Maltese Dog Breed Information - All You Need to Know

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Meet the Maltese !

Graceful, Intelligent, and Affectionate

The Maltese, with its flowing white coat and spirited personality, has been a cherished companion for centuries. Known for their affectionate nature and adaptability, Maltese dogs make excellent companions for families and individuals alike.

At a Glance

Size

Toy

Shedding

Minimal

Life Expectancy

12–15 years

Coat Type

Long, silky, single-layered

Temperament

Affectionate, playful, alert

Weight

Under 7 pounds
(preferred: 4–6 pounds)

Height

7–9 inches at
the shoulder

Suitable For

Families, singles, apartment
living

Nutrition

Grooming

Training

Puppy Care

Lifestyle

Vet Care

Maltese Nutrition

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What to Look For

High-quality animal proteins for muscle maintenance
Balanced fats for energy
Omega fatty acids for skin and coat health
Fiber-rich carbohydrates for digestion
Avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity

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Feeding Guidelines

Age	Daily Quantity	Meals per Day	Feeding Tips
Puppy (2–6 months)	¼–½ cup dry food	3–4	Use toy-breed puppy formula; monitor weight gain
Puppy (6–12 months)	½–¾ cup dry food	2–3	Transition gradually to adult food
Adult (1–7 years)	½–1 cup dry food	2	Maintain a balanced diet to prevent obesity
Senior (7+ years)	½–¾ cup dry food	2	Consider senior formulas with joint support

Note: Provide fresh water at all times and consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding recommendations.

Maltese Grooming

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Coat Maintenance

Brush daily to prevent tangles and mats
Professional grooming every 4–6 weeks
Regularly trim hair around eyes and paws

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Routine Hygiene

Trim nails every 3–4 weeks
Clean ears weekly to prevent infections
Brush teeth daily to maintain oral health
Bathe every 3–4 weeks or as needed

Training & Exercise

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Why Training Matters

Encourages good behavior and obedience
Provides mental stimulation to prevent boredom
Strengthens the bond between dog and owner

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Essentials to Include

Start training and socialization early
Use positive reinforcement techniques
Teach basic commands: sit, stay, come, heel
Incorporate agility and obedience exercises

Puppy Care – Bringing a Maltese Home

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Puppy Prep

Puppy-proof your home to prevent accidents
Provide a safe, comfortable space for rest and sleep
Introduce a consistent routine for feeding, potty breaks, and playtime

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Early Care Checklist

Schedule initial vet visits and vaccinations
Begin deworming and flea/tick prevention as advised
Start socialization with people, pets, and various environments
Begin basic training and establish household rules

Maltese Lifestyle

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Daily Life Must-Haves

Daily walks and playtime to expend energy
Mental stimulation: puzzle toys, training sessions
Social interaction: they enjoy being part of family activities

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Ideal Living Setup

Suitable for apartment living with sufficient exercise
Prefer moderate climates; sensitive to extreme temperatures
Not suited for homes where they are left alone for extended periods

Accessories & Essentials

Comfortable bed in a quiet area for rest
Interactive toys to prevent boredom
Secure harness and leash for walks

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Vet Care for Maltese Health

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Key Health Practices

Annual veterinary checkups
Regular dental cleanings
Preventative flea, tick, and worm treatments

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Breed-Prone Conditions

Dental issues due to small mouth size
Luxating patella (kneecap dislocation)
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Epilepsy
Hypoglycemia in puppies

Vet Tips

Monitor weight and adjust diet and exercise accordingly
Keep ears clean and dry to prevent infections
Watch for signs of joint discomfort and consult your vet

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Fun Trivia: Did You Know?

The Maltese has been a cherished companion for over two millennia, favored by Roman aristocrats and even mentioned by Aristotle.
Despite their small size, Maltese dogs are known for their fearless nature and make excellent watchdogs.
The breed's hypoallergenic coat makes them suitable for people with allergies.
Maltese dogs have been featured in various artworks and literature throughout history, symbolizing elegance and refinement.