The Maltese is a small dog breed that’s best known for their luxurious, floor-length white coat and playful personality.
In this comprehensive breed guide, we've compiled everything you need to know about the Maltese, including breed characteristics, health considerations, care requirements, training tips, grooming needs, and all essential supplies. We've evaluated each product based on quality, safety, appropriateness for the breed, ease of use, and value. All products reviewed here include direct Amazon purchase links with our affiliate tag.
Quick Answer: Essential Maltese Supplies
If you're in a hurry, here are the must-have items for a Maltese:
- Food: Quality Dog Food - AAFCO-compliant, complete and balanced nutrition
- Food Bowl: Stainless Steel Bowl - Durable, easy to clean, appropriate size
- Grooming Tools: Grooming Tools - Brushes, combs, nail clippers
- Dog Bed: Comfortable Dog Bed - Supportive, appropriate size
- Toys: Interactive Dog Toys - Mental stimulation, exercise
- Leash and Collar: Leash and Collar Set - Safe, secure, comfortable
About Malteses
The Maltese is a small dog breed that’s best known for their luxurious, floor-length white coat and playful personality.
Breed Characteristics
The Maltese is known for its unique personality and characteristics. Each breed has specific traits that make them special, and understanding these characteristics is essential for providing proper care and training.
While every pup is an individual, the typical Maltese dog’s temperament is affectionate and friendly.
Maltese Health Issues
Common Health Consideration
The average Maltese lifespan is 12–15 years. They are a generally healthy breed with few health concerns, but there are a few inherited conditions pet parents need to be aware of for health management.
Common Health Consideration
Maltese can develop luxating patellas, an inherited condition where one or both of the kneecaps pop in and out of place.
Common Health Consideration
Although patellar luxation is not generally considered a painful condition, it may cause the dog to favor one leg and can predispose them to other knee injuries (such as a cranial cruciate ligament tear) and arthritis. Depending on the severity of the luxating patella, surgery may be recommended to
While individual dogs may vary, it's important to be aware of potential health issues that can affect the Maltese. Regular veterinary care, proper nutrition, and preventive measures can help keep your dog healthy throughout their life.
Product Comparison Table
| Product | Key Features | Best For | Size/Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality Dog Food | AAFCO-compliant, complete and balanced nutrition | Daily nutrition, health maintenance | Appropriate for breed size |
| Food Bowl | Stainless steel, durable, easy to clean | Feeding, water | Appropriate size for breed |
| Grooming Tools | Brushes, combs, nail clippers | Grooming, coat maintenance | Appropriate for coat type |
| Dog Bed | Comfortable, supportive, washable | Rest, sleep, comfort | Appropriate size for breed |
What To Feed a Maltese
Nutrition Basics
Selecting the best diet for a Maltese is based on the needs of the individual dog.
Key Features: AAFCO-compliant, complete and balanced, appropriate for breed size
How Much Should You Feed a Maltese?
The recommended caloric intake for Malteses varies between individuals—it all comes down to their size, metabolism, neuter/spay status, and activity level. Additionally, the caloric content for each food may vary drastically from one brand to the next.
The best way to determine how much to feed a Maltese is to talk with your veterinarian. They can calculate how much you should feed your dog. Additionally, the feeding guide labels on your dog food provide valuable information about portions.
Behavior and Training Tips for the Maltese
Maltese Personality and Temperament
While every pup is an individual, the typical Maltese dog’s temperament is affectionate and friendly.
Maltese Training
Training is most successful when based on positive reinforcement with lots of treats for good behavior. Early socialization and consistent training are key to raising a well-behaved Maltese.
Key Features: Positive reinforcement, lots of treats, early socialization, consistent training
View Training Treats on Amazon
Maltese Grooming Guide
Skin Care
Regular bathing using dog shampoo helps keep your Maltese's skin healthy. If you notice any changes in your dog's skin, such as redness or flakiness, talk to your veterinarian.
Key Features: Regular bathing, dog shampoo, monitor skin health
Coat Care
Maltese are known for their long and silky white coat that requires daily care to prevent mats and tangles. Their fur should be brushed or combed every day, and regular bathing will keep their skin and coat healthy and clean.
Key Features: Regular brushing, prevent matting, coat maintenance
Considerations for Pet Parents
Family Compatibility
The Maltese can make a great family pet when properly socialized and trained. Understanding the breed's needs and characteristics is essential for a successful relationship.
Exercise Needs
Final Verdict
The Maltese is a small dog breed that’s best known for their luxurious, floor-length white coat and playful personality.
With proper care including a balanced diet (AAFCO-compliant food), regular grooming, appropriate exercise, early socialization and training, and regular veterinary care, your Maltese can live a healthy and happy life.
Quality supplies are an investment in your Maltese's long-term health and happiness. Choose products that are safe, appropriate for the breed, and designed to meet their specific needs. With proper care and attention, your Maltese will be a wonderful companion for many years to come.
Use this breed guide as a reference when considering or caring for a Maltese, and don't hesitate to consult with your veterinarian if you have questions about your dog's specific needs or notice any signs of health issues.