Maltese: Character, Health, Feeding, Price, and Care

The Maltese are a gentle, fearless dog breed that makes friends with everyone they meet. They look noble and regal with their glamorous white coats, but have spunky personalities and love to play.

However, they can be high-maintenance when it comes to their health. Maltese require regular grooming to keep their coats looking good and can be prone to dental problems if not properly cared for.

This guide will provide you with all the information about Maltese, from their character and health to feeding and care advice.

What Is a Maltese?

This is an energetic and lively dog who does well as a companion and in therapy work and agility, obedience, rally, and tracking competitions. But most of all, they love to be with their people. Malteses make great pets for novice owners and those living in apartments.

The Maltese is an ancient breed that may have originated from Malta, though its origins remain a mystery. These adorable dogs were brought to Malta by the Phoenicians more than 2000 years ago, and stone statuettes resembling modern-day Malteses have been found in the tomb of Pharaoh Ramses II. Whether they hail from Malta or some other location, one thing is for sure - the Maltese make lovely companions and bring joy to any home.    

What Is Maltese Size?

Maltese should weigh between four and seven pounds, with males being eight to ten inches tall at the shoulder and females being eight to nine inches tall. This is the perfect weight and size for these dogs, as they are compact and agile.

Maltese: Average Lifespan

The average lifespan of a Maltese Bichon is 13 years. This may seem like a short amount of time, but with the right care and attention, your Bichon can live a full and happy life.

How to Take Care of Your Maltese's Health?

Maltese are one of the healthiest breeds of dogs, but like all animals, they can still be prone to certain conditions.

• Older Maltese are susceptible to heart disease and heart failure, but proper vet checkups, dental care, and weight control can help prevent these issues.
• Dental disease is a common problem for Maltese dogs. It begins with tartar buildup and can eventually lead to gum infection and tooth root issues.
• Hydrocephalus, or water on the brain, is a condition that may affect some Maltese puppies. Watch for signs of balance problems, poor coordination, and head tilting.

With proper diet, exercise, and regular vet visits, your Maltese will stay healthy.

Here are some tips to help your Maltese stay healthy:

• The Maltese are a breed that needs a bit more coat care than some other dogs. Although brushing and grooming should be enjoyable activities for both you and your pet, it's essential to keep up with them, so your dog can avoid ending up with a giant coat. Make sure to trim regularly or take your dog to a groomer if you don't want to deal with all that hair.
• Vaccination is essential to staying on top of your Maltese's health. Vaccinations help prevent diseases, and regular vet checkups may help catch any health issues early on.
• Ensure your Maltese is getting plenty of exercises. Exercise helps keep their muscles strong and reduces the risk of obesity.

What to Feed Your Maltese?

They also tend to be fussy eaters, so it's important to provide them with a diet that meets their nutritional needs without making them overweight or underweight. Dogs need a healthy diet in order to stay fit and active. Some great options include raw food diets or high-protein diets without grains.

When choosing food for your pet, it's important to look carefully at the ingredients and ensure that it contains sufficient protein. Ideally, you should choose food made primarily of muscle meat. Steer clear of foods that are made mostly of animal meat and fat.

How Much Does a Maltese Cost?

The average Maltese can range from costing $600 to $2,000. The cheaper ones may not have any champions in their bloodline and have been bred to be companion animals, while the more expensive ones may be bred as show dogs.

Final Thoughts on Maltese Dogs

Maltese dogs are loyal and loving companions, but they do require a bit of extra care. Making sure your Maltese gets their regular vet checkups, dental care, and a healthy diet will help keep them healthy. Additionally, they need exercise and regular grooming to stay in top shape. With proper care, your Maltese will make a wonderful pet for many years to come.