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Maltese

Toy Group 🐕

An ancient Mediterranean toy lapdog with a stunning, pure-white coat that does not possess an undercoat. They are highly cheerful, playful companions who are fearless out of proportion to their tiny physical frames.

Size
Small
4-7 lbs
Lifespan
12-15 yrs
Exercise
Low-Moderate
Grooming
High
Insurance Priority
🟡 Moderate
Temperament
GentlePlayfulAffectionateFearless

Common Health Issues

Understanding breed-specific health risks helps you catch problems early and choose the right preventive care.

⚕️ Dental Disease
⚕️ Patellar Luxation
⚕️ Portosystemic Liver Shunt
⚕️ Progressive Retinal Atrophy
⚕️ Collapsed Trachea

Diet & Nutrition

Small-breed kibble containing premium proteins is highly recommended to protect their fine, silky single coat.

Find the Best Food for Your Maltese

Fresh, human-grade dog food is formulated specifically for your dog's breed, age, and activity level — delivering the exact nutrition they need.

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🛡️ Protect Your Maltese with Pet Insurance

Malteses have a moderate insurance priority. Even healthy breeds benefit from coverage for unexpected emergencies and age-related conditions. Compare plans that cover breed-specific hereditary conditions.

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Maltese Questions

Do Malteses need pet insurance?
While Malteses are generally a healthy breed with a moderate insurance priority, unexpected emergencies can still occur. Even healthy breeds benefit from accident-and-illness coverage, especially in their senior years when conditions like Dental Disease may develop.
What's the best food for a Maltese?
Small-breed kibble containing premium proteins is highly recommended to protect their fine, silky single coat. Fresh, human-grade dog food delivery services are an excellent option — they formulate meals based on your dog's breed, age, weight, and activity level. See our fresh dog food comparison →
How much exercise does a Maltese need?
Malteses have low-moderate exercise requirements. Short daily walks and gentle play are sufficient. This breed is well-suited to apartment living and less active households.
What health problems are Malteses prone to?
The most common health concerns for Malteses include Dental Disease, Patellar Luxation, Portosystemic Liver Shunt. Regular veterinary checkups, appropriate screening tests, and maintaining a healthy weight are the best preventive measures. Responsible breeders will test for breed-specific genetic conditions.
How long do Malteses live?
The typical lifespan for a Maltese is 12-15 years. Proper nutrition, regular exercise, preventive veterinary care, and a loving home environment can help your Maltese live a long, healthy life.

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