Size
- Height
- 17.8–22.9 cm
- Weight
- 3–4 kg
Energy
Needs roughly 54 min a day. Rough estimate.
Family fit
Kids
Dogs
People
Lifespan
12.0–15.0 years
Running cost varies — see methodology.
Trait map
Eight axes that describe how this breed actually lives.
Energy
3/5
Trainability
3/5
Playfulness
3/5
Protectiveness
4/5
Barking
3/5
Good with children
3/5
Good with other dogs
3/5
Good with strangers
3/5
Compared against Tibetan Terrier
Care needs
Shedding
1/5
Grooming
4/5
Drooling
1/5
Coat length
1/5
About the Maltese
Editorial copy coming soon. In the meantime, the radar above summarises the trait data we have on file.
Frequently asked
How big does a Maltese get?
Adult Malteses typically stand 17.8–22.9 cm at the shoulder and weigh 3–4 kg.
What's the life expectancy of a Maltese?
Malteses usually live 12.0–15.0 years.
Is the Maltese good with children?
Malteses sit mid-scale for children (3/5). Socialisation and the individual dog matter more than the breed average.
How much exercise does a Maltese need?
Malteses are roughly a 3/5 on our energy scale — figure on around 54 minutes a day of structured exercise as a starting point.
Is the Maltese KC recognised?
Yes — the Maltese is recognised by The Kennel Club.
Ready to look?
No active Maltese litters today. The page will show new ones as breeders post them.
See Maltese puppies →