Dog Breed · Malta
Maltese
An ancient white toy breed that has been a lap companion for millennia.
By the WARN Research & Conservation TeamChecked against IUCN Red List & CITES sourcesLast updated
In brief
The Maltese is an ancient toy breed prized for thousands of years as a refined lap companion around the Mediterranean. Weighing under four kilograms, it is gentle, playful and affectionate, with a flowing white coat that, despite its glamour, sheds very little.
Maltese: At a Glance
| Origin | Malta |
|---|---|
| Size | Toy (up to 4 kg) |
| Weight | Up to 4 kg (3-8 lb) |
| Lifespan | 12–16 years |
| Coat | A single, long, silky white coat that hangs straight to the floor when grown out, with no woolly undercoat. The breed sheds minimally, but the fine hair tangles and mats easily, so pets need daily brushing or a shorter 'puppy clip' to stay comfortable. Regular bathing keeps the white coat bright, and the face needs frequent gentle cleaning to limit tear staining. |
| Temperament | Gentle, playful, affectionate |
| Good with | A devoted companion that suits flats, older owners and first-time owners well, thriving on close human contact and disliking long periods alone. Gentle and playful, the Maltese can be a lovely family pet, but its tiny, delicate build means it is better suited to households with calm, older children than boisterous toddlers. It generally gets on with other pets and needs only modest exercise alongside plenty of affection. |
History & Origins
The Maltese is among the oldest of all lap dogs, with small white companion dogs depicted in ancient Greek, Roman and Egyptian art and writings going back over two millennia. Long associated with the island of Malta and Mediterranean trade routes, these dogs were cherished by aristocrats and noblewomen as symbols of status and affection. The breed survived centuries largely unchanged in role, valued purely as a companion rather than a worker. By the nineteenth century it had been formalised into the elegant show and pet breed recognised today.
Maltese Fun Facts
- The Maltese is one of the oldest known toy breeds, with depictions of similar little white dogs dating back over two thousand years.
- Unlike most breeds, the Maltese has a single coat with no undercoat, which contributes to its very low shedding.
- Aristotle and other classical writers referred to small Maltese-type dogs, underlining the breed's ancient pedigree.
- A pure white coat is the hallmark of the breed, and show standards call for the long hair to reach the floor like a silken mantle.
Maltese Common Health Issues
Conditions seen more often in this breed, and how owners and vets help manage them. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice — always speak to your vet.
Patellar luxation
The kneecap slips out of place, causing intermittent skipping or lameness.
Care: Mild cases may need weight control only; severe cases can require surgery.
Dental disease
Plaque and tartar build-up leads to gum infection and tooth loss.
Care: Brush teeth regularly and schedule professional dental cleanings as your vet advises.
Eye conditions
Breed-related eye problems may include cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, or cherry eye.
Care: Regular eye checks and prompt vet attention for redness or cloudiness help preserve vision.
Every dog deserves a chance
Whatever breed steals your heart, millions of dogs around the world have no home at all. A symbolic adoption or a gift to WARN funds humane care for street and community dogs — vaccination, neutering and emergency treatment.
