Maltese Lifespan
This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.
Maltese average lifespan of 12-15 yrs, factors affecting longevity, and how to help your Maltese live a longer, healthier life.
Average Lifespan
The Maltese has an average lifespan of 12-15 yrs. Smaller breeds generally live longer, and well-cared-for Malteses often exceed average lifespan expectations.
A Maltese at 4-7 lbs and a 12-15 yrs lifespan has breed-level considerations that are easier to absorb before adoption than after. Living with a Maltese means adapting to a moderate-energy companion that thrives on structure, appropriate exercise, and attentive health monitoring.
Breed-Specific Health Profile: Research identifies luxating patella, dental disease, collapsed trachea as conditions with higher prevalence in Malteses. These are population-level trends, not individual certainties. Discuss with your veterinarian which screening tests are recommended for your Maltese.
Factors Affecting Longevity
Living with a Maltese means adapting to a moderate-energy companion that thrives on structure, appropriate exercise, and attentive health monitoring. Malteses with moderate energy levels strike a good balance between activity and relaxation.
- Size: small (4-7 lbs)
- Energy Level: Moderate
- Shedding: Minimal
- Lifespan: 12-15 yrs
Life Stages
Care that accounts for breed predispositions leads to earlier detection and better prevention. Three variables drive daily care for Malteses: their small size, their minimal shedding level, and their breed-associated risk of luxating patella and dental disease.
Senior Care
- Maintain an occasional grooming routine
Extending Your Maltese's Life
Owners who take a moment to learn how this element fits into Maltese Lifespan Guide care tend to avoid the panic decisions that come from not knowing. Treat published advice as a framework, then shape it around the particular pet sitting in your home.
Quality of Life
The difference between a manageable issue and a costly one is often just timing. Watch for early signs of luxating patella, maintain regular veterinary visits, and keep your dog at a healthy weight — excess weight worsens most of the conditions Malteses are prone to.
Veterinary Care Schedule for Malteses
Preventive care reduces both emergency costs and disease severity over your pet's lifetime. Here is a general framework for your Maltese. Use this as a starting point — your vet may adjust based on individual health.
| Life Stage | Visit Frequency | Key Screenings |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy (0-1 year) | Every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks, then at 6 and 12 months | Vaccinations, deworming, spay/neuter (consult AVMA guidelines on optimal timing) consultation |
| Adult (1-7 years) | Annually | Physical exam, dental check, heartworm test, vaccination boosters |
| Senior (7+ years) | Every 6 months | Blood work, urinalysis, Luxating Patella screening, Dental Disease screening, Collapsed Trachea screening |
Malteses should receive breed-specific screening for luxating patella starting at 3-5 years of age or earlier if symptoms appear. The earlier you know, the more you can do about it.
Cost of Maltese Ownership
More Maltese Guides
Find more specific guidance for Maltese health and care.