking tendency, which can be beneficial for alerting you to visitors but may require some attention for those who prefer quietude. With their loving demeanor and adaptability, a Maltese is not just a pet but a cherished member of the family who brings warmth and companionship to every 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 Cautious
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Territorial Territorial
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Prey drive Low
Family & other pets
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Young children Excellent
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Older children Excellent
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Other dogs Sociable
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Cats Usually fine
Energy & exercise
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Energy Low
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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 Very heavy
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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 Needs shade
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 Low
Living with a Maltese
Temperament & Family Fit
The Maltese is a delightful little companion that thrives in a family environment. Their affectionate nature makes them an excellent choice for families with young children, as they are known for their gentle demeanor. Additionally, they generally get along well with other dogs and even cats, making them a perfect addition to multi-pet households.
Energy & Exercise
With a low energy level, the Maltese is quite content to enjoy leisurely walks around the block or playful indoor activities. They don't require extensive exercise, making them well-suited for apartment living and busy households. Just a short burst of playtime is usually enough to keep this little charmer happy!
Care & Grooming
Though the Maltese has a gorgeous coat that requires regular grooming, it's a small price to pay for such a stunning companion. You'll want to schedule professional grooming sessions to keep their long, silky fur looking its best and to minimize any potential tangles. With a shedding level of 5, they are considered low-shedding, which is great for keeping your living space tidy.
Training Notes
Maltese dogs are generally quite trainable, owing to their eagerness to please and intelligence. Consistent, positive reinforcement will be your best friend when it comes to teaching them commands and tricks. Just be mindful of their barking tendency; early socialization can help manage their vocalizations and ensure they grow up to be well-rounded companions.
Caring for a Maltese
- Grooming
- Professional grooming
- Grooming cost
- High
- Monthly food
- Low
- Outdoor space
- Manages without a yard
- Allergy friendly
- Often suits allergy sufferers
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Maltese a good breed for families with young children?
Absolutely! The Maltese is known for being exceptionally good with young kids, making them a wonderful companion for families. Their gentle nature and affectionate demeanor mean they tend to bond well with children, creating a loving environment.
How much exercise does a Maltese need?
Maltese dogs have a low energy level, which means they don't require extensive exercise. A few short walks or play sessions each day will keep them happy and healthy. They're quite content to snuggle up on the couch with you!
Are Maltese dogs good with other pets?
Yes, Maltese dogs generally get along well with other dogs and can even cohabit nicely with cats. Their friendly temperament and sociable nature make them adaptable companions in multi-pet households.
What can I expect in terms of grooming for a Maltese?
Maltese dogs require professional grooming to keep their beautiful coats looking their best. Regular grooming helps prevent mats and tangles, ensuring your furry friend stays looking lovely and feels comfortable.
Do Maltese dogs bark often?
While Maltese dogs are known for their barking tendency, it's manageable with proper training. They are usually alert and make great watchdogs, but with a bit of positive reinforcement, you can teach them when to be quiet!
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