Maltese
Discover the history, health, and care of the Maltese dog, from ancient lapdogs to modern hypoallergenic companions with a 13-year lifespan.
13.1 years is the median life expectancy for a Maltese, slightly above the average for purebreds and crossbreeds. This longevity is paired with a specific set of grooming needs and health risks that owners must manage from puppyhood.
History is more complex than the name suggests
The modern Maltese is a Victorian creation rather than a direct, unbroken lineage from the ancient dogs of Malta. While ancient Greek and Roman texts describe a "dwarf dog" from the island of Melita, genomic experts confirm the modern breed emerged in the 19th century through the crossing of existing toy varieties. The ancient variety, possibly resembling a short-snouted spitz, was a favorite of royalty and philosophers, but the dog seen today is a product of selective breeding that standardized the white coat and silky texture around two centuries ago.
The coat is the defining feature
The breed is defined by a dense, glossy, and silky coat that falls heavily along the body without curls or an undercoat. Unlike most dogs, the Maltese does not shed, which is why it is frequently recommended for people with allergies, though the lack of a shedding coat means the hair grows continuously and requires daily maintenance. The standard requires a pure white color, though a pale ivory tinge or light brown spotting is permitted, and owners must manage tear stains that often appear on the white fur.
Size and temperament are tightly linked
Adult Maltese typically weigh between 3 and 4 kg (7–9 lb), with females standing 20–23 cm (8–9 in) tall and males slightly larger. Despite their tiny stature, they behave in a lively, calm, and affectionate manner, ranking 59th of 79 breeds for intelligence. They are kept primarily for companionship, ornament, or competitive exhibition, and their small size makes them suitable for apartment living but requires careful handling to prevent injury.
Health risks require proactive monitoring
While generally long-lived, the breed is prone to specific hereditary conditions including liver and heart issues, as well as Luxating patella, a condition where the kneecap slips out of place. Owners should specifically check for Patent Ductus Arteriosus, a heart defect that can be fatal if untreated. The 2024 UK study placing their life expectancy at 13.1 years highlights the importance of preventative care, as this figure is higher than the 12-year average for crossbreeds and the 12.7-year average for purebreds overall.
Recognition and registration history
The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888 and definitively accepted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale under Italian patronage in 1955. Early 20th-century registries were small, with a stud book established in 1901 based on just two females, and by the 1950s, the registry counted only roughly 50 dogs. The requirement for an exclusively white coat became a standard in the 19th century, solidifying the breed's distinct appearance despite the historical confusion over its origins.