Maltese Puppies: 10 Key Facts Before You Buy

The Maltese is one of the oldest and most refined toy breeds in the world, with a history stretching back over two millennia to the ancient Mediterranean. Named for the island of Malta, where the breed was likely developed and from which it was traded throughout the ancient world, the Maltese has been treasured as a companion dog by royalty, nobility, and the aristocracy across many centuries. Ancient Greek and Roman writers documented the breed, and it appears in artwork from Egypt and Greece dating back thousands of years.

The Maltese is a small dog, typically weighing between four and seven pounds, with a strikingly beautiful, long, silky white coat that falls to the ground when kept in full show length. Despite its delicate, elegant appearance, the Maltese has no undercoat, which significantly reduces seasonal shedding and makes it a popular choice for those with mild dog allergies. The coat requires daily brushing and regular bathing to maintain its pristine white appearance and prevent matting, and many owners opt for a shorter "puppy cut" for ease of maintenance. Tear staining beneath the eyes is a common cosmetic concern in the breed.

Temperamentally, Maltese are gentle, playful, and intensely devoted to their owners, embodying the classic qualities of a companion breed developed over centuries of close human association. They are surprisingly bold and resilient for their size, and their alert nature makes them effective watchdogs despite their diminutive stature. Common health concerns include dental disease due to their small mouths, patellar luxation, heart disease, and portosystemic liver shunt. Maltese are long-lived dogs, commonly reaching 12 to 15 years, making the commitment to their care a lasting one that rewards patient, devoted owners with decades of loyal companionship.