Maltese health guide
Also known as: Maltese Terrier
About this breed
The Maltese is a gentle, silky-coated lap dog whose small size hides a surprisingly hardy constitution. Teeth, knees, tear staining and, in some lines, heart valves and liver shunts are the key health checkpoints.
Living in Macau's climate
The long silky coat tangles quickly in humid air; a shorter pet clip through summer keeps the skin cool and manageable. Dry the face and beard after drinking and walks, as constant dampness worsens tear staining and skin irritation.
Common health conditions
Dental disease
Signs: Bad breath, tartar, loose teeth and chewing on one side.
Prevention: Daily brushing and scheduled professional cleaning; Maltese are among the most dental-prone of all breeds.
Patellar luxation
Signs: Skipping steps on a hind leg, usually brief and painless at first.
Prevention: Lean weight, ramps for furniture and yearly knee grading.
Mitral valve heart disease
Signs: A murmur at check-up, then night coughing and reduced stamina in seniors.
Prevention: Yearly heart auscultation from age 6; early medication meaningfully extends comfortable life.
Portosystemic (liver) shunt
Signs: Poor growth, vacant staring or wobbliness after meals in young dogs.
Prevention: Cannot be prevented but is treatable; ask for a bile-acid blood test if a puppy seems small or slow.
Daily care tips
- Brush teeth daily; consider it as essential as feeding.
- Wash and dry the face daily to control tear staining.
- Keep a short, practical clip in the humid months.
- Watch young puppies for poor growth and ask about liver screening early.
Screening schedule
8 to 16 weeks
Vaccination course with growth, knee and heart checks.
1 to 6 years
Annual exam with dental scoring and knee grading.
7 years and up
Twice-yearly senior checks with blood work and murmur monitoring.
Book a breed-savvy check-up
Our vets see Maltese patients every week and know exactly what to screen for. Call +853 6677 6611 or book online.
Book a check-upRelated breeds
This guide is general information for the breed as a whole and does not replace an examination of your individual pet. When in doubt, always call the clinic.
Reviewed by the Royal Veterinary Center veterinary team.