“I have three pups, all picky eaters, and they devoured their meals! I’m so happy to have found a quick, easy and super healthy food.”
Verified PurchaseQuick Stats About the Maltese
Height 7–9 inches
Weight 4–7 lbs
Lifespan 12–15 years
Energy level Moderate
Shedding Low
Grooming High-maintenance
Breed Group
Toy
Demeanor
Loving, lively, loyal
Temperament
Affectionate, intelligent, alert
Maltese: Everything You Need to Know
The Maltese is a charming toy breed known for its silky white coat, expressive eyes, and affectionate personality. With roots tracing back to ancient Mediterranean cultures, the Maltese has long been adored as a companion dog, especially by royalty. Despite their delicate appearance, they are lively, playful, and fearless, often surprising their owners with their spirited energy. They are incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their families, making them ideal lapdogs and loyal companions. Their small size makes them well-suited to apartment living, but they still need daily exercise and mental stimulation. While they don’t shed much, their luxurious coats require regular grooming to avoid tangles and matting. The Maltese is also known for being a relatively long-lived breed, often staying sprightly well into their senior years. However, they can be prone to dental issues and sensitive stomachs, so proper care — including a high-quality diet — is essential. Their intelligence and alert nature also make them good watchdogs, though some may have a tendency to bark excessively if not properly trained. Overall, the Maltese is a delightful and devoted companion, thriving best in homes that can offer plenty of love, attention, and thoughtful nutrition.
Create the Perfect Meal Plan for Your MalteseWhat Makes a Maltese UniqueÂ
The Maltese may be small in size, but their personality and charm are larger than life. Known for their signature silky white coat and expressive eyes, they have a timeless elegance that sets them apart. As one of the oldest toy breeds, the Maltese has a noble history of being adored by aristocrats and royals — and they still carry themselves like little kings and queens. Despite their dainty looks, they’re surprisingly bold and confident, often acting like they're ten times their size. Their deep loyalty to their people means they’re rarely far from your side, always seeking closeness and affection. Maltese dogs also tend to have a longer lifespan than many breeds, often remaining playful and sprightly well into their senior years. They’re quick learners, emotionally intelligent, and responsive to human emotions — traits that make them exceptional companions. However, their sensitive nature means they do best in calm, loving environments with consistent routines. They’re also more prone to issues like dental disease, tear staining, and picky eating, which means their care — especially their diet — needs to be just as special as they are. A personalized approach to nutrition can help them thrive at every stage of life.
Create a Meal Plan That Caters to Your Maltese's Unique Needs
Health Considerations for MalteseÂ
While Maltese dogs are generally long-lived and healthy, like all breeds, they are predisposed to certain health concerns. Being aware of these potential issues can help owners provide proactive care and support their dog’s well-being at every stage of life. A thoughtful diet, regular vet checkups, and early intervention can go a long way in preventing or managing common Maltese health conditions. Nutrition plays a particularly important role, especially since this breed can be sensitive to certain ingredients.
Dental Disease
Maltese are highly prone to dental issues, including plaque buildup, tartar, and gum disease. Their small mouths can lead to overcrowded teeth, which makes them more vulnerable to oral health problems. Poor dental hygiene not only affects their breath but can also lead to systemic health issues if left untreated. Regular brushing, dental chews, and routine cleanings are important — and so is choosing food that supports dental health. Fresh food without fillers or artificial additives can reduce buildup and inflammation. A personalized plan can even factor in dental support with texture and ingredients that help keep teeth cleaner.
Tear Staining
Tear staining is common in Maltese, often leaving reddish-brown streaks under their eyes. This can be caused by excessive tearing, blocked tear ducts, or sensitivities to ingredients in food or water. While mostly cosmetic, persistent tear stains can indicate underlying irritation or dietary intolerance. Feeding a clean, limited-ingredient diet can reduce inflammation and improve overall eye health. Fresh food made with high-quality, easily digestible proteins and no artificial coloring or preservatives may help reduce tear staining over time. Personalized meals tailored to sensitive dogs like the Maltese can make a visible difference.
Luxating Patella
Luxating patella — or kneecap dislocation — is a relatively common orthopedic issue in small breeds like the Maltese. It can cause intermittent lameness, hopping, or pain when walking or running. While mild cases may only require monitoring, more severe cases can lead to long-term mobility issues without proper management. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best ways to reduce stress on the joints. Diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids and anti-inflammatory ingredients can also help support joint health. A tailored meal plan can ensure your Maltese gets joint-friendly nutrition while avoiding excess calories.
Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)
Maltese puppies and even some adults can experience episodes of low blood sugar, especially if they go too long without eating. Signs can include weakness, lethargy, shaking, or even seizures in severe cases. It’s important to feed them on a consistent schedule and provide nutrient-dense meals that stabilize blood glucose levels. Diets with a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and complex carbohydrates are ideal for maintaining energy. Personalized meal plans that account for size, age, and activity level help prevent drops in blood sugar. A reliable feeding routine paired with fresh, whole foods supports long-term metabolic health.
Nutrition for Every Stage and Need
The Maltese may be small, but their nutritional needs are anything but simple. From energetic puppies to graceful seniors, every stage of a Maltese's life calls for thoughtful, tailored nutrition. Personalized fresh food can help support their health, energy levels, and sensitive systems at every age.
Nutrition for Maltese Puppies
Maltese puppies need a nutrient-dense diet to support their rapid growth, brain development, and immune system. Because of their tiny size, they should eat frequent, small meals that provide plenty of protein and healthy fats. It’s also important to include DHA (a type of omega-3) to support cognitive development. Maltese pups can be prone to hypoglycemia, so a consistent feeding schedule with balanced nutrients helps maintain their blood sugar. Fresh, easily digestible ingredients are ideal for young, sensitive stomachs. A personalized puppy meal plan ensures your Maltese gets exactly what they need to grow up strong and healthy.
Nutrition for Adult Maltese
As adults, Maltese dogs benefit from balanced meals that support their energy levels, coat health, and digestion. Protein remains essential for muscle maintenance, while omega-3s help promote healthy skin and a silky coat. Adult Maltese can be picky eaters, so mealtime becomes easier when meals are made with real, palatable ingredients. Avoiding fillers, preservatives, and artificial additives is especially important for their long-term health. Weight management also becomes a focus in adulthood, particularly since they are a small breed. A tailored meal plan can keep your adult Maltese feeling full, satisfied, and energized — without excess calories.
Nutrition for Senior Maltese
As Maltese age, they may slow down and become more prone to joint issues, dental disease, and digestive sensitivity. Their metabolism also changes, meaning they require fewer calories but still need nutrient-rich meals. Soft, easy-to-chew food is a good option for aging teeth. Ingredients like glucosamine and omega-3s can support joint and cognitive health. Seniors also benefit from a diet rich in antioxidants to fight inflammation and support immunity. A personalized meal plan takes the guesswork out of senior nutrition, ensuring your older Maltese stays vibrant and comfortable.
Nutrition for Overweight Maltese
Due to their small size and love of treats, Maltese dogs can quickly gain excess weight, which can strain their joints and lead to other health issues. Weight management starts with proper portioning and meals made from whole, low-calorie, but satisfying ingredients. Lean proteins and high-fiber vegetables help keep them full without adding extra pounds. Avoiding high-carb fillers like corn or wheat is key for this breed. Fresh food with real, whole ingredients is easier to portion and digest. A customized weight management plan supports gradual, healthy weight loss while keeping your Maltese happy and nourished.
Nutrition for Sensitive Maltese
Many Maltese have sensitive stomachs or food intolerances that can lead to digestive upset, itchy skin, or tear staining. Feeding a fresh, limited-ingredient diet can help pinpoint and eliminate problematic foods. Easily digestible proteins and low-glycemic veggies are ideal for this breed. Avoiding artificial additives, by-products, and fillers is especially important for sensitive dogs. Nutrient balance is still critical — even hypoallergenic meals should be complete and support all aspects of health. A personalized plan allows you to feed your Maltese confidently, knowing every ingredient supports their unique needs.
Give Your Maltese the Nutrition They DeserveÂ
Your Maltese deserves more than just any meal — they deserve the best. A diet tailored to their size, age, and health needs ensures they live their happiest, healthiest life. By choosing real, human-grade ingredients, you can provide your Maltese with the highest quality nutrients, free from fillers, artificial additives, and preservatives. NutriCanine’s personalized meal plans are designed to support your Maltese’s specific needs, whether they’re a playful puppy, an active adult, or a wise senior. With fresh food made just for them, you can be confident that every bite is working to boost their energy, support their joints, and keep their skin and coat glowing. Give your Maltese the nutrition they deserve, and watch them thrive.
Maltese Dog Breed: Everything You Need to Know in 5 Minutes!
Ready to Provide the Best Nutrition for Your Maltese?Â
NutriCanine’s personalized meal plans are designed to meet the unique nutritional needs of your Maltese. Our fresh, high-quality ingredients ensure your dog gets the best possible nutrition, tailored specifically to their age, size, and health goals. From puppies to seniors, every Maltese deserves a diet that supports their energy, digestion, and overall well-being. Start your journey to better health and happiness for your Maltese today, knowing that each meal is crafted to nourish them at every stage of life. NutriCanine makes it easy for you to provide the very best for your dog — all delivered fresh and ready to serve.
Our Gently Cooked RecipesÂ
- Guided by science
- Made fresh daily
Our recipes, developed by an agronomist, are nutrient-rich, delicious, and complete and balanced, meeting AAFCO guidelines.
Sensitive Tummies
Chicken Recipe
Bowl lickin' good - bet we don’t keep our recipe a secret! For healthier skin and coat with nutrient-dense broccoli and carrots.
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Lean Choice
Turkey Recipe
Just like your Thanksgiving meal, but specially designed for your dog. For improved digestibility, enhanced by superfood kale and butternut squash.
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Picky-Eater Approved
Beef Recipe
Perfect for the pickiest eaters and gluten-sensitive dogs with highly digestible rice and antioxidant-rich berries.
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Hypoallergenic
Lamb Recipe
Designed for dogs with allergies and sensitivities, enriched by nutrient-packed green beans and carrots.
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