About the Maltese
Ancient Mediterranean toy breed with a luxurious white silk coat, bred solely as a companion for at least 2,000 years. One of the most popular toy breeds, known for their gentle, playful nature.
Weight Range
4–7
lbs
Size
🐕 Toy Breed
Activity
🚶 Moderate Activity
Lifespan
12-15 years
Maltese Temperament & Personality
Swipe to explore personality traits →
Gentle
Soft and careful in their interactions — naturally cautious around children and small pets.
Playful
Loves games, toys, and interactive fun — keeps their youthful spirit throughout life.
Charming
Irresistibly endearing with a personality that wins over everyone they meet.
Active
High energy and always on the move — needs plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Affectionate
Deeply loving and enjoys physical closeness, cuddles, and bonding with their family.
Maltese Health & Dietary Needs
Common Health Considerations
Breed-Specific Nutritional Guidance
Tiny breed prone to hypoglycemia, dental disease, and liver issues. Frequent small meals prevent blood sugar crashes. Dental-health food essential. Their white coat benefits from omega fatty acids and can stain from food allergies.
Estimated Daily Calories for Malteses
Based on a typical 6 lb Maltese with moderate activity level:
237
calories per day
* This is an estimate using the RER formula (70 × weight_kg^0.75 × activity multiplier). Use our calculator below for a precise recommendation based on your dog's exact weight, age, and condition.
Complete Maltese Feeding Guide
Expert Tips for Malteses
Feed 3–4 small meals daily to prevent hypoglycemia. Dental care through diet is critical. If tear staining occurs, it may indicate food allergy — try limited-ingredient diet.
Practical Feeding Guidelines
Meal Frequency
Feed 2-3 small meals per day to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Portion Control
Always measure portions with a kitchen scale or measuring cup. Treats should not exceed 10% of daily calories.
Hydration
Ensure fresh water is always available. A Maltese needs approximately 3–6 oz of water daily.
Weight Monitoring
Weigh your Maltese monthly and adjust portions accordingly. Ideal body condition means you can feel (but not see) the ribs.
Get Your Maltese's Exact Calorie Needs
Our free calculator uses veterinarian-approved formulas to give you a personalized feeding recommendation based on your Maltese's exact weight, age, activity level, and body condition.
Calculate Now — It's Free