Maltese

Toy (AKC:1888)

Companion Breed & Show Breed (UKC)

Active

Docile

Easygoing

Gentle

Intelligent

Playful

Responsive

Sweet-tempered

Male: 8-10 inches (21-25 cm)

Female: 8-9 inches (20-23 cm)

Average $1500 - $2500 USD

The Maltese are one of the most expensive breeds of small dog breeds. Usually, the average cost of purchasing a pet quality puppy from a reputable breeder is about $1,500 to $2,500. However, for a Maltese puppy with top breed lines and a superior pedigree, you may need to pay between $3,000 and $5,000.

5 stars

5 stars

The Maltese is a good dog for apartment life. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

5 stars

Frequent

5 stars

4 stars

Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them.

5 stars

1 stars

The Maltese does not require a great amount of exercise. It can have its needs met by indoor play and activities, and enjoys playing chase.

3 stars

Moderate Maintenance: Beyond regular weekly grooming the occasional bath will keep them clean and looking their best. Grooming can be a wonderful bonding experience for you and your pet. Their strong fast-growing nails should be trimmed regularly with a nail clipper or grinder to avoid overgrowth, splitting and cracking. Their ears should be checked regularly to avoid a buildup of wax and debris which can result in an infection. Teeth should be brushed regularly.

3 stars

Hypoallergenic: Yes

4 stars

Ranking: #59 Full Ranking ListThey are ranked 59th out of 79 in Stanley Coren's The Intelligence of Dogs which indexes obedience and the ability of a dog breed to follow commands, with very light focus on skills seen outside of working breeds, such as emotional intelligence.

3 stars

1 stars

Minimal Shedding: This dog will shed a negligible amount. Recommended for owners who do not want to deal with dog hair in their cars and homes.

5 stars

2 stars

Difficult Training: Encouragement rather than harsh words should always be used when training the Maltese. They are very sensitive. Maltese are very difficult to housebreak and may need to be paper or box trained.

3 stars

The Maltese, one of the many Bichon breeds indigenous to the areas surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, is believed to be as much as 2,000 years old. It is of spaniel origin, descending from the same stock that produced the Portuguese Water Dog, the Barbet and the Poodle. The breed was prized for its beauty and companionship, especially by women. The Maltese was first recognized by the AKC in 1888.