Maltese

Maltese Grooming Profile

Maltese are tiny, hypoallergenic companions that reach full size by ten months. They are high-maintenance due to their long, silky white coats requiring daily brushing and professional grooming every few weeks, alongside careful dental care and portion-controlled meals of 1/4 to 3/4 cup daily.

Breed Group

Toy Dogs

Country of Origin

Malta

Breed Size

Toy

AKC Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1888

FCI Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1955

Allergy-friendly

Good

10 / 10

Shedding

Minimal

10 / 10

Grooming need

45 mins/week

Low-maintenance

Hard

2 / 10

Size

Toy

1 / 10

Growth timeline

6-10 months

1 / 10

Grooming FAQ

Are Maltese hypoallergenic or allergy-friendly?

Maltese are widely considered hypoallergenic because they have a silky hair-like coat rather than fur, which sheds minimally. This characteristic helps reduce the spread of dander and allergens in your home. While no dog is completely allergy-free, their low-shedding nature makes them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.

Allergy-friendly: 10 / 10

Do Maltese shed?

Maltese dogs are considered minimal shedders because they possess a silky, hair-like coat without a thick undercoat. While they lose very little hair, regular daily brushing is essential to prevent mats and tangles, keeping their beautiful white coats healthy and allergen-free for owners.

Shedding: 10 / 10

How often should you groom a Maltese?

To maintain a Maltese's silky, non-shedding coat, brush daily to prevent painful mats. Professional grooming is typically needed every 4-8 weeks depending on coat length preferences. Additionally, wipe their face daily to manage tear staining and brush their teeth frequently to prevent dental issues.

Are Maltese low-maintenance dogs?

Maltese are not typically considered low-maintenance dogs because of their high-maintenance grooming needs. Their long, silky white coats require daily brushing to prevent painful matting and frequent professional grooming. Additionally, they are prone to tear staining and dental issues that require consistent, daily care and attention.

Low-maintenance: 2 / 10

How big do Maltese get?

Maltese are a tiny toy breed, typically standing 7 to 9 inches tall and weighing under 7 pounds. Their petite size and gentle nature make them ideal companions for apartment living. These elegant, white-coated dogs are the perfect size for snuggling and fit comfortably in almost any home.

Size: 1 / 10

When do Maltese stop growing?

Maltese typically reach their full adult height between 6 and 10 months of age. While height stabilizes by 6-10 months, they often reach full physical maturity and weight by 12-15 months.

Growth timeline: 1 / 10

How much should a Maltese eat?

Adult Maltese typically require 1/4 to 3/4 cup of high-quality dry food daily, split into two meals. Adjust their intake based on age and activity level to maintain their ideal weight.

Feeding amount: 1 / 10

How often should a Maltese puppy eat?

Maltese puppies require frequent, small meals. It is generally recommended to feed them four to six times daily for puppies under 3-4 months to prevent hypoglycemia, transitioning to 3 meals thereafter. The recommendation of 4-6 meals is typically for puppies under 3-4 months to prevent hypoglycemia, transitioning to 3 meals thereafter.

Puppy feeding frequency: 10 / 10

Vet Insights

Maltese are tiny, hypoallergenic companions that reach full size by ten months. They are high-maintenance due to their long, silky white coats requiring daily brushing and professional grooming every few weeks, alongside careful dental care and portion-controlled meals of 1/4 to 3/4 cup daily.

Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
VeterinarianResearcherDog breed specialist
Verified