Also called Maltese Bichon, Bichon Maltais, Maltese Lion Dog, Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta, Canis melitaeus (historic Latin)
Recognised breedFCI group 9Deep profile
From Central Mediterranean Basin (FCI country of origin), with Italy as FCI country of patronage; the name links the breed to the island of Malta, which classical writers named as its home1234
FCI gives 3-4 kg for both sexes. The AKC standard asks for under 7 lb (about 3.2 kg) with 4-6 lb (about 1.8-2.7 kg) preferred; UKC gives 6-8 lb (about 2.7-3.6 kg).
A tiny, long-bodied dog that carries its head high and proud. The body is longer than the dog is tall, and the tail arches over the back. Its hallmark is a pure white, glossy coat with no undercoat that hangs straight and heavy down each side, reaching close to the ground in a full show coat. The hair should have no waves or curls, and it moves like a cape as the dog trots along.2563
Colourspure whitepale ivory tinge allowed (FCI)light tan or lemon on the ears permitted but not preferred (AKC)256
Personality what they are like
A sweet-natured, trusting little companion that loves being near its people. It is playful and full of life yet can settle calmly indoors, and it seems to have no idea how small it is. Alert and quick to notice visitors, it will often announce arrivals. It is clever and enjoys learning tricks, and it is happiest with gentle handling and a calm household routine.25768
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Low. Around 20-30 minutes of activity a day, such as short walks and indoor play, keeps it content. Energetic for its size but well suited to flats and small homes.47
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
High. The long single coat needs daily brushing and regular baths to stay tangle-free, and the hair around the eyes should be wiped clean every day. Many owners keep pets in a shorter trim for easier care. It sheds very little.473
Home where they are happiest
An indoor companion that adapts well to apartments and smaller spaces. Its small size means it should be supervised around boisterous play and protected from cold or wet weather with its light frame.74
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A complete, good-quality food formulated for small or toy breeds, fed in small portions suited to its size and activity. Some individuals can be fussy eaters, so a consistent routine helps.7
Company who they like around
Very people-oriented and prefers company for much of the day. It does best with adults or gentle, older children and benefits from calm, early socialisation with new people and pets.756
The story where it all began
Small white dogs of this type have lived around the central Mediterranean for well over two thousand years. The FCI explains that their ancestors worked in port towns catching mice and rats, and that the name probably comes from a Semitic word meaning refuge or harbour. Greek and Roman writers, including Aristotle and Strabo, described tiny dogs from Melita, generally taken to be Malta, and a Greek amphora from around 500 BC shows a small dog labelled melitaie. The Romans kept them as treasured lapdogs, and the poet Martial wrote verses about one named Issa. The type continued through the Renaissance as a favourite of noble households. In Victorian Britain the breed was shown as its own class at Islington in 1862, and Queen Victoria commissioned Edwin Landseer to paint one in 1837. Across the Atlantic a 'Maltese Lion Dog' appeared at the first Westminster show in 1877, the AKC accepted the breed in 1888, and the FCI gave it definitive recognition under Italian patronage in 1955.23476
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
The FCI traces the name 'Maltese' to a Semitic word, 'malat', meaning a refuge or harbour, rather than directly to the island.2
2
A Greek amphora from about 500 BC found at Vulci shows a little pointed-nosed dog labelled 'melitaie'.3
3
The Roman poet Martial wrote verses about a pampered lapdog called Issa, often said to have been a Maltese.3
4
Queen Victoria commissioned Edwin Landseer to paint a Maltese named Quiz in 1837, in a picture titled 'The Lion Dog from Malta: The Last of his Tribe'.3
5
At the very first Westminster Kennel Club show in New York in 1877, the breed was entered as a 'Maltese Lion Dog'.3
6
Its coat has no undercoat at all, and the breed standard asks for hair that hangs almost to the ground.5
7
The Royal Kennel Club notes an 1805 account by a Knight of Malta describing the island's dogs with long silky hair.4
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The name 'Maltese' does not necessarily mean the breed originates from the island of Malta; it comes from the Semitic word 'màlat' meaning refuge or harbour, and was used for various Mediterranean port cities and islands.9
Famous ones stars of the breed
Maltese dog of Mary Queen of Scots According to legend, a Maltese dog named 'the little Maltese' was hidden in her skirts and discovered after her execution.3
Maltese dog in Renaissance paintings Numerous Renaissance painters depicted Maltese dogs in their works, showing them as companions of elegant ladies.9
I wake up curled beside my human, feeling the gentle rise and fall of their breathing. When they stir, I give a tiny lick to say good morning. After breakfast, we go for a short walk, I trot proudly, though I know I'm small. I greet every dog with a wag, even the big ones. Back home, I play with my squeaky toy, then settle on the sofa for a snuggle. I love watching out the window; I bark softly when someone passes. In the evening, I learn a new trick for a treat. Life is sweet and simple, and I am always near my favorite person.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
FCI
Standard No. 65, Group 9 (Companion and Toy Dogs), Section 1 (Bichons and related breeds); definitive acceptance 13 Apr 1955; current standard dated 13 Nov 2015; country of patronage Italy; no working trial1
The Royal Kennel Club
Toy Group; recognised breed, not on the vulnerable native breeds list4
AKC
Toy Group; recognised 1888; current standard approved 10 Mar 19645
Popularity AKC registrations rank #37 in 2025 (also #37 in 2024)1011
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Maltese. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery 2 days
Bathevery month
HaircutTrim feathering and feet, or keep a short cutevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
Eye wipeGently wipe around the eyesevery day
ExerciseAbout 60 minutes a dayevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Maltese tip
Maltese can have sensitive tummies, so stick to high-quality, low-fat treats and avoid salty or fatty human foods. Because they are prone to dental disease, daily tooth brushing and vet-approved dental chews are a great way to keep their mouth healthy and reward them at the same time.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Maltese, and at what times?
Feed your Maltese at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four for puppies, to keep their energy steady. A consistent routine helps, especially since some can be fussy. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.712
What should a Maltese eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A complete, good-quality food made for small or toy breeds is ideal. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, which are especially harmful to dogs. Always keep these out of reach.713
How often should I bathe a Maltese?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 28 days, but general guidance says at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your Maltese gets dirty or has skin issues, but avoid overbathing to protect their silky coat.14Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Maltese need brushing?
Brush your Maltese daily to prevent tangles and mats in their long, silky coat. Furry Diary's starting plan recommends every 2 days, but daily brushing is ideal for this breed. It also helps keep shedding very low.47314Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Maltese's nails, and how often?
Trim your Maltese's nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, about every three weeks. Use a dog nail trimmer and cut small amounts to avoid the quick. If unsure, ask a vet or groomer for a demonstration.14Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Maltese need?
Your Maltese needs about 20 to 30 minutes of activity daily, like short walks and indoor play, to stay happy. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests up to 60 minutes, but adjust based on your dog's energy. They are playful yet content with less.47Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Maltese's teeth and ears?
Brush your Maltese's teeth daily with dog toothpaste and check their ears weekly for moisture or debris. Gently wipe around the eyes each day to keep them clean. Never push anything into the ear canal.14Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Maltese live?
A Maltese typically lives 12 to 14 years, bringing many happy years of companionship. With good care, they can enjoy a long, healthy life.743
Is a Maltese good with children and other pets?
Maltese are sweet and trusting, doing best with gentle, older children and calm socialisation. They can get along with other pets when introduced early and carefully. Always supervise play due to their small size.756
Can a Maltese be left alone?
Maltese are very people-oriented and prefer company, so they may struggle if left alone for long periods. With gradual training and a consistent routine, they can manage short absences. For specific advice, ask your vet or a professional trainer.756
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Bichon Frise
Bolognese
Havanese
Coton de Tulear
Yorkshire Terrier
Shih Tzu