An ancient toy aristocrat draped in silky white.
Origin
Mediterranean (Malta)
Height
7–9 in (18–23 cm)
Weight
under 7 lb (under 3 kg)
Lifespan
12–15 years
Coat
Long, silky, pure white — low-shedding
Energy
Moderate
Overview
The Maltese is an ancient toy breed with a flowing, pure-white silky coat, prized as a luxury companion for over two thousand years. Small, graceful, and gentle, it has been the treasured lap dog of Mediterranean aristocracy since antiquity.
Affectionate, playful, and fearless for its size, the Maltese bonds intensely with its people and thrives on attention. It is lively and charming, adapting well to apartment life, though it dislikes being left alone for long.
History
One of the oldest companion breeds, the Maltese was cherished by ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians and later by European nobility. Bred purely for companionship, its beauty and devotion have kept it beloved for millennia.
Where it comes from
Mediterranean (Malta)
Highlighted in the Maltese's lineage color on the map.
Temperament
The Maltese is loving, spirited, and people-oriented, bonding closely and often bold despite its tiny size. It is intelligent and trainable, thriving on companionship and prone to separation anxiety if left alone too long.
Health to watch
The small, crowded mouth makes dental problems very common; regular dental care is essential.
Kneecap slipping is common in toy breeds; lean weight and screening reduce strain and severity.
Liver shunts and heart conditions occur in the breed; screening and monitoring support early management.
General breed tendencies, not a diagnosis. Every dog is an individual — pair this with regular veterinary care.
Care essentials
The long silky coat mats easily and needs daily brushing, or a shorter, more practical trim.
Brush teeth and schedule cleanings to prevent the dental disease this breed is prone to.
Maltese bond tightly and dislike isolation; company and gradual training prevent anxiety.
XPET builds each pet a digital twin — modeling their real biology instead of breed averages, so care stays personal.