History of the Maltese

The Maltese is one of the oldest known toy breeds, with a storied history that dates back over 2,000 years. Its origins trace to the central Mediterranean region, most notably the island of Malta, where it was prized by royalty and aristocrats alike. Ancient Greek and Roman writings mention a small white lap dog beloved by noblewomen, often referred to as the “Canis Melitaeus.”
Throughout history, the Maltese has been associated with wealth, refinement, and elegance. It graced the laps of European royalty, including Queen Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots, and was a frequent subject in Renaissance paintings.
Though selectively bred for appearance over centuries, the Maltese has retained its gentle temperament and affectionate nature, remaining a top choice for those seeking a charming companion.

Popularity of the Maltese

The Maltese remains a popular toy breed globally, beloved for its silky coat, petite size, and devoted personality. It is especially favored by seniors, urban dwellers, and those seeking a small, low-shedding dog with a big heart.
Its hypoallergenic coat and manageable energy levels make it ideal for apartment life, while its expressive eyes and elegant gait keep it looking like a living porcelain doll.

Physical Traits of the Maltese

Delicate yet resilient, the Maltese is a compact toy dog with an air of grace and refinement.
Coat:
•    Long, straight, and silky without undercoat.
•    Hair flows to the ground if left untrimmed.
Color:
•    Pure white is the breed standard.
•    Slight lemon or tan shading on ears is acceptable but uncommon.
Size:
•    Height: 7–9 inches (18–23 cm)
•    Weight: 4–7 lbs (1.8–3.2 kg)
Head & Expression:
•    Round skull, medium-length muzzle, black nose.
•    Large, dark, expressive eyes give it a sweet expression.
Ears:
•    Low-set, heavily feathered, and drop close to the head.
Tail:
•    Gracefully arched over the back, heavily plumed.
Body:
•    Compact and fine-boned with a level topline and elegant carriage.

Behavioral Traits of the Maltese

Don’t let the delicate appearance fool you—the Maltese is full of spirit and spunk.
Loving and Loyal:
•    Devoted to its people, often forming intense bonds.
•    Thrives on closeness and affection.
Gentle and Friendly:
•    Naturally social, usually gets along well with other pets and children (especially when raised with them).
•    Polite with strangers but deeply loyal to its family.
Playful and Alert:
•    Enjoys games and interactive toys.
•    Can be a lively little watchdog—will alert you to visitors.
Smart and Responsive:
•    Highly trainable and eager to please.
•    Loves learning new tricks and thrives on mental stimulation.

Why Choose a Maltese?

The Maltese offers beauty, affection, and portability in one luxurious little package.
Perfect for Small Spaces:
•    Ideal for apartments or condos due to its size and activity level.
Low-Shedding Coat:
•    Does not shed in the traditional sense—great for allergy sufferers.
•    Requires grooming but won’t leave fur on furniture.
Graceful but Tough:
•    Surprisingly hardy for its size—enjoys walks and play just as much as lap time.
Emotionally Intuitive:
•    Picks up on its owner's moods and offers companionship and comfort.

Caring for Your Maltese

Training:
•    Intelligent and quick to learn, especially with positive reinforcement.
•    Early socialization is important to prevent shyness or small-dog syndrome.
Exercise:
•    Daily walks and indoor play are sufficient.
•    Loves short bursts of zoomies around the house.
Grooming:
•    High-maintenance coat if kept long—daily brushing to avoid tangles.
•    Many owners opt for a "puppy cut" for easier care.
•    Clean eyes regularly to avoid tear staining on the white fur.
Nutrition:
•    Needs a balanced small-breed diet—watch portion sizes to avoid weight gain.
•    Dental chews or brushing is recommended to prevent oral issues.
Companionship:
•    Not suited for long hours alone—thrives on human connection.
•    Can develop separation anxiety if left alone frequently.

Health Considerations

The Maltese is generally a healthy and long-lived breed, with a lifespan of 12–15 years. Common health concerns include:
•    Dental disease (very common in toy breeds)
•    Luxating patellas
•    Tear staining (cosmetic)
•    Hypoglycemia in puppies
•    Tracheal collapse in some individuals
Choosing a reputable breeder who screens for genetic health issues is key.

Comparisons to Similar Breeds

Compared to the Bichon Frise, the Maltese has a silkier, straight coat and a more delicate frame. It’s more elegant in movement than a Shih Tzu and generally more outgoing than a Chihuahua. The Maltese stands out for its combination of refinement and affection.

Is the Maltese Right for You?

If you're looking for a small, elegant, affectionate companion that fits easily into your lifestyle and your lap, the Maltese is a classic choice. With the right grooming and attention, this breed can be a dazzling, delightful member of your household.
Not ideal for homes with very young children (due to its fragile size) or where the dog will be left alone frequently.

Ready to Welcome a Maltese?

​​​​​​​United Pet Club offers guidance on grooming, feeding, and training to ensure your Maltese thrives. Whether you're a first-time toy breed owner or a seasoned dog lover, the Maltese offers beauty and loyalty that’s hard to match.