Maltese: temperament, grooming and suitability for families
The Maltese is one of the oldest companion breeds — a tiny dog with a long, silky white coat and a personality far bolder than its size suggests. It typically weighs just 3–4 kg, but carries the confidence of a dog ten times its weight.
Temperament
Maltese dogs are lively, affectionate and deeply attached to their person. They love closeness and tend to handle long separations worse than many other breeds — separation anxiety is a real risk. They can be wary of strangers at first but warm up quickly. Thanks to their alertness and readiness to bark a warning, they make surprisingly effective little watchdogs despite their size.
Good with children
★★★
Maltese dogs are playful and affectionate, but their tiny frame is fragile — an accidental squeeze or drop by a young child can cause real injury. They do best with older children who already know how to handle a dog gently. They're not recommended around very young children without constant adult supervision.
Grooming & care
The long, silky white coat has no undercoat but needs brushing almost daily, or it mats quickly. Many owners opt for a shorter "teddy bear" trim from a professional groomer every 4–6 weeks. Tear staining around the eyes is a common issue, so daily cleaning with a damp cloth is needed. Their small jaw is also prone to dental problems, so regular tooth care matters.
Exercise & daily routine
The Maltese doesn't need much exercise — two short walks a day (15–20 minutes each) plus indoor play are plenty. Their low physical demands make them a good fit even for people with limited mobility. That said, even a small dog needs consistency and mental stimulation, or it can get bored and start barking excessively.
Can you handle the daily routine?
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Download on theApp StoreWho is the Maltese right for?
The Maltese is a great fit for apartment dwellers, seniors, and anyone looking for a small, loving companion without high exercise demands. Coat care requires real commitment, and it doesn't cope well with being left alone for long stretches. Less suitable for families with small children, or households where the dog would spend most of the day alone.
Compare with other small breeds in our breed guide. For apartment-friendly options, see our article on best apartment dogs.