Maltese

— Gentle. Playful. Devoted.

One of the oldest toy breeds in Europe, the Maltese has been a favored lapdog of nobility for over two thousand years, prized for its flowing white coat and gentle, devoted temperament. Small and delicate, Maltese dogs form intensely close bonds with their people and thrive on companionship.

Malta (Mediterranean)Origin

Toy GroupBreed Group

12 - 15 YearsLife Expectancy

QUICK OVERVIEW

Apartment or small-space living

Owners committed to daily grooming

Companionship-focused households

Owners wanting minimal grooming

About the Maltese

Last updated: August 12, 2026

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Key Facts

One of the oldest documented toy breeds, referenced in ancient Greek and Roman writings

Known for a pure white, floor-length silky coat

Historically favored by aristocracy and royalty across Mediterranean and European history

Forms exceptionally close bonds with their family, often described as devoted companions

Is Maltese Right for You?

Apartment or small-space living

Owners committed to daily grooming

Companionship-focused households

Owners wanting minimal grooming

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The Maltese has a long, silky, single coat coat in white, with low shedding year-round.

Maltese

Personality

GentleRarely aggressive, Maltese are known for a sweet, easygoing disposition well suited to calm households.

PlayfulEnjoys interactive play and retains a lively, curious energy despite their small size.

DevotedForms very close bonds with their family, often preferring to be near their person at all times.

AlertNaturally watchful, making them effective (if small) watchdogs who readily announce visitors.

Care & Needs

GroomingDaily brushing is essential to prevent matting in their long, silky coat; many owners opt for a shorter "puppy cut" to reduce maintenance.

Eye CareProne to tear staining given their coat color and facial structure, requiring regular gentle cleaning around the eyes.

Dental CareToy breeds are especially prone to dental crowding and periodontal disease — regular brushing and vet checks matter.

HandlingTheir small, delicate frame is prone to injury from falls or rough handling, requiring gentle interaction and supervision with kids.

Did You Know?

The Maltese is one of the oldest toy dog breeds in the world, with artistic and written references dating back over 2,000 years to ancient Greek pottery and Roman literature.

Malteses have been serving humans in many important roles including: Royal Companions and Lap Dogs .

Health & Common Issues

Dental DiseaseSmall jaw structure makes Maltese highly prone to overcrowded teeth and periodontal disease without regular dental care.

Patellar LuxationA common small-breed joint issue where the kneecap slips out of place, ranging from mild to requiring surgical correction.

White Shaker SyndromeA neurological condition causing tremors, documented more often in white-coated small breeds including the Maltese.

Training & Exercise

Use gentle, positive reinforcement — Maltese are eager to please but can be sensitive to harsh correction.
Start grooming routines early, since daily brushing will be a lifelong necessity and early habituation makes it far easier.
Socialize widely to build confidence, since overly anxious behavior can develop in under-socialized Maltese.
Practice gradual alone-time conditioning from puppyhood, given their strong tendency to bond closely and struggle with separation.

History & Origin

Ancient Referenced in ancient Greek and Roman writing as a favored companion breed, with origins likely tracing to the Mediterranean island of Malta or earlier Mediterranean trade routes.

Middle Ages Remained a popular companion breed among European nobility throughout the medieval period.

1888 Officially recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Today One of the most popular toy breeds worldwide, prized for its elegant white coat and devoted temperament.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Maltese good with children?

They can be, but their small, delicate size means supervision and teaching gentle handling matter more than with sturdier breeds — they're generally a better fit for families with older, calmer children.

Do Maltese dogs shed?

Very little — their silky coat sheds minimally, which is part of why the breed is often chosen by owners with mild allergies, though daily grooming is still necessary to prevent matting.

Are Maltese good apartment dogs?

Yes — their small size and moderate exercise needs make them well suited to apartment living, provided they get regular companionship and interaction.