If snowflakes had a personality, they’d be a Maltese — soft, sparkly, and slightly dramatic. This pint-sized aristocrat has been warming laps for over two thousand years, from Roman ladies in togas to modern mums in slippers. Despite their dainty looks, they’re plucky little charmers who’ll happily tell off a Great Dane if it looks at them funny.
Descended from the ancient “Melitae” dogs of the Mediterranean, the Maltese has long been a favourite among the fashionable and the famous. These days, they’ve swapped marble villas for cosy sofas, but their royal attitude remains firmly intact.
Wondering if this fluffy fashionista fits your lifestyle? Take the Which Dog Breed is Best for Me? Quiz to find out before you start colour-coordinating accessories.
Pickles’ Aside: Don’t be fooled by the hair — underneath is a proper little boss.
Great Names for Maltese
Naming a Maltese is like naming a celebrity baby — it has to sparkle.
- Fun: Snowy, Twinkle, Fizz, Sprout
- Classic: Lily, Henry, Daisy, Oliver
- Quirky: Marshmallow, Puffin, Biscuit, Tofu
- Heritage: Melita, Caesar, Bella Donna, Valentino
Still can’t decide? Pop over to the Dog Name Generator for inspiration that’s every bit as extra as your new fluffball.
Exercise
Here’s the thing — the Maltese might look like a dainty lapdog, but underneath that luxurious coat beats the heart of a sprinter. They love to walk, play, and generally run their tiny world with flair.
- Daily needs: 30–60 minutes of walks and play.
- Favourite games: Fetch, chase, or bossing around larger dogs at the park.
- At home: Zoomies in the living room are a regular performance.
Warning: Stubborn Streak!
Maltese have strong opinions about when and how they walk. Rain? Absolutely not.
One owner wrote, “She’ll walk for miles in sunshine but needs carrying if it drizzles.”
Pickles’ Aside: I call it ‘selective motivation.’
Temperament
Think of the Maltese as a walking contradiction: regal yet ridiculous, gentle yet fearless, affectionate but with a dramatic streak worthy of the stage. They’re incredibly people-focused, which makes them devoted companions — and occasional drama queens.
- With family: Utterly devoted and happiest when glued to their favourite person.
- With kids: Lovely with gentle older children; they’re small, so rough play’s a no.
- With strangers: Friendly, but they’ll make sure everyone knows you belong to them first.
An owner confessed, “He’s equal parts cuddlebug and chaos gremlin, depending on the hour.”
Pickles’ Aside: We don’t do ‘average temperament’. We do ‘main character energy’.
Training
Training a Maltese is a bit like managing a toddler with a tiara — you’ll need patience, praise, and maybe a few bribes. They’re intelligent and eager to please, but also know exactly how cute they are.
- Start young: Socialisation and confidence building are key.
- Keep it positive: They’re sensitive souls; firm but kind wins every time.
- Short sessions: Variety keeps them engaged (and less likely to flounce off).
- Toilet training: Can take time — persistence pays off!
For clever tips and gentle guidance, check out the World’s First AI Dog Trainer — perfect for turning that fluff into a well-mannered superstar.
One owner laughed, “He sits beautifully for treats — but only if I clap first. He likes applause.”
Pickles’ Aside: If you’re not clapping for us, are you even trying?
Strangers & Watchdog Potential
Despite their angelic appearance, the Maltese makes a surprisingly good watchdog. They take guarding their home (and their humans) very seriously — all six inches of them.
- Watchdog score: High for size — they’ll alert you to any rustling leaf.
- Guard dog score: Low — they’ll bark bravely, then demand cuddles.
- With guests: Warm once they’ve delivered a dramatic announcement.
One owner said, “He barks at every noise, then looks proud like he’s saved the world.”
Pickles’ Aside: Someone’s got to defend the realm from the postman.
Other Animals
Maltese generally get along with everyone — as long as everyone understands who’s in charge (hint: it’s them).
- Dogs: Excellent companions for similar-sized friends.
- Cats: Usually fine, provided introductions are gentle.
- Small pets: Supervision advised — curiosity can be contagious.
An owner on a forum shared, “Our Maltese ignores the cat unless it’s bedtime, then suddenly they’re best mates.”
Pickles’ Aside: Friendships are all about timing… and blanket-sharing.
Grooming
Ah, the coat — that glorious waterfall of white fluff. It’s the Maltese’s crown jewel, but it does require commitment.
- Brushing: Daily, or tangles will stage a coup.
- Bathing: Every 2–3 weeks to keep the coat bright.
- Eyes: Clean regularly to prevent tear stains.
- Professional grooming: Every 6–8 weeks if you prefer less faff.
Warning: Grooming Commitment!
If you’re not up for regular brushing, consider a “puppy cut” — shorter, simpler, and still adorable.
One owner admitted, “It’s like having a tiny cloud that constantly needs fluffing.”
Pickles’ Aside: Beauty is pain, darling. And also conditioner.
Health
Maltese are generally hardy for their size, often living well into their teens. But like all small breeds, a few health issues can crop up:
- Dental problems: Brush regularly — those tiny teeth need care.
- Patellar luxation: Keep their weight healthy and exercise steady.
- Collapsed trachea: Use a harness instead of a collar.
- Tear staining: Common, but manageable with grooming.
Always go through a responsible breeder who conducts health tests. The Best in Breeder Guide can help you find one that puts welfare first.
One owner said, “She’s never ill, but she coughs dramatically if anyone mentions the vet.”
Cost of Ownership (UK)
Owning a Maltese isn’t outrageous, but their royal grooming routine and delicate diets can add up.
- Puppy Price: £1000–£2000
- Food: £25–£40 per month
- Insurance: £20–£40 monthly
- Routine Vet Care: £150–£250 per year
- Grooming: £40–£60 every couple of months
Yearly Cost Estimates:
- Budget Year: £1000 (DIY grooming, healthy pup)
- Realistic Year: £1800 (insurance, professional grooming)
- Chaotic Year: £2500+ (emergency vet bills, designer jumpers, travel bag upgrades)
An owner joked, “He costs more to maintain than my car — but he’s much cuter in the passenger seat.”
Famous Owners & Moments
The Maltese has long been the dog of choice for the rich and fabulous. From Marilyn Monroe to Queen Elizabeth I, they’ve been seen trotting alongside history’s icons. They’ve also graced movie sets, magazine covers, and red carpets — without a single hair out of place.
Pickles’ Aside: Royalty by birth, influencers by choice.
Myth-Busting
| Myth | Truth |
|---|---|
| Maltese are fragile | They’re small but surprisingly robust and energetic. |
| They’re just lapdogs | They love cuddles, yes — but they’re feisty and playful too. |
| They don’t shed | Technically true — but grooming replaces the hoovering. |
| They’re hard to train | They’re smart — they just like to negotiate. |
FAQs
- Are Maltese good for allergy sufferers? – Yes, they’re low-shedding and often suitable for mild allergies.
- Do they bark much? – Quite a bit — they’re excellent self-appointed announcers.
- Can they live in flats? – Perfectly, as long as they get daily walks.
- Do they need company? – Absolutely. They hate being left alone for long.
Thinking of Bringing One Home?
If you’re after a small dog with a huge personality, endless affection, and a flair for the dramatic, the Maltese might just be your perfect match. They’re loyal, funny, and fancy — and they’ll make sure everyone knows it.
Before your tiny cloud arrives, grab the New Puppy Paw-rent Planner to get organised, and celebrate their arrival with a Custom Cartoon Pet Portrait worthy of a star.
Pickles’ Aside: Warning — your white bedsheets will never be safe again.
Breed Stats
- Origin: Mediterranean (Malta)
- Weight: 3–4 kg
- Height: 20–25 cm
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Best Trait: Loving, loyal companion
- Challenging Trait: Grooming and diva tendencies
Pickles’ Aside: Small dog, massive glamour. Prepare to serve.