Temperament
Maltese are affectionate, playful and gentle. They love being close to their owners and can be alert watchdogs. They're fragile, so they do best with adults or older children.
Exercise and energy
Low: short walks and indoor play.
Grooming
The silky coat doesn't shed much but needs daily brushing if kept long; most owners choose a short trim. Wipe the eyes daily to reduce tear staining, and brush teeth daily.
Training
Smart and responsive to positive training, but house-training can be slow.
Health
Watch for dental disease, kneecap problems, tracheal collapse, liver shunts and low blood sugar in puppies.
Is the Maltese right for you?
✅ A great match if you…
- Live in an apartment
- Want a small, low-shedding companion
- Are a senior or home a lot
- Enjoy grooming
⛔ Think twice if you…
- Have toddlers
- Need a quiet dog
- Don't want daily grooming and tooth brushing
- Are away for long hours
Breed traits are general tendencies, not guarantees. Health information is a summary of issues commonly reported in the breed — ask breeders for health-testing results and discuss screening with your veterinarian. Weights and heights are typical adult ranges and vary by line and sex.
