Maltese
Last verified
| type | dog |
|---|---|
| Place of origin | Mediterranean region (Malta) |
| Size | small · furry |
| Life expectancy | About 12-15 years |
| Habit | Gentle and affectionate · Cheerful, playful · Highly attached to owner · Alert, barks warnings |
| Thailand weather | Small body with a single layer of white fur. Able to adapt to hot weather if the fur is trimmed properly. But they are small so they should have shade and water and avoid strong sunlight. |
| fur care | The coat must be brushed every day or the coat cut short. This is because the long, white fur gets tangled and stains easily. |
| exercise | Requires little exercise. Short walks and adequate play indoors. |
| Common diseases in the breed | luxating patella · tooth and gum problems · tracheal collapse · liver blood clot (portosystemic shunt) |
| suitable for | Can raise a condo · Suitable for beginners · Quiet · Requires a lot of grooming |
Breed diseases that you should know before raising them
Each disease below is based on veterinary resources listed at the end of the section. And also tell what the general maintenance is like. This does not mean that every dog or cat of this breed will. But it is a more common risk than other breeds.
It is a genetically inherited condition. The kneecap on one or both sides has slipped out of its original position. It is more common in small breed dogs like Maltese.
Care guidelines: In mild cases, weight control and symptom monitoring may be required. In cases where it moves so much that it causes you to walk, it must be corrected with surgery.
PDA is a genetically inherited congenital heart disease. It is caused by blood vessels that should close shortly after birth remaining open. This causes abnormal blood flow between two main blood vessels. Many puppies are diagnosed with abnormal heart sounds. Some have a cough, have difficulty breathing, or get tired easily.
Care guidelines: PDA must be treated with surgery to close the abnormal blood vessel. If left untreated, it can progress to heart failure.
It is caused by abnormal blood vessels that cause blood to bypass the liver instead of being filtered normally. As a result, toxins accumulate in the bloodstream. It is a condition found in Maltese dogs.
Care guidelines: General care is to feed a protein-restricted formula along with medication to control toxin buildup. And it is often recommended that surgery be done to close the abnormal blood vessel.
This information is used only to help you make an informed decision before adopting. It is not a diagnosis or medical advice. If your pet has abnormal symptoms Take him to see a veterinarian.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Maltese suitable for living in a condo?
Suitable for small, single-layered, white fur. Able to adapt to hot weather if the fur is trimmed properly. But they are small so they should have shade and water and avoid strong sunlight.
How long does a Maltese live?
Generally around 12-15 years (according to veterinary sources)
What genetic diseases do Maltese have?
luxating patella · tooth and gum problems · tracheal collapse · liver blood clot (portosystemic shunt)
Can Maltese tolerate the hot weather in Thailand?
Small body with a single layer of white fur. Able to adapt to hot weather if the fur is trimmed properly. But they are small so they should have shade and water and avoid strong sunlight.
Sources: vcahospitals.com · www.petmd.com — Last checked 2026-07-28
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