Pros and Cons of Maltese Dogs

Ever wondered what makes a Maltese pup so irresistible? Is it their silky, pure white coats or their big, expressive round eyes that just instantly pull you in? If you've ever been charmed by a Maltese, you're not alone. 

Widely recognized for their grace, beauty, and elegance, Maltese dogs have long held a premium spot in the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. But before you enter the world of pet ownership with this breed, you might be wondering about the benefits and challenges of having a Maltese dog. 

Well ... you’re in the right place! So buckle up as we explore everything you need to know before welcoming this loving breed into your home.

Pros of Maltese Dogs

1. Adorable appearance 

Have you ever looked at Maltese dogs and marveled at their charm? Well, you're not alone! These pint-sized pals, with their fluffy white coats and button eyes, are universally adored for their teddy-bear-like looks. And if you like to mix it up a bit, Maltese dogs are versatile when it comes to their grooming. Many owners opt for a puppy or teddy bear cut that's delightfully cute and time-saving.  

2. Extremely affectionate 

Maltese dogs are known for being incredibly affectionate and forming deep bonds with their owners. They are renowned for their loving personalities and form deep attachments with their owners. Maltese dogs are not only a source of endless affection, but also thrive on human interaction and love to be the center of attention. Their bond with their owners and families is truly heartwarming. 

3. Remarkable mood boosters 

Ever find yourself in need of a little pick-me-up after a long, tiring day? Maltese are natural entertainers and their positive energy is contagious. Known for their joyful, playful antics, these dogs can effortlessly brighten up your day. It's hard to resist smiling when you're greeted by their cheery disposition and tail-wagging excitement. It’s no surprise that these dogs have a reputation for being excellent mood boosters! 

4. Pocket-friendly portability 

It's hard to ignore the convenience their compact size offers. Barely tipping the scales at 4-6 pounds, Maltese are among the smallest breeds, making them incredibly easy to manage. This size allows for easy travel, whether you're running errands or taking an extended trip. 

5. Highly alert and intelligent 

Ever wished having a small dog that's both vigilant and curious? Look no further than the Maltese. Their intelligent and alert nature makes them excellent watchdogs. Despite their small size, they are quick to bark at perceived intruders, keeping your home secure. They're not just watchful but also incredibly quick learners, which makes teaching them new tricks a delightful experience. 

6. Minimal shedding ... and allergy-friendly! 

Frustrated with fur everywhere? Then you'll be thrilled to hear that Maltese dogs shed little to no hair at all. This trait, combined with their hypoallergenic natures, truly makes Maltese dogs a dream for house-proud pet owners. No more sweeping up clumps of fur! Also, With their human-like hair rather than fur, this breed is low-dander and can be considered hypoallergenic. 

7. Great choice for first-time pet owners 

Are you venturing into pet ownership for the first time? Renowned for their adaptable personality, Maltese dogs are a fitting option for first-time pet owners. They have plenty of playful energy, are eager to learn and please, and adjust well to the lifestyle of a beginner pet parent. They also have lower energy and maintenance needs than some other dogs! 

8. Perfect playmates for children and other pets 

The Maltese are exceptionally loving and gentle by nature, making them great playmates for children and other pets. They bond well with their fellow housemates, whether furry or not. Your kids would cherish a friend who's always energetic and playful, right? Just ensure to supervise interactions with very young children, as Maltese dogs are small and prone to injury. 

9. Highly trainable 

As a breed, Maltese dogs are renowned for their impressive trainability. They are incredibly responsive to positive reinforcement training methods, and are companions who quickly learn to follow your lead. This diligence and learnability can make them really well-behaved companions.

10. High longevity  

Maltese dogs are renowned for their longevity, with many living between 12 to 15 years. It's comforting to know that with proper care and nourishment, your Maltese companion will likely be with you for many years to come.

11. Low exercise needs 

Maltese dogs are your perfect match. While they certainly have bursts of energy to burn and a playful nature, they don't need strenuous daily exercise routines. A leisurely stroll around the block or engaging games at home perfectly suit their exercise needs. This makes them an excellent dog breed for busy owners, seniors, or those who simply prefer more sedate activities.  

12. Perfect for apartment living 

Do you live in an apartment or a smaller living space? No worries, Maltese dogs have got you covered. With their lesser shedding, lower energy levels, and small size, these little fur pals are the perfect apartment dwellers. They can be prone to barking however, so it's important to keep that in mind before bringing a Maltese into your apartment life

Cons of Maltese Dogs

1. Potential for separation anxiety 

Being a breed that possesses strong loyalty tendencies, the Maltese dog may suffer from separation anxiety issues. Used to having constant companionship, they may not handle alone time well, often leading to destructive behaviors or excessive barking. This bubbling personality trait might pose a challenge, especially if you have a job that keeps you away from home for extended periods. 

2. High prey drive 

Although Maltese dogs are known for their adorable appearance and playful nature, their high prey drive shouldn't be ignored. Have you ever seen a tiny Maltese dog chasing squirrels or birds with unyielding determination? Their instincts to chase are pretty strong, and this can sometimes result in dangerous situations. You may need to be cautious and keep an eye on them, especially when they're outdoors. This could also make them a little tricky to manage if there are other smaller pets in the house. 

3. Vulnerable to accidental injury 

Maltese dogs are popular for their small, compact size, but this characteristic also makes them vulnerable. These little furballs are so light and small that they can be easily hurt, even with a simple misstep. Care must be taken around young children who might accidentally hurt them during play. 

4. Prone to certain health issues 

Maltese dogs may be susceptible to health problems like dental issues, exercise intolerance, and risks of heart disease and obesity. As a prospective Maltese owner, you must be ready to deal with these potential health challenges.  

5. Need plenty of grooming 

Falling for that cute, fluffy coat? It comes with more responsibility than meets the eye! The Maltese's hair grows quite fast and needs frequent cutting, washing, and combing to prevent matting and tangles. Maintaining that luxurious coat can be both time-consuming and expensive, requiring daily brushing and a full grooming session every four to six weeks. Additionally, their eye region requires consistent cleaning to avoid staining and infections. 

6. Sensitive to extreme temperatures 

The Maltese breed has a single layer coat, which can pose a problem when it comes to climate conditions. Lacking an insulating undercoat, these dogs are highly susceptible to cold weather conditions and similarly uncomfortable in extreme heat. If you're considering a Maltese, you might want to consider these climate-related factors seriously. Does your living environment have weather extremes? 

7. Can be prone to barking 

Maltese dogs are known for their alert nature, which unfortunately, can often lead to excessive barking. If not correctly trained, this can result in unwanted noise at home. They tend to be sensitive to their surroundings and may bark at every little noise or movement they detect. Consequently, they might not be the best breed choice for homes with neighbors sensitive to noise. 

8. Prone to weight gain 

Maltese dogs might look petite and delicate, but they have a high propensity to gain weight. They adore treats, which when combined with their low exercise requirements, can easily tip the scale to the heavier side. Owners should keep a careful watch on their diet and make sure they get a balanced mix of nutrients, at the right quantities, and the recommended amount of daily exercise. 

9. Stubborn with training 

Maltese dogs can exhibit a fair amount of stubbornness during training sessions. Housebreaking, in particular, can be a challenging phase that requires some patience and consistency. Crate training is usually recommended to assist with this, along with early and persistent socialization. Remember, the earlier you start, the better chance you have of curbing a stubborn streak in your Maltese. 

10. Prone to dental problems 

Given their small mouths, Maltese dogs are susceptible to dental issues. Their mouths can become overcrowded with teeth, causing buildup of plaque and tartar. Their teeth need brushing at least two to three times a week to prevent this buildup, bad breath, and gum disease. 

11. Can develop small dog syndrome 

Your Maltese may need some assertive leadership. This breed tends to develop 'small dog syndrome' - a set of behaviors exhibited by small breeds due to improper handling and spoiling by their owners. They may develop excessive barking, hyperactivity, or even aggression if not properly trained. This brings in the need for a consistent and gentle hand in training.

12. Finicky eaters 

Maltese dogs can be quite fussy and choosy when it comes to their food. They often demand specially formulated dog food, and many owners resort to rotating various brands and flavors to keep their appetite in check. So, it might take a good deal of patience and time to figure out what your Maltese loves to munch on. 

In Conclusion

Bringing home a Maltese puppy is no small task—these little beauties require regular grooming, careful management, and a balanced diet to stay healthy. Yet, the joy you'll get from their companionship is truly one of a kind.

Whether you're looking for a an active playmate for your kids and pets, or a sweet-natured companion to lift your moods, the Maltese's affection and cheerfulness is sure to charm you. Just be sure you're ready to reciprocate their endless affection and loyalty, and make your home their paradise on earth.