malteses

Maltese have been lap dogs to royalty for centuries. These dogs have silky hair instead of fur, making them allergy-friendly. They love to be pampered, cuddled and held and typically form strong attachments.

Maltese are gentle and affectionate and are easy to train. They aren't high energy and do well indoors or in small living spaces. They love to be at their owner's side at all times and charm everyone they meet!

The beautiful and charming Maltese is a small companion dog with an average life expectancy of 12-15 years. With proper care and yearly vet exams, most Maltese will live long and healthy lives. While most Maltese will not encounter these health issues it is important to know them, monitor your dog for any physical or behavioral changes, and contact your veterinarian with any concerns. Your vet will most likely recommend running basic health screenings to diagnose or even rule out potential health risks associated with this breed.

 
Health Concerns
• Patellar Luxation
• Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
• Hypoglycemia (puppy)

Minor Health Concerns
• Tear Stains
• Reverse Sneezing
• Collapsed Trachea
• Obesity
• Dental Disease
• Portosystemic Shunt
• White Dog Shaker Syndrome
• Eye Disease

Suggested Screenings
• Cardiac Exam
• Eye Exam
• Knee Exam
• Serum Bile Acid Test

 
Routine Care
• Weight management
• Neuter or Spay
• Regular Dental Exams
• Controlled Exercise

The Maltese is known for its stunning coat of long white hair and rich black point. While their coat is one to admire, it doesn't stay that way on its own. Maltese require regular bathing and professional grooming to keep their coat from tangling or appearing drab. They are also notorious for developing tear stains on the face. Using a dog shampoo meant for white coats and eye wipes will keep their coat shiny.

Maltese don't require rigorous exercise. They're a sweetly playful breed that loves spending time with their person. They're also happy to keep you company while warming your lap.

While adult Maltese love human companionship, they do well on their own for a few hours a day and are generally not too mischievous when not being monitored. However, small dogs like the Maltese need to be carefully monitored when they are puppies as they are prone to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in the first few months of their lives. Limiting playtime and making sure your puppy is eating and drinking enough should help prevent this.