Maltese dog breed photo
Dog BreedPurebredCompanion Dogs

Maltese

5.0 (3 reviews)Italy#33
Written by
Fact-checked based on scientific data
5 min read

Key Takeaways

  • Small breed belonging to the Companion Dogs group, known for typical breed characteristics.
  • Moderate energy level; enjoys daily walks and playtime but isn't hyperactive.
  • Average trainability; responds well to consistent, positive reinforcement methods.
  • Low-maintenance coat with minimal shedding; suitable for allergy sufferers.

Quick Facts

Group

Companion Dogs

Size

Small

Life Span

14-18 years

Popularity

#33

Puppy Price

$600-$800

Energy Level

Moderate

Shedding Level

Minimal

Trainability

Average

Common Names & Aliases

Maltese lion dogMaltese Dog
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⚖️Maltese Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • Allergy Friendliness:Hypoallergenic breed, ideal for allergy sufferers

  • Shedding Level:Minimal shedding, easy to maintain

  • Affection Level:Exceptionally devoted and affectionate

  • Lifestyle Adaptability:Exceptionally adaptable, thrives anywhere

  • Energy Rating:Moderate energy, balanced lifestyle

  • Child Compatibility:Excellent with children, patient and gentle

  • Dog Friendly:Exceptionally social, thrives in multi-dog homes

  • Activity Requirement / Exercise Need:Minimal exercise needs, perfect for apartments

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Price and Availability

Price Range

$600-$800

If you choose to purchase the Maltese, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders' sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Maltese for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Maltese gets to a happy place.

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Availability

5/5

Availability

Very frequent: The Maltese is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

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History

The origins of this small, refined, joyful, and long-haired dog can be traced back over at least 28 centuries. It is possible that the Maltese are the oldest European toy breed. There are many theories of the exact origin, but none of them is certain.

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Recognition

Classifications

AKC Classification
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888 as a Toy breed.
FCI Classification
Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Bichons and related breeds section.

This breed is recognized by the following organizations:

American Kennel Club
Fédération Cynologique Internationale
American Canine Registry
America's Pet Registry
Australian National Kennel Council
Canadian Kennel Club
Continental Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Kennel Club of Great Britain
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
North American Purebred Registry
United Kennel Club
American Canine Association
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Frequently Asked Questions

The Maltese is a great choice for allergy sufferers due to its low-shedding coat.

The Maltese needs moderate grooming with regular brushing and occasional professional care.

The Maltese barely sheds at all, perfect for those seeking a low-maintenance coat.

The Maltese is moderately energetic and needs regular daily exercise to stay healthy and happy, suitable for most lifestyles.

The Maltese is moderately trainable with consistent training and patience, responding well to positive reinforcement methods.

The Maltese is excellent with children, patient and gentle, making it a perfect family companion.

The Maltese is exceptionally social with all dogs and thrives in multi-dog environments.

The Maltese needs very little exercise, perfect for sedentary lifestyles.

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Maltese Comments, Reviews and Questions

Poppy

2022-02-03

cute

Mikaela

2020-12-14

No comment provided.

Benji

2020-11-07

Had my boy since he was 3 months old and now he's 7 years old. I've had a lot of dogs growing up and my little maltese is the best dog in the world. Great companion. He adores everyone and everyone adores him. 10/10 best doggo.

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