Maltese
The Good
- Friendly and sociable
- Devoted to their owner
- Easy to train
- Minimal shedding and odour
- Long-lived among dog breeds
The Real
- White coat shows dirt easily
- Can be vocal with barking
- Doesn't like being alone
- Demanding with food choices
- Requires daily brushing
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Maltese is a tiny aristocrat wrapped in a flowing white silk coat that's been charming hearts for over 2,800 years. These pocket-sized companions weigh less than 3.2 kilos but pack enormous personality into their compact frames. Originally bred as companions for Mediterranean nobility, they've perfected the art of being the perfect lapdog while maintaining surprising athleticism and intelligence.
What makes Maltese special isn't just their stunning appearance - it's their remarkable ability to form deep bonds with their families. They're naturally affectionate dogs who genuinely want to be involved in every aspect of your life. Despite their delicate appearance, they're surprisingly hardy and adaptable, making them excellent companions for Australian families living in apartments or houses with yards.
Their hypoallergenic coat and minimal shedding make them popular choices for families with allergies, though no dog is completely allergen-free. These intelligent little dogs excel at reading human emotions and adjusting their behaviour accordingly - they can be playful when you want to have fun or calm and comforting when you need a snuggle.
In Australian homes, Maltese adapt beautifully to our varied lifestyle, whether you're in a Sydney high-rise or a Perth suburb. They're equally happy accompanying you to weekend markets or settling in for a Netflix session. Just remember, this breed was literally bred to be your constant companion, so they're not suited to families who are away from home for long periods.
History
History
The Maltese story begins in the ancient Mediterranean, where these tiny white dogs were already stealing hearts over 3,500 years ago. Archaeological evidence shows similar dogs appearing in Greek and Roman art, with the breed's name likely derived from the Semitic word "malat," meaning refuge - fitting for dogs found in various Mediterranean port cities.
Malta, the island nation 60 miles south of Sicily, became the breed's spiritual home, though their exact origins remain beautifully mysterious. What we do know is that these dogs were the ultimate status symbol among ancient nobility. Roman governor Publius had a beloved Maltese named Issa, immortalised in poetry by Martial. Even Queen Cleopatra reportedly owned these enchanting companions.
Throughout the Middle Ages, Maltese remained symbols of wealth and refinement. European aristocracy, including Russia's Catherine the Great, treasured these dogs as living jewels. Ladies would carry them in specially designed baskets to social events, and their small size made them perfect for palace life.
The breed's modern recognition began in 1877 at the Westminster Dog Club show in New York, where the first Maltese was exhibited as a "Maltese Lion Dog." The American Kennel Club registered the breed in 1888, and the International Canine Federation officially recognised them in 1955.
In Australia, Maltese have found their perfect match in our lifestyle. They've adapted beautifully to everything from Melbourne's cooler climate to Darwin's tropical conditions, maintaining their aristocratic bearing while becoming beloved family members across the continent. Today's Maltese carry the same genes as those ancient Mediterranean companions, proving that some things never go out of style.
Traits & Characteristics
Maltese characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Maltese are generally healthy little dogs with lifespans of 12-15 years, though some have been known to reach nearly 20 with excellent care. Like all toy breeds, they do have some specific health considerations that Australian owners should understand.
The most common issue is luxating patella, where the kneecap pops in and out of place. While not typically painful, it can lead to other knee problems and arthritis over time. Responsible breeders screen for this condition, and depending on severity, surgery might be recommended to prevent further complications.
Heart conditions, particularly patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), can affect Maltese. This congenital condition prevents a heart vessel from closing properly after birth, forcing the heart to work harder. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, exercise intolerance, and stunted growth. Early surgical intervention usually provides excellent outcomes.
Liver issues, including congenital liver shunts, require screening through blood tests. These abnormal blood vessels bypass the liver's filtering function, potentially causing neurological symptoms. Most cases can be managed with diet and medication, though some require surgery.
Dental health is crucial for Maltese, as toy breeds are particularly prone to periodontal disease. Daily teeth brushing and regular professional cleanings are essential to prevent painful gum disease and protect their organs from bacterial damage.
Australian owners should be aware that young Maltese puppies can develop hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) if they don't eat regularly. This is easily prevented by feeding small, frequent meals until they're about four months old.
Regular vet check-ups, proper dental care, and maintaining a healthy weight will help your Maltese live their longest, healthiest life in the Australian climate.
Feeding a Maltese requires attention to detail, as these little gourmets can be quite particular about their meals. Their tiny size means every calorie counts, and they're prone to weight gain that can stress their delicate joints and organs.
Quality is paramount when choosing food for your Maltese. Whether you select premium commercial food or home-prepared meals (with veterinary guidance), ensure it meets high nutritional standards. Many Australian pet stores stock breed-specific formulas designed for toy dogs, which can be excellent options when recommended by your vet.
Young Maltese puppies need special care to prevent hypoglycemia. Feed them small meals three to four times daily until they're about four months old, then transition to two or three meals daily for adults. This frequent feeding schedule helps maintain stable blood sugar levels in their tiny bodies.
Portion control is critical - these dogs can quickly become overweight, which puts stress on their heart and joints. Follow feeding guidelines on your chosen food packaging, but remember these are starting points. Your vet can help fine-tune portions based on your dog's activity level, age, and body condition.
For Maltese with joint issues like luxating patella, glucosamine and chondroitin supplements may be beneficial. Omega-3 supplements can support joint health while keeping their famous coat silky and lustrous. Always consult your vet before adding supplements to your dog's diet.
Australian owners should be mindful that our warm climate can affect appetite. Some Maltese eat less during hot summer days, which is normal. Ensure fresh water is always available, especially during Perth's scorching summers or Brisbane's humid months.
Avoid feeding from your table - their sensitive digestive systems don't handle rich, fatty, or spicy foods well. Stick to high-quality dog food and appropriate treats to keep your Maltese healthy and happy.
The Maltese's stunning floor-length white coat is their crowning glory, but it comes with serious grooming commitments. Think of it as having a tiny supermodel who needs daily styling - beautiful results require consistent effort.
Daily brushing is non-negotiable. Use a high-quality pin brush or slicker brush to work through the entire coat, paying special attention to areas that mat easily like behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail. Start at the skin and work outward to prevent painful tangles. If you find mats, work them out gently with your fingers or a detangling spray rather than cutting them out.
Bathing should happen every 7-10 days using dog-specific shampoo and conditioner. The white coat shows every speck of dirt, which is particularly challenging during Australia's muddy winter months or after beach visits. Quality grooming products designed for white coats can help maintain that pristine appearance.
Many Australian Maltese owners invest in waterproof coats for rainy Melbourne days or muddy bush walks. This prevents the coat from getting filthy and reduces bathing frequency.
If you're not planning to show your Maltese, consider a shorter "puppy cut" - it's adorable and much easier to maintain. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks keeps them looking neat and reduces your daily brushing time.
Eye care is crucial as Maltese can develop tear staining, creating dark tracks down their white faces. Clean the eye area daily with a vet-approved tear stain remover. Excessive tearing might indicate underlying issues, so consult your vet if it worsens.
Don't forget the basics: trim nails regularly, clean ears weekly (especially important in humid Queensland conditions), and brush teeth daily. Their small mouths are prone to dental issues, so consistent oral care is essential for their overall health.
Don't let their tiny size fool you - Maltese are intelligent, athletic little dogs who thrive on mental stimulation and gentle exercise. They're surprisingly trainable when you use positive reinforcement methods and keep sessions short and engaging.
These clever dogs learn quickly but can be a bit stubborn if they sense inconsistency. The key is making training feel like a game rather than work. Use high-value treats (but watch those calories!), praise, and play as rewards. Keep sessions to 5-10 minutes to match their attention span, but train multiple times throughout the day.
Start with basics like sit, stay, come, and loose-leash walking. Maltese excel at trick training and many enjoy dog sports like agility - their small size makes them surprisingly nimble competitors. Australian dog sports clubs often have special classes for toy breeds.
Exercise needs are moderate but important. A couple of 15-20 minute walks daily, plus indoor play, usually suffices. They love exploring Australian neighbourhoods, visiting dog-friendly cafes, or accompanying you to weekend markets. Their small legs mean they tire more quickly than larger dogs, but they recover fast too.
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing balls, and teaching new tricks keep their bright minds occupied. A bored Maltese can become a barky Maltese, which your neighbours won't appreciate.
Socialisation is crucial from puppyhood. Expose them to various people, sounds, and situations while they're young. Australian puppy schools are excellent for this, though be mindful that your tiny pup needs protection from overly enthusiastic larger puppies.
Address separation anxiety early by teaching them to be comfortable alone for short periods. This is essential for Australian families where everyone works or travels regularly.
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Maltese owner understands that this breed was literally designed to be your constant companion. If you work long hours away from home or travel frequently without your dog, this probably isn't the breed for you. These dogs thrive with people who genuinely want a four-legged shadow who'll follow them from room to room.
Maltese suit various Australian lifestyles beautifully. They're perfect for retirees who want an affectionate companion for daily walks around the neighbourhood or visits to dog-friendly cafes. Young professionals working from home find them ideal office companions - quiet enough for video calls but always ready for a play break.
Families with older children (over 8) often love Maltese, as they're gentle and patient. However, families with toddlers need to be cautious - these tiny dogs can be injured by rough play or accidental drops. They're better suited to households where everyone understands how to interact gently with small animals.
Australian apartment dwellers, particularly in Sydney or Melbourne, find Maltese ideal urban companions. They don't need huge yards and are generally quiet neighbours when properly trained. Their minimal shedding is perfect for neat-freak households.
The ideal owner also embraces the grooming commitment. If you love the ritual of daily brushing and regular baths, you'll enjoy maintaining their beautiful coat. If grooming feels like a chore, consider whether you're willing to budget for professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.
Maltese owners need patience for house training, as small bladders mean more frequent toilet breaks initially. They also need commitment to positive training methods - these sensitive souls don't respond well to harsh corrections.
Most importantly, the best Maltese owner genuinely enjoys having a devoted companion who wants to share every moment of life with them.
Interesting facts about the Maltese
Interesting Fact
The first Maltese exhibited in the US was shown as a "Maltese Lion Dog" at the Westminster Kennel Club's inaugural dog show in 1877
Interesting Fact
Ancient Roman governor Publius had a beloved Maltese named Issa, immortalised in poetry by the famous poet Martial
Interesting Fact
Greeks erected elaborate tombs for their cherished Maltese, showing how valued these dogs were in ancient times
Interesting Fact
A fine model of a Maltese was discovered in Egypt's Fayum region, suggesting these dogs may have been worshipped by ancient Egyptians
FAQ
All dogs shed, but Maltese shed very minimally. Because of their low-shedding coat, they can be a good fit for some people with dog allergies, though no dog is completely allergen-free. Spend time with the breed first to see how your allergies react before bringing one home.
Yes, Maltese are very affectionate and loving toward their families. They do well with children who know how to interact properly with small animals, but they're best suited for families with older kids who are always gentle. Their tiny size makes them vulnerable to accidental injury from rough play.
The typical Maltese lifespan is 12-15 years, with some living even longer with excellent care. They're generally healthy dogs when bred responsibly and given proper veterinary care throughout their lives.
Depending on the breeder's experience and the puppy's pedigree, Maltese can range from $800-$3,000 in Australia. You can also find more affordable dogs through Maltese rescue organisations. Always research breeders thoroughly and avoid "teacup" varieties, which often have health issues.
Absolutely! Maltese are excellent apartment dogs due to their small size and moderate exercise needs. They're generally quiet when properly trained and don't require large yards. Daily walks and indoor play usually meet their exercise requirements perfectly.
Daily brushing is essential to prevent matting, and they need baths every 7-10 days. If you keep their coat long, expect to spend 15-20 minutes daily on grooming. Many Australian owners opt for shorter "puppy cuts" and visit professional groomers every 6-8 weeks for easier maintenance.
Maltese adapt well to Australia's varied climates but need some consideration. They handle warm weather reasonably well but may need cooling mats during extreme heat. In cooler cities like Melbourne or Canberra, they'll need warm coats for winter walks. Their white coat also requires sun protection during peak UV hours.