How Big Do Maltese Get? Full Size, Weight & Growth Guide

Maltese Breed Overview: A Tiny Dog With a Big History

If you've ever wondered how big do Maltese get, the short answer is: not very big at all. The Maltese is a true toy breed, one of the oldest companion dogs in recorded history, and has been selectively bred for centuries to remain small enough to sit in your lap. Adult Maltese typically weigh between 4 and 7 pounds (1.8–3.2 kg) and stand just 7 to 9 inches (18–23 cm) tall at the shoulder, according to the American Kennel Club breed standard.

Originating from the central Mediterranean island of Malta (though some historians trace their lineage to the south-central coast of Sicily), the Maltese has been a favored companion of nobility for over 2,000 years. Aristotle referenced a small breed called the "Canis Melitaeus" around 370 BC, and Roman aristocrats prized them as status symbols. Unlike many toy breeds that were miniaturized from larger working dogs, the Maltese was bred almost exclusively for companionship from the start — which explains their deeply affectionate, people-oriented nature.

Maltese Quick Reference

Size Class	Toy
Adult Weight	4–7 lb (1.8–3.2 kg)
Adult Height	7–9 in (18–23 cm) at shoulder
Lifespan	12–15 years (some reach 16+)
Coat Type	Long, straight, single-layer, silky white
Energy Level	Low to moderate
Grooming Needs	High — daily brushing, professional grooming every 4–6 weeks
Apartment Friendly	Excellent
Family Fit	Best with older children (8+), adults, seniors

How Big Do Maltese Get? Weight, Height & Growth Timeline

Understanding the full growth trajectory of a Maltese helps set realistic expectations, especially if you're bringing home a puppy. Because they're a toy breed, Maltese reach their adult size faster than larger dogs — most are close to their full height by 6 months and reach their mature weight between 8 and 12 months of age.

Maltese Growth Chart by Age

Age	Average Weight	Growth Milestone
8 weeks	1.5–2.5 lb (0.7–1.1 kg)	Ready to leave breeder
3 months	2–3.5 lb (0.9–1.6 kg)	Rapid growth phase
6 months	3–5 lb (1.4–2.3 kg)	Near adult height reached
9 months	4–6 lb (1.8–2.7 kg)	Growth slowing significantly
12 months	4–7 lb (1.8–3.2 kg)	Adult weight typically achieved

A few important caveats: genetics play the largest role in final size. If both parents are on the smaller end (4–5 lb), the puppy will likely follow. Some Maltese from lines with slightly larger ancestors may reach 8 lb (3.6 kg) and still be healthy — this doesn't necessarily indicate obesity, but you should always assess body condition score (BCS) rather than rely on the scale alone. A healthy Maltese should have a visible waist when viewed from above and ribs you can feel but not prominently see.

Teacup Maltese warning: You may encounter breeders advertising "teacup" Maltese weighing 2–3 lb as adults. The AKC does not recognize a teacup variety. These dogs are often the runts of litters or the product of deliberately breeding the smallest, most fragile specimens. They carry significantly higher risks for hypoglycemia, bone fractures, dental overcrowding, and shortened lifespans. Reputable breeders do not market "teacup" sizes.

Temperament & Personality: What Living With a Maltese Is Really Like

The Maltese personality is far bigger than their frame suggests. Here are the core behavioral traits you can expect, based on breed standard descriptions and consistent owner reports:

1. Velcro-level attachment. Maltese bond intensely with their primary person. They will follow you from room to room, insist on sitting on your lap during meals, and generally want to be touching you at all times. This makes them exceptional companions for people who work from home or are retired — but it also means they're prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long stretches. Expect distress behaviors (excessive barking, pacing, destructive chewing) if routinely left alone for more than 4–5 hours.

2. Alert and vocal. Despite their size, Maltese take their watchdog role seriously. They will announce visitors, delivery drivers, and the neighbor's cat with enthusiastic barking. This is a breed trait, not a training failure — though you can manage it with desensitization and positive reinforcement techniques. If you live in an apartment with thin walls, this is worth factoring into your decision.

3. Playful but not hyperactive. A Maltese will happily chase a toy across the living room and then curl up for a nap 15 minutes later. They have bursts of energy (often called "zoomies" by owners) but lack the sustained drive of a terrier or herding breed. This makes them ideal for smaller living spaces.

4. Gentle and sensitive. Maltese tend to be soft-tempered dogs who shut down under harsh correction. They respond poorly to raised voices or physical punishment and thrive under positive reinforcement training — treats, praise, clicker work, and play rewards. Their sensitivity also means they pick up on household tension and may become clingy or withdrawn during stressful periods.

5. Surprisingly stubborn. Don't mistake their sweetness for compliance. Maltese are intelligent but can be willful, especially around housebreaking. Many owners report that potty training takes 4–6 months (sometimes longer) because the dog's tiny bladder simply can't hold much, and cold or rainy weather makes them reluctant to go outside. Consistency and crate training are essential.

Exercise & Activity Needs: What a Maltese Actually Requires

One of the most common misconceptions about toy breeds is that they don't need exercise. While a Maltese doesn't need to run miles, daily structured activity is critical for joint health, weight management, and mental stimulation. Here's what a realistic daily routine looks like:

Recommended Daily Exercise for Adult Maltese

Activity	Duration	Notes
Morning walk	15–20 minutes	Leash walk at dog's pace; sniffing time counts as mental enrichment
Indoor play session	10–15 minutes	Fetch, tug, puzzle toys, or hide-and-seek
Afternoon/evening walk	15–20 minutes	Shorter if weather is extreme (hot pavement or cold below 40°F / 4°C)
Training or trick practice	5–10 minutes	Short sessions prevent frustration; end on a positive note

Total daily target: 30–45 minutes of structured activity, split across multiple sessions. Maltese puppies (under 6 months) need less — roughly 5 minutes of structured exercise per month of age, twice daily. A 4-month-old puppy needs about 20 minutes total per day.

Because of their short legs and small stride, a Maltese's "brisk walk" is much slower than you'd expect. Let them set the pace and spend time sniffing — this olfactory exploration burns mental energy equivalent to physical exertion. Avoid forcing them to jog or keep pace with larger dogs, as this can stress developing joints in puppies and cause overheating in adults.

Common Health Issues in Maltese Dogs

Maltese are generally a healthy, long-lived breed, but like all purebreds, they carry predispositions to specific conditions. Knowing these helps you watch for early symptoms and discuss screening with your breeder or veterinarian. Always consult your veterinarian if you notice any changes in your dog's health or behavior.

Maltese Breed-Specific Health Risks

Condition	Description	Estimated Prevalence	Prevention/Management
Patellar Luxation	Kneecap slips out of position, causing intermittent skipping or lameness	Common — OFA reports ~7% of tested Maltese affected	Maintain healthy weight; avoid jumping from furniture; surgical correction in severe grades (III–IV)
White Shaker Syndrome (Steroid-Responsive Tremor Syndrome)	Whole-body tremors, especially in white-coated toy breeds; onset typically 1–5 years	Rare but breed-associated	Corticosteroid treatment is usually effective; consult a veterinary neurologist
Dental Disease	Periodontal disease, tooth overcrowding, early tooth loss due to small jaw	Very common — estimated 80%+ of toy breeds show signs by age 3	Daily tooth brushing; professional dental cleanings every 1–2 years; dental chews as supplement
Luxating Lens / Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)	Eyesight deterioration; can lead to blindness in later years	Low to moderate; responsible breeders screen via OFA/CERF	Annual veterinary ophthalmologic exams; DNA testing available for PRA
Hypoglycemia (Puppies)	Blood sugar drops rapidly, especially in puppies under 4 months or stressed dogs	Common in toy breed puppies	Frequent small meals (3–4x/day for puppies); keep Nutri-Cal or honey on hand for emergencies

Cardiac note: Older Maltese (typically 8+ years) are at elevated risk for mitral valve disease, a progressive heart condition that begins with a murmur and can advance to congestive heart failure. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that small breeds are disproportionately affected. Annual cardiac auscultation during wellness exams is essential for early detection.

Grooming Requirements: Maintaining That Signature Coat

The Maltese coat is their most recognizable feature — a flowing, single-layer, silky white mantle that sheds minimally but demands serious upkeep. If you're not prepared for a grooming commitment, consider a "puppy cut" (a short, all-over trim) that dramatically reduces maintenance.

Full coat maintenance schedule:

• Daily brushing: Use a stainless steel comb followed by a pin brush to prevent mats. Pay special attention behind the ears, under the armpits, and around the hindquarters. Mats form quickly in the fine, silky hair and can pull on skin painfully if left untreated.
• Bathing every 1–2 weeks: Use a high-quality whitening or moisturizing dog shampoo. Maltese coats can become stained (especially around the eyes and mouth) and may develop a yellowish tint without regular washing.
• Eye cleaning daily: Tear staining is extremely common in Maltese due to their shallow eye sockets and hair growing near the tear ducts. Wipe the eye area daily with a damp cloth or veterinary-recommended tear stain wipe. Products containing boric acid (like Angel Eyes) can help, but check with your vet first.
• Professional grooming every 4–6 weeks: A full groom session (bath, blowout, trim, nail clip, ear cleaning, anal gland expression if needed) typically costs $50–$80 depending on your region and coat style.
• Nail trimming every 2–3 weeks: Small dogs often don't wear nails down naturally. Overgrown nails alter foot structure and can cause pain. Use a small guillotine or scissor-style clipper; if you're unsure, have your groomer or vet tech demonstrate.
• Ear cleaning weekly: Maltese have drop ears with hair growing inside the ear canal. Pluck excess hair (your groomer can do this) and clean with a veterinarian-approved ear solution to prevent yeast and bacterial infections.

Essential grooming tools: stainless steel greyhound comb, pin brush with rounded tips, slicker brush (for puppy cut), dog-safe whitening shampoo, tear stain remover wipes, small nail clippers, and a high-velocity dryer (for full-coat blowouts).

Training & Intelligence: Smart but Independent

Maltese rank moderately in Stanley Coren's intelligence rankings for working/obedience intelligence, but this undersells their actual capability. They learn tricks quickly, excel at agility (at the toy-breed level), and are highly motivated by food rewards. The challenge isn't intelligence — it's motivation. A Maltese will often understand what you want and then decide whether it's worth their effort.

Trainability rating: 3.5 out of 5 (above average for a toy breed, below average compared to working breeds like Border Collies or German Shepherds).

Recommended training methods:

• Positive reinforcement only. Use small, high-value treats (freeze-dried liver, tiny pieces of boiled chicken), clicker marking, and enthusiastic praise. Never use shock collars, prong collars, alpha rolls, or physical corrections — these will damage trust and can trigger fear-based aggression in a sensitive breed.
• Short sessions (5–10 minutes max). Maltese lose focus quickly. Two short sessions per day outperform one long session.
• Housebreaking patience. Plan for 4–6 months of consistent crate training and scheduled outdoor trips. Take them out immediately after waking, eating, playing, and before bed. Reward heavily for outdoor elimination. Indoor grass pads or litter boxes can be practical for apartment-dwelling Maltese owners during bad weather.
• Socialization window (8–16 weeks). Expose your Maltese puppy to diverse people, surfaces, sounds, and other vaccinated dogs during this critical period. Undersocialized Maltese can develop fear-based barking and reactivity that persists into adulthood.

Family Suitability: Kids, Other Pets & Living Situations

The Maltese thrives in the right household but can be a poor fit for the wrong one. Here's an honest assessment:

With children: Maltese can be wonderful with respectful, older children who've been taught to handle small animals gently. A toddler picking up a Maltese incorrectly can fracture the dog's leg or cause spinal injury. Supervision is non-negotiable with kids under 8.

With other pets: Most Maltese coexist peacefully with cats and other small dogs. Introduce slowly and supervise initial interactions. Some Maltese have a surprisingly bold prey drive and may chase small rodents or birds — keep them separated from pet hamsters, rabbits, or birds.

Cost of Ownership: Buying and Maintaining a Maltese

Understanding the full financial commitment prevents unpleasant surprises. Here's a realistic breakdown based on 2025–2026 US pricing data:

Maltese Cost Breakdown

Expense Category	Estimated Cost (USD)	Frequency
Puppy from responsible breeder (AKC registered, health-tested parents)	$2,000–$5,000	One-time
Adoption from breed rescue	$300–$800	One-time
Initial veterinary setup (exam, DHPP/rabies vaccines, microchip, spay/neuter)	$400–$800	First year
Professional grooming	$50–$80 per session	Every 4–6 weeks ($600–$1,300/year)
High-quality food (small-breed kibble or wet food, ~½ cup/day)	$25–$45/month	$300–$540/year
Preventive medications (heartworm, flea/tick — e.g., Simparica Trio, Heartgard)	$15–$25/month	$180–$300/year
Pet insurance (accident + illness, toy breed rates)	$35–$65/month	$420–$780/year
Dental cleaning (under anesthesia)	$500–$1,200	Every 1–2 years
Supplies (crate, harness, leash, bed, toys, grooming tools)	$200–$400	First year, then replacement as needed

Estimated first-year total: $4,500–$9,000+ (including puppy purchase). Ongoing annual cost: $1,800–$3,500 depending on grooming frequency, insurance choice, and veterinary needs.

Maltese are not a budget breed. The grooming costs alone place them above many larger dogs, and their dental care needs add significant expense over a 12–15 year lifespan. Pet insurance is strongly recommended — a single emergency surgery for a luxating patella can cost $1,500–$3,500 per knee.

Finding a responsible breeder: Look for breeders who perform OFA health screenings (patella, cardiac, ophthalmologist evaluations), provide a written health guarantee, require a take-back clause if you can no longer keep the dog, and allow you to visit the breeding facility. The American Maltese Association maintains a breeder referral list. Equally valid: check the American Maltese Association Rescue Network or your local all-breed rescue for adult Maltese in need of homes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Maltese a good breed for first-time dog owners?

Yes, with caveats. Maltese are affectionate, adaptable, and don't require advanced training skills to manage. However, first-time owners should be prepared for the grooming commitment, the extended housebreaking timeline, and the emotional intensity of a dog that doesn't want to be left alone. If you work long hours away from home, a more independent breed may be a better fit.

How much exercise does a Maltese need daily?

An adult Maltese needs approximately 30–45 minutes of structured activity per day, split into two short leash walks (15–20 minutes each) plus indoor play or training sessions. This is manageable even for people with limited mobility or busy schedules. Puppies under 6 months need less — about 5 minutes per month of age, twice daily.

What health problems is the Maltese breed prone to?

The most common breed-specific concerns include patellar luxation (slipping kneecaps), dental disease (extremely prevalent in toy breeds), tear staining, hypoglycemia in puppies, and mitral valve disease in older dogs. Less common but notable are White Shaker Syndrome and certain eye conditions. Responsible breeders screen for these through OFA and CERF testing.

How big does a Maltese get as an adult?

A fully grown Maltese typically weighs 4–7 lb (1.8–3.2 kg) and stands 7–9 inches (18–23 cm) tall at the shoulder. They reach near-adult height by 6 months and full adult weight by 8–12 months. Dogs marketed as "teacup" Maltese (under 4 lb) are not recognized by the AKC and carry elevated health risks.

Is the Maltese good with children and other pets?

Maltese do well with respectful children aged 8 and older and generally coexist peacefully with cats and other small dogs. They are not recommended for homes with toddlers due to their fragile frame — accidental drops or rough handling can cause serious injury. Supervise all interactions between young children and any toy breed.

How much does a Maltese cost to buy and maintain?

Expect to pay $2,000–$5,000 for a puppy from a responsible, health-testing breeder (adoption from breed rescue runs $300–$800). Annual maintenance costs range from $1,800–$3,500, driven largely by professional grooming ($600–$1,300/year), food, preventive medications, and dental care. Over a 12–15 year lifespan, total lifetime cost of ownership typically falls between $25,000 and $50,000.