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White Maltese dog laying on a beige bed next to a rainbow colored rope knot dog toy image

Maltese puppies and dogs

If you're looking for a Maltese, Adopt a Pet can help you find one near you. Use the search tool below and browse adoptable Malteses!

  • Ashburn, VA
  • Ashburn, VA

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What is a Maltese?

Maltese traits

Toy
8-10 inches
4-7 pounds
12-15 years
Maltese characteristics
Lifespan
5 yrs 20 yrs
Grooming needs
Occasionally Frequently
Good with kids
Needs lots of supervision Ready to play
Good with cats
Likely to chase Hey, new pal!
Training aptitude
Headstrong Eager to please
Full-grown size
Teeny Tiny Super size
Maltese adoption

Find a Maltese Near You

Special Needs
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Photo of Skylar

Skylar

Maltese

Female, 8 yrs 9 mos
los angeles, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Needs special attention, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Skylar is the absolute sweetest angel you'll ever meet! Pure love! She lights up the room. Great with kids and dogs and probably cats because she's so incredibly loving:) ##1673355##
Photo of Jef

Jef

Maltese Poodle (Toy or Tea Cup)

Male, 10 yrs 4 mos
Los Angeles, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Jef was dumped at South Los Angeles Animal Shelter. He couldn’t walk, his nails were overgrown, his ears were infected and sealed shut from dirt and wax, his eyes were also infected with ocular discharge, he had missing and infected teeth, foxtails in his feet, he was covered with his own urine and feces, he was malnourished, shaking, and dehydrated. Despite all of this, he was very sweet and friendly to everyone at the shelter. The shelter listed him as a code orange, but he was pulled on Saturday, July 22nd and was taken straight to Sherman Oaks Veterinary Group. He needed 5 baths to get clean, has had X-rays, bloodwork, and a full examination. He is now walking, eating well, and has regained some of his hearing and sight. He will need ongoing medication for his back and joints, and some dental care. He is approximately 10 years old, 8 lbs, neutered, now microchipped, and is likely a Maltese-Poodle mix. Despite the horrific life and abuse he has suffered, he is very trusting of people and is very grateful towards everyone who is helping him. In just 24 hours he is truly on the road to recovery!
Photo of Hewitt - IN LA!!

Hewitt - IN LA!!

Maltese Poodle (Miniature)

Female, 5 yrs 3 mos
Los Angeles, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Hi! My name is Hewitt, and I am IN SOUTH KOREA waiting to be matched to a home in Los Angeles! I was rescued from the dog meat trade in South Korea by the DoVE Project. My fate would have been to live in fear and distress, watching dogs being led to slaughter for human consumption. DoVE Project heard about me, and now I am looking for my forever family! ID/NAME: DV23-009 / Hewitt SEX/WEIGHT/AGE: Female / 4.7 lbs / 5 yrs BIRTH DATE: August 1, 2018 BREED: Maltese Poodle mix: Vaccinations complete. Spayed. HEALTH: -Repaired grade 3 luxated patella (left side). -Bladder stone was removed BEHAVIOR: Very friendly, good with dogs and people. Hewitt has a habit of running/walking in circles. We are not sure why. Hewitt will bark when she wants attention. Hewitt doesn’t show any other behavioral issues such as biting, food guarding, or separation anxiety. SIBLINGS/FAMILY: UNK BACKGROUND: Rescued in July 2023 from a slaughterhouse in Namyangju. ABOUT SHELTER STRESS Dogs who have lived in shelters for a long period of time develop behaviors due to an environment that is loud, chaotic, and stressful, even in best shelters in the US. Dogs in shelters have limited socialization exposure to people and urban environments. DoVE dogs also come from a traumatic background such as dog meat farms and slaughterhouses. While many of our dogs acclimate within a few months with consistency, structure, and patience, some of our more sensitive dogs can take longer to rehabilitate. It's important to note that these sensitive dogs are even more attuned to human emotions and behavior, making for a deeper connection human-dog connection. DoVE Project is committed to helping our adopters desensitize and socialize our dog meat trade survivors. ********************************* DoVE Project operates a shelter in South Korea, where our dogs stay until they are matched with an adopter. In the US, our dogs stay in foster homes or in boarding, as we do not have a physical facility. These dogs are identified with "in LA" in their names. Please note that we only adopt our pups in the Southern California area. Please check our website for more information regarding our adoption process, our mission, and adoption application: https://www.dove-project.org/adoption-process If you are interested in adopting, please complete an online application at: https://www.dove-project.org/adoption-application-form.
Photo of Jennifer

Jennifer

Maltese Poodle (Miniature)

Female, 5 yrs 3 mos
Los Angeles, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Hi! My name is Jennifer, and I am IN SOUTH KOREA waiting to be matched to a home in Los Angeles! I was rescued from the dog meat trade in South Korea by the DoVE Project. My fate would have been to live in fear and distress, watching dogs being led to slaughter for human consumption. DoVE Project heard about me, and now I am looking for my forever family! ID/NAME: CARE23-042 / Jennifer SEX/WEIGHT/AGE: Female / 7.3 lbs / 5 yrs BIRTH DATE: August 1, 2018 BREED: Maltese poodle mix VACCINATIONS/SPAY/NEUTER/HEALTH: Vaccinations complete. Spayed. Jennifer has watery eyes and needs to have them cleaned daily. BEHAVIOR: Sweet and tiny poodle Jennifer, has a very kind personality. Jennifer likes to interact with people and follow them around. When Jennifer joined the playground with the other dogs for the first time, she was timid and she looked for safety among her caretakers. Jennifer overcame her fears within a day or two and now she plays well with all other dogs, she especially enjoys running. Jennifer tends to test the holes in fences. She comes back when called but extra care should be taken to make sure she is in a secure area. Jennifer has not been in foster home yet but always goes potty outside and keeps her kennel clean. She doesn't show any behavioral issues. SIBLINGS/FAMILY: Unknown BACKGROUND: Rescued from a slaughterhouse in Namyangju, South Korea. ABOUT SHELTER STRESS Dogs who have lived in shelters for a long period of time develop behaviors due to an environment that is loud, chaotic, and stressful, even in the best shelters in the US. Dogs in shelters have limited socialization exposure to people and urban environments. DoVE dogs also come from a traumatic background such as dog meat farms and slaughterhouses. While many of our dogs acclimate within a few months with consistency, structure, and patience, some of our more sensitive dogs can take longer to rehabilitate. It's important to note that these sensitive dogs are even more attuned to human emotions and behavior, making for a deeper connection human-dog connection. DoVE Project is committed to helping our adopters desensitize and socialize our dog meat trade survivors. ********************************* DoVE Project operates a shelter in South Korea, where our dogs stay until they are matched with an adopter. In the US, our dogs stay in foster homes or in boarding, as we do not have a physical facility. These dogs are identified with "in LA" in their names. Please note that we only adopt our pups in the Southern California area. Please check our website for more information regarding our adoption process, our mission, and adoption application: https://www.dove-project.org/adoption-process If you are interested in adopting, please complete an online application at: https://www.dove-project.org/adoption-application-form.
Photo of Albert

Albert

Maltese

Male, Adult
Studio City, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Albert is 1-year-old Maltese that loves to play with your socks and his plush toys. He is very people orientated, loves to cuddle and although he likes kisses, he'll definitely let you know once he's had enough smooches. He still has some serious puppy energy and can get a little mouthy when overstimulated so he needs someone to continue his training so that he can grow up to be a good canine citizen. He will be a marvelous companion and a faithful friend. Take this smart, loving and loyal dog home and you will have a wonderful life. --- If you are interested in adopting ALBERT please fill out our adoption application by clicking this LINK. Applications are required PRIOR to meeting one of our animals and are used to set up a safe and successful adoption. Please don't be shy and answer the questions thoroughly. To learn more about our entire process please visit www.therescuetrain.org and click on the "Adopt A Dog" page. PLEASE NOTE: WE DO NOT OWN A FACILITY. Our animals are in private foster homes. If you are interested in adopting one of our animals please fill out our online application. Or check our mobile adoption schedule on our home page. *APPLICANT MUST BE AT LEAST 21 YEARS OLD* *APPLICANT MUST LIVE IN THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES* INTERESTED IN ADOPTING? PLEASE FILL OUT AN ADOPTION APPLICATION ON OUR WEBSITE: www.therescuetrain.org
Photo of Marty

Marty

Maltese Poodle (Miniature)

Male, 10 yrs 1 mo
Los Angeles, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Good with cats, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Hi, I'm Marty... a 10 to 12 year old poodle mix just waiting for my special someone who will love me forever. I am very chill and will do best in a low-key home where I have a routine to rely upon. My schedule is important and consists of a leisurely morning walk around the block for 20 to 30 minutes. I especially love when I see other dogs for a meet-and-greet and get to say hi to their people. Then it's time for breakfast and I must admit to being an extremely picky eater, but I did finally find a food I absolutely love, which my foster mum can tell you all about so it stays the same. I'm pretty lucky because I get to go to work with my foster mum everyday. At first, my biggest hurdle was riding in the car, but now I do really well in my car seat while clipped into the seatbelt for safety. I'm a model employee 99.9% of the time... that 0.1% challenge is when I'm left alone and get anxious, especially being able to see everyone through the glass windows and not being able to get to them. Although because of my superior manners, my office friends let me wander around to say hello and then after that I'm very much ready to nap in my bed. I would LOVE to have one or even two dog siblings and then I bet I wouldn't be as nervous being on my own because I would have them to keep me company. I don't mind cats either, but having dog siblings would be PAWSitively wonderful! I have been left on my own for up to five hours on occasion and have done ok. I'm used to going on another short walk during the day followed by an evening stroll around the block, which I very much look forward to... you'll be able to tell when I get bubbly and start prancing around since I'll know when it's time to go based on my routine. I'll show you when I want attention by gently putting my nose to your leg, one of my most endearing qualities says my foster mum and friends. In addition to being well-mannered, I'm also potty-trained, and know "sit". I have a fairly clean bill of health for a senior buddy... I get around fine but have some cloudiness in one of my eyes and can be a bit hard of hearing, although I must admit it is sometimes selective. I take a daily cosequin vitamin and gabapentin for weak hindlegs which have gotten much stronger since having a stable diet and exercise. If qualities like "sweet", "kind", "friendly", and "chill" match what you are looking for, then I definitely think we should meet! If you live in the Los Angeles Metropolitan area and would like to meet Marty, please complete our online Adoption Application and we will be in touch. **Please Note: We only adopt within LA County and you must be at least 25-years-old.** Adoption Application: https://www.beoplesbuddies.org/adoption-application Visit our website to learn more about our foster-to-adopt process: https://www.beoplesbuddies.org/adoption-process Please no calls. If you have a specific question not already answered on our website, please email us at beoplesbuddies@gmail.com
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Maltese information
Frequently asked questions

Maltese Basics

Learn about about Maltese basics like where Maltese come from, how many different types of Maltese you can find, and what other breeds mix with Maltese.

Maltese live between 12 to 15 years. With proper care, adequate nutrition, regular exercise, and routine veterinary check-ups, some Maltese dogs can live even longer. Their longevity is a reflection of their small size and robust health, although individual factors, such as genetics and overall care, can influence their lifespan.

Yes, Maltese can be service dogs. Their small size and warm-hearted demeanor can make them effective emotional support animals or therapy dogs, provided they meet the necessary training and temperament requirements. However, they are less commonly seen in service dog roles compared to other breeds, as their size may limit their ability to perform certain physical tasks.

No, a Maltese is not a terrier. Maltese dogs belong to the toy group of dog breeds, known for their small size, graceful appearance, and affectionate temperament. Terriers, on the other hand, are a distinct group of breeds known for their tenacity and hunting abilities.

A Maltese is a small breed of dog known for their long, silky white coat and gentle and affectionate nature. They have a lively and playful temperament and are well-suited for both families and individuals.

Maltese were bred for companionship. Their history dates back over two millennia, and they were favored by ancient aristocrats, including the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians, who treasured them as charming and loyal lapdogs. Maltese dogs were not bred for specific working purposes, but rather for their elegant appearance, gentle temperament, and devoted nature.

Maltese stop growing around 12 months of age, although they might continue filling out and developing muscle mass until they’re 18 months to 2 years old. While their growth in terms of height stabilizes relatively early, their physical and behavioral development continues for a bit longer. Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and attention to their specific health needs during this growth phase are essential to ensure they become healthy and well-proportioned adults.

Yes, Maltese dogs are often considered hypoallergenic because they produce fewer allergenic proteins found in their dander, saliva, and urine compared to some other breeds. This can make them a more suitable choice for individuals with allergies, although no dog breed is entirely hypoallergenic. People with allergies should spend time with Maltese to assess their personal tolerance and consider the dog’s grooming and care needs to minimize allergen exposure.

Dog breeds that mix with the Maltese include the Poodle (Maltipoo), Yorkshire Terrier (Morkie), Shih Tzu (Malshi), and Chihuahua (Malchi). These mixed breed combinations often result in dogs with a range of appearances and temperaments, influenced by the traits of both parent breeds.

Maltipoos can be better than Maltese in some ways, as they are a mixed breed that inherits qualities from both parent breeds. They can be hypoallergenic, have a wavy coat, and have a variety of coat colors, like Poodles do. Maltese dogs, on the other hand, are a pure breed known for their solid white coat and loving temperament. 


The decision between a Maltese and a Maltipoo comes down to factors like the specific traits you desire, grooming requirements, and the characteristics that best align with your living situation and family.

There is one type of Maltese dog recognized by breed standards. While variations in coat texture or color may occur in individual Maltese dogs, these are not considered distinct types within the breed. The breed standard emphasizes specific traits like coat quality, size, and overall appearance, which are consistent among Maltese dogs.

Maltese Appearance

Learn about about the Maltese general appearance like their size, colors, and grooming needs.

Yes, all Maltese are white, but they can occasionally have shades of light tan or lemon on their ears or around their eyes. These variations in color are often considered "off-white" or "ivory." However, for purebred Maltese dogs, the vast majority of their coat should be a beautiful, silky white, and the presence of any significant color other than white is considered a deviation from the breed standard.


Maltese weigh between four to seven pounds and stand about seven to nine inches in height at the shoulder. Their compact size and light frame make them a portable and charming companion, well-suited for indoor living, and easy to carry around.

No, Maltese do not shed. While they don't shed in the traditional sense, their hair can break and become trapped in their coat, which may require regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain their silky appearance. 


Maltese are one of the few breeds that boast a hair-type coat instead of a fur-type coat. Their hair-like fur is one of the main reasons Maltese shed so little. Hair has a longer growth cycle than fur, so it takes longer to grow, die, and eventually fall out. Maltese have a single coat so they do not experience heavier seasonal shedding.

A Maltese is a small dog, with a long, silky white coat that flows to the ground (you’ll often see it tied up in a topknot to keep it out of their eyes). Their expressive dark eyes and black nose are set against their white fur, giving them a sweet puppy-dog look. Maltese dogs have a compact, well-proportioned body, a plume-like tail that arches over their back, and feathering on their ears.

Maltese dogs have hair rather than fur. Their coat is unique, consisting of long, silky hair, and it doesn’t have the undercoat typical of many other breeds with fur. This distinction contributes to their reputation as a low-shedding and often hypoallergenic breed. The long hair, which can grow quite lengthy, requires regular grooming and care to maintain its elegant appearance and prevent matting.

Maltese Temperament

Learn about about the Maltese temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Yes, Maltese tend to bark a lot, as they are alert and protective by nature. Their small size and energetic temperament can make them reactive to changes in their environment. While their barking can be seen as a way of alerting their pet parents to potential threats or unfamiliar situations, it’s important to provide your Maltese with consistent training and socialization to manage their barking tendencies.

Yes, Maltese are considered good dogs with an affectionate nature and lively temperament. Their small size and adaptability to various living environments, including apartments, add to their appeal. When properly cared for, they can be loving, loyal, and well-behaved pets, making them a great choice for those seeking a devoted four-legged family member.

Yes, Maltese dogs are easy to train. While they are intelligent and can be trained effectively, they may display some independent tendencies that can present training challenges. Their affectionate and eager-to-please nature makes them responsive to positive reinforcement techniques. Early training and socialization are crucial to mold a well-behaved Maltese.

Yes, Maltese dogs are smart. They may be small, but their intelligence is notable. They can quickly learn commands and respond well to training, making them capable of a wide variety of tricks and tasks. 

Yes, Maltese dogs are good with cats. While their gentle, loving nature can promote positive interactions, Maltese have a territorial disposition, which may require supervision and gradual introductions to ensure the comfort and safety of both the cat and the dog. Creating a good relationship between a Maltese and a cat involves monitoring their interactions, facilitating positive encounters, and recognizing and respecting the unique personalities of both pets.

Yes, Maltese dogs are good with kids when they are well-socialized and accustomed to children from a young age. Their gentle and affectionate nature makes them potential playmates and companions for kids. However, due to their small size and delicate frame, it’s crucial to teach children how to interact with the dog respectfully and gently, minimizing the risk of accidental harm.


As with any breed, it is recommended that your child is always supervised when interacting with your Maltese to keep both the child and dog safe.

Yes, Maltese can swim, but their small size and light build can make swimming more challenging compared to larger, more water-oriented breeds. It’s important to introduce them to water gradually and ensure they wear a well-fitting canine life jacket for safety. While some Maltese may take to water naturally, others may need more time and encouragement to feel comfortable swimming. Supervision is essential, especially around pools or other bodies of water, to prevent accidents and ensure their safety while enjoying the water.

Maltese Health

Learn about about the Maltese health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Yes, Maltese dogs require regular grooming to maintain their distinctive long, silky coat. Their hair can grow quite long, which can lead to matting and tangling if not cared for properly. Regular brushing, ideally on a daily basis, is necessary to prevent tangles and keep their coat in good condition. Many Maltese parents choose to keep their dog’s coat trimmed short for easier maintenance. In addition to brushing, regular baths, ear cleaning, and nail trimming should also be part of their grooming routine. Professional grooming may be needed periodically to ensure their coat remains healthy and free from mats.

Yes, Maltese have health problems they’re more prone to, including: 


  1. Patellar luxation: Also known as slipped kneecaps, this is a common problem in many dog breeds. Patellar luxation is when slight abnormalities cause the knee joint to slide in and out of place. This can cause pain and occasional lameness. Surgical treatment is available for severe cases, although many dogs lead normal lives without treatment.

  2. White Dog Shaker Syndrome: The Maltese is more prone than other dogs to White Dog Shaker Syndrome, an autoimmune disorder causing full-body tremors. Episodes usually begin at a young age (under three) and are brought on by stress or over-excitement. This condition isn't painful and won't affect your dog’s personality.

  3. Portosystemic Liver Shunt: Portosystemic shunt (PSS) is a hereditary issue that obstructs proper blood flow to the liver. Since the liver is responsible for detoxifying the body, PSS sends the toxins in unfiltered blood to the heart, brain, and other body parts. Signs can include but are not limited to behavioral changes, loss of appetite, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), jaundice, urinary tract problems, vision problems, and stunted growth. PSS can be life-threatening if not treated early. Antibiotics and diet changes can help in the short term, but surgery is the only permanent treatment for the problem.

  4. Progressive Retinal Atrophy: (PRA) is a group of genetic diseases that affect the retina. They are progressive degenerative diseases and will eventually cause blindness in both eyes. There is no effective treatment to stop PRA.

  5. Others: Maltese can also be prone to hypoglycemia, thyroid disorders, collapsed trachea, asthma, eye problems such as cataracts and corneal ulcers, and dental issues. To identify some of these issues, a veterinarian may recommend hip, eye, and imaging tests for your Maltese.


Adopting a Maltese

Learn about about acquiring a Maltese – the pros and cons of adopting versus going through a breeder, and associated costs.

The cost to adopt a Maltese is around $300 in order to cover the expenses of caring for the dog before adoption. In contrast, buying a Maltese from a breeder can be much more expensive. Depending on their breeding, they usually cost anywhere from $1,000-$4,000.