Maltese Shedding
This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.
Maltese shedding level: minimal. Seasonal patterns, best brushes, deshedding tools, and reducing loose fur in your home.
Shedding Level
Malteses have a minimal shedding level. One of the advantages of the Maltese is minimal shedding, making them a better choice for people who prefer a cleaner home.
Weighing around 4-7 lbs and lifespan of 12-15 yrs, the Maltese has specific care needs shaped by its genetics and build. Whether you are researching the Maltese for the first time or deepening your knowledge as a current owner, the breed's toy lineage is the foundation for understanding their needs.
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.
Seasonal Changes
Whether you are researching the Maltese for the first time or deepening your knowledge as a current owner, the breed's toy lineage is the foundation for understanding their needs. 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
Best Brushes & Tools
Knowledge of breed-specific characteristics directly translates to better day-to-day care. The care profile for Malteses is anchored by a small build, minimal coat shedding, and breed-associated risk for luxating patella and dental disease.
Reducing Shed Hair
- Maintain an occasional grooming routine
Furniture & Clothing Protection
When Shedding Indicates Problems
The cost difference between catching a condition early versus treating it at an advanced stage is typically 3-5x, not counting quality-of-life impact. 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. Below is a general framework.
| 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. Catching problems early gives you more treatment options and better odds.
Cost of Maltese Ownership
More Maltese Guides
Find more specific guidance for Maltese health and health and comfort. Establish a consistent routine, use appropriate tools, and watch for skin issues during sessions.