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
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 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 Kennel 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. Like all toy breeds, they do have some specific health considerations that Australian owners should understand. Reputable ANKC registered breeders will screen for genetic conditions, so always ask to see health clearances.
The most common issue is luxating patella, where the kneecap temporarily dislocates. While not always painful, it can lead to arthritis. Depending on severity, surgery might be recommended to prevent further complications.
Heart conditions, particularly patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), can affect Maltese. This congenital issue prevents a heart vessel from closing after birth. Early surgical intervention usually provides excellent outcomes. White Shaker Dog Syndrome, a neurological condition causing full-body tremors, can also appear in young to middle-aged Maltese. It's often manageable with medication.
Liver shunts, where abnormal blood vessels bypass the liver, are another concern. Most cases can be managed with a special diet and medication, though some require surgery.
Finally, dental health is crucial. Their small mouths are prone to overcrowding and disease, so daily teeth brushing and regular professional cleanings are essential. Additionally, on the East Coast of Australia, regular checks for paralysis ticks are vital, as their long coat can easily hide these dangerous parasites.
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.
Daily brushing is non-negotiable. Use a pin or slicker brush to work through the entire coat, paying special attention to areas that mat easily like behind the ears and under the legs. Start at the skin and work outward to prevent painful tangles. A detangling spray can help with any knots you find.
Bathing should happen every 1-2 weeks using a dog-specific whitening shampoo and conditioner. Their coat shows every speck of dirt, which can be a challenge after a muddy winter walk or a trip to the beach. Many Australian owners opt for a shorter "puppy cut" for easier maintenance. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks, costing around $80-$120 AUD in most cities, keeps them looking neat and significantly reduces daily brushing time.
Eye care is crucial, as Maltese can develop tear staining. Clean the eye area daily with a vet-approved wipe or solution. If tearing is excessive, it's worth a chat with your vet to rule out underlying issues.
Don't forget the basics: trim their nails every few weeks, clean their ears weekly (especially important in humid climates like Brisbane or Sydney), and brush their teeth daily. Consistent oral care is essential for their overall health.
Don't let their tiny size fool you - Maltese are intelligent 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 fun.
These clever dogs learn quickly but have a stubborn streak if they sense inconsistency. The key is making training feel like a game. Use high-value treats (in moderation!), praise, and play as rewards. Keep sessions to 5-10 minutes to hold their attention.
Start with basics like 'sit', 'stay', and loose-leash walking. Maltese excel at trick training and many enjoy dog sports like agility. Australian dog sports clubs often have special classes for toy breeds.
Their exercise needs are low. A couple of 15-20 minute walks daily, plus indoor play, usually suffices. In cities like Perth or Brisbane where summer days can easily top 30°C, it's best to schedule walks for the early morning or late evening to avoid heatstroke.
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 often becomes a barky Maltese, which your neighbours won't appreciate.
Socialisation is crucial from puppyhood. Australian puppy schools are excellent for exposing them to various people and sounds in a controlled way. Just make sure your tiny pup is protected from overly boisterous larger puppies.
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Maltese owner understands this breed was designed to be a constant companion. If you work long hours or travel frequently without your dog, this isn't the breed for you. These dogs thrive with people who want a four-legged shadow following them from room to room.
Maltese suit various Australian lifestyles. They're perfect for retirees who want an affectionate companion for daily walks and cafe visits. Young professionals working from home find them ideal office mates—quiet enough for video calls but always ready for a play break.
Families with older, considerate children (over 8) often love Maltese. However, their delicate size makes them unsuitable for homes with toddlers, who might accidentally injure them. They need a household where everyone knows how to be gentle with a small animal.
Australian apartment dwellers, particularly in Sydney or Melbourne, find Maltese ideal. They don't need large yards and are generally quiet neighbours. It's still wise to check your building's body corporate by-laws, as some have pet restrictions, though a Maltese will almost always be well under any weight limit.
The ideal owner also embraces the grooming commitment. If you don't enjoy daily brushing, be prepared to budget for professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Finally, the best owner is patient with house training and committed to positive reinforcement—these sensitive souls don't respond well to harsh methods.
Interesting facts about the Maltese
America's First Lion Dog
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, a nod to its regal and flowing coat.
Immortalised by Roman Poets
A Roman governor named Publius owned a beloved Maltese named Issa, who was made famous in a poem written by the celebrated poet Martial.
Honoured with Greek Tombs
Ancient Greeks valued their Maltese companions so highly that they erected elaborate tombs for them, a testament to their cherished status in society.
Worshipped in Ancient Egypt
A fine model of a Maltese was discovered in Egypt's Fayum region, suggesting these dogs may have been revered or even worshipped by the 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 from a registered Australian breeder can range from $3,500-$5,000 AUD. You can also find wonderful dogs for a smaller adoption fee through Maltese rescue organisations. Always research breeders thoroughly and avoid unregistered sellers advertising "teacup" varieties, which often have significant 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.