A Maltese is a tiny, delicate and fearless breed of dog.
They are known to be the most luxurious and sophisticated breed ever since BC.
They definitely would make you fall on your knees with their innate charm, adorable size, and floor-length coat.
They are the most recommended dog breed for families living an apartment-sized lifestyle, because of their adorably compact size.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts
Average Height: 7 – 9 inches
Average Weight: Under 7 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
Dog Group: Toy Group
Colors: White
At A Glance
Size (1/5)
A Maltese dog is a compact and affectionate canine, they stand 7 to 9 inches in height and weight under 7 pounds, which is why they’re also delicate.
Affection Level (5/5)
Maltese were known as ‘comforters’ ever since ancient times and people believed they were capable of curing diseases.
They are highly affectionate and fearless, make great companions with your children and other family members too.
Apartment Friendly (5/5)
Maltese are a solid fit for couples and families living in apartments, who are looking to bring home a pet.
Maltese dog shed negligibly low and are also hypoallergenic in nature, best suited for people allergic to pets.
Cold Weather Tolerability (2/5)
Even though they have a long coat, they don’t have an undercoat and cold weathers are a big challenge for them.
They don’t do pretty well in extreme weather conditions and are recommended to wear a protective jacket for chilly walks outdoors.
Hot Weather Tolerability (3/5)
A Maltese dog doesn’t face many challenges during extreme weathers.
But still, they must be kept hydrated and indoors during summers.
Barking Tendencies (2/5)
Maltese have a very low tendency to bark or howl.
They are the calmest and composed dogs and would comfort you more than annoy you.
Cat-Friendly (2/5)
Even though they might be of the size of a cat, they are bigger in their mind and attitude.
They are terriers and would show unfriendly behavior with cats and other smaller animals as a natural instinct.
Dog-Friendly (4/5)
Maltese are generally friendly, and would not show aggressive behavior with other dogs.
Exercise Needs (2/5)
A typical Maltese dog is more of a companion dog than a sporty one and doesn’t require rigorous exercise.
Grooming Needs (2/5)
Their coats are long and silky, which makes them easy to groom and look appealing.
Playfulness (4/5)
Maltese are playful with people they’re close to, they would constantly seek attention and would want to indulge in playful activities.
Trainability (4/5)
A Maltese dog temperament is well regarded and is what enables them to learn things quickly.
Intelligence (4/5)
Typically a Maltese is a very intelligent breed and would learn things quickly.
Mouthiness (3/5)
The Maltese dog breed has a low potential to get involved in extensive mouthy behavior.
Maltese puppies do have a tendency to chew but get them habituated to chew toys and would never build the habit to chew on human fingers.
Price Group (3/5)
Maltese dogs don’t cost too high and fall in the mediocre price range of $120 – $400 USD as the buying price.
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I like that you mentioned that Maltese puppies are quite good with children and would tend to treat them as part of the pack. I’m planning to adopt one from a breeder soon because I think it would be a good early life lesson for my toddler to be very kind to any living thing. Having a family pet would surely be the best and most fun way of teaching that.
Hi Alice!
Thanks for responding and sharing your thoughts, it helps us work better and understand that we are making a difference.
Maltese puppies will not only imbibe a sense of responsibility in your kids but also make them lovable as he/she will be happy, thanks to the dog!
When you are contacting breeders beware of unscrupulous breeding, its good to go through AKC guidelines once.
I wish you loads of happiness!