Maltese
3-4 kg
Male: 21-25 cm, Female: 20-23 cm at the shoulder
12-15 years
Central Mediterranean Area; Patronage: Italy
About the Maltese
The Maltese is an ancient and elegant breed, celebrated for centuries as the ultimate companion dog. Clad in a mantle of silky white hair, these dogs possess a refined carriage that belies a spirited and courageous personality. Despite their delicate appearance, they are surprisingly sturdy and retain a playful, puppy-like demeanor well into their senior years. As a member of the Toy group, the Maltese is designed for life indoors. They are deeply devoted to their human companions, often forming an intense bond that makes them synonymous with loyal lap dogs. Their intelligence and charm have made them a favorite in the show ring and households alike.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Maltese is a vision of pure white symmetry and grace. The breed standard demands a level topline and a characteristic smooth, flowing gait where the dog appears to be gliding under its long, silky coat. Pigmentation is critical; the nose, eye rims, and paw pads must be deep black, providing a striking contrast against the white coat.
In Australia
The Maltese has a documented presence in Australia dating back to at least 1864, when the breed was exhibited at the first dog show held in Melbourne, as recorded by the Maltese Club of Victoria.
Bred For
Companion and lap dog for nobility and royalty
Temperament
Gentle, affectionate, fearless, and highly responsive to their owners
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
, (), White Shaker Syndrome, hypoglycemia (especially in puppies), , and collapsing trachea
Exercise Needs
Moderate; approximately 30 minutes of daily activity including short walks and indoor play
Grooming Needs
High; requires daily brushing to prevent matting, regular professional grooming, and daily cleaning around the eyes to manage tear staining
Living Suitability
Excellent for apartment living and small homes; they are strictly indoor dogs and do not require a large yard
Good with Kids
Best suited for homes with older, respectful children who understand how to handle a small, fragile dog
Good with Other Pets
Generally good with other dogs and cats, though they may be bossy and unaware of their small stature
Trainability
Highly intelligent and eager to please, though they can be occasionally stubborn, particularly with housebreaking
Coat & Colours
Single coat; long, silky, and straight white hair with no undercoat. Pure white, though a slight ivory or lemon tinge on the ears is permissible in some standards
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Maltese are prone to dental disease due to their small mouths and crowded teeth, meaning a commitment to oral care and a fresh diet is essential. They are more likely to experience tear staining, which requires daily facial cleaning to keep their white coat pristine. As alert little dogs, they can be frequent barkers, often sounding off at any new noise; consistent training can help manage this vocal nature. Many Maltese are predisposed to separation anxiety because they thrive so heavily on human company, so they are best suited to households where someone is home most of the day. Like many toy breeds, they can be susceptible to luxating patellas (knee cap dislocation), so maintaining a lean weight is vital to reduce joint stress. Additionally, their hair-like coat is more likely to mat if not brushed daily, but the trade-off is very minimal shedding, making them a popular choice for those sensitive to fur. While they can be a bit slower to house-train than larger breeds, their devotion and charm make them a wonderfully rewarding addition to the family.
Feeding Guide for Your Maltese
Healthy Weight
3-4 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
70-105 grams
For a healthy adult Maltese, a fresh or raw diet should consist of approximately 2-3% of their body weight per day. For a typical 3.5 kg dog, this equates to roughly 70-105 grams daily, ideally split into two meals. Puppies and highly active adults may require slightly more to maintain energy levels.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
High-quality, nutrient-dense fresh or raw diet formulated for toy breeds to support dental health and maintain a healthy weight
Fresh or raw feeding should not be presented as preventing or treating a medical condition. Discuss diagnosis and dietary management with your veterinarian. Adding a small percentage of pureed green vegetables provides essential fiber. Given their predisposition to dental issues, providing very small, soft raw bones or specifically sized dental chews can assist in plaque management. Owners should avoid artificial colors or additives which are thought to exacerbate tear staining.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Maltese Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Maltese? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
2-4 puppies
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Other Toy Breeds
References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.