Maltese

The Maltese is one of the oldest companion dog breeds in the world, with a documented history spanning at least 2,000 years. Believed to have originated on the Mediterranean island of Malta — though some historians point to earlier origins in central Asia — the breed was prized by ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians as a luxury companion and symbol of status and refinement. It was one of the first breeds to be shown at dog exhibitions in Europe in the 19th century. Today the Maltese is one of the most consistently popular toy breeds worldwide. Under the Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC), the Maltese is classified in Group 1 (Toys).

The Maltese is a low-exercise breed requiring two short walks daily and indoor play sessions. Their small size makes them well-suited to apartment living. They are intelligent and enjoy learning tricks and commands; short, positive training sessions provide mental stimulation and strengthen the bond with their owner. Daily grooming — particularly keeping the eye area clean and the coat mat-free — is the most significant daily time commitment. Feed a quality small-breed food in measured portions twice daily; small breeds are prone to weight gain. Annual vet checks, regular parasite prevention and dental care are essential. Dental disease is one of the most significant long-term health concerns for this breed and must be addressed proactively.

The Maltese coat is long, silky and high-maintenance. Daily brushing with a soft pin brush and comb is required to prevent matting — the fine coat tangles easily, particularly behind the ears, in the armpits and around the legs. Professional grooming every four to six weeks is recommended; many pet owners opt for a shorter 'puppy cut' to reduce the daily maintenance burden while retaining the breed's soft appearance. The characteristic white coat is prone to tear staining around the eyes — clean the eye area daily with a damp cloth and address any underlying causes with your vet. Bathe every two to three weeks. Dental hygiene is critical for small breeds — brush teeth daily if possible. Trim nails every three to four weeks. Check and clean ears regularly.

Gentle, consistent handling from puppyhood is important. Despite their small size, Maltese benefit significantly from early socialisation and puppy school — without it, they can develop fearful or anxious behaviour. They respond well to positive, reward-based training and enjoy learning. Their small size makes them vulnerable to injury from rough handling; teach children to be gentle and never allow unsupervised interaction between a Maltese and very young children. Never encourage lap-dog behaviour to the exclusion of independent confidence — a well-socialised Maltese is not anxious or velcro-dependent.

Despite their small size and low exercise needs, Maltese benefit from mental stimulation and varied enrichment. Short training sessions teaching tricks — sit, shake, roll over, fetch — provide cognitive engagement and are genuinely enjoyed by this breed. Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys are appropriate for the breed's size. Indoor enrichment — sniff games, hide-and-seek with treats — suits the Maltese well. A rotation of appropriately sized toys keeps the environment novel. The Maltese enjoys being involved in household activities and benefits from a consistent daily routine. Avoid excessive isolation or confinement as a substitute for interaction.

Dental Disease: The most significant long-term health concern in the Maltese. Small breeds accumulate tartar rapidly, and periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and systemic health effects. Brush teeth daily and schedule professional dental cleans as recommended by your vet.

Patella Luxation (Luxating Patella): Kneecap dislocation; ranges from mild to requiring surgical correction. Source from health-screened breeders.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A hereditary eye condition causing progressive vision loss. Source from DNA-tested breeding lines.

Tear Staining: Common in the breed due to facial structure and coat. Daily cleaning of the eye area and investigation of underlying causes (blocked tear ducts, diet, infection) with a vet is recommended.

Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar): Can occur in very small or toy puppies if meals are delayed. Feed small meals regularly.

Separation Anxiety: Common in this people-oriented breed; manage proactively from puppyhood.