Maltese
This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.
Evidence-based guide to the best dog food for Malteses based on their small size, moderate energy level, and health needs including luxating patella.
Nutritional Needs of Malteses
As a small toy breed with moderate energy levels, the Maltese has specific nutritional requirements that differ from other dogs. Understanding these needs is key to keeping your Maltese healthy throughout their 12-15 yrs lifespan.
Malteses typically weigh 4-7 lbs and need approximately 400–800 calories per day, depending on age, activity level, and metabolism. With moderate energy levels, most Malteses do well on standard feeding guidelines for their size.
Known Health Risks: Genetic screening data shows Malteses have elevated rates of luxating patella, dental disease, collapsed trachea. Breed-level risk is population-level information; individual outcomes vary widely. The practical payoff of breed-aware veterinary care is earlier detection in the cases where risk does materialize.
Daily Feeding Guidelines
| Life Stage | Daily Amount | Meals Per Day | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puppy (2-6 months) | 0.5-1 cup | 3-4 | 200-500 |
| Puppy (6-12 months) | 0.5-1.5 cups | 2-3 | 300-600 |
| Adult | 0.5–1.5 cups | 2 | 400–800 |
| Senior (7+ years) | 0.5-1 cup | 2 | 300-600 |
Health-Specific Diet Considerations
Malteses are prone to several health conditions that can be managed or prevented through proper nutrition.
- Collapsed Trachea: Look for foods with nutrients that support collapsed trachea management
Best Protein Sources for Malteses
- Chicken and turkey: Lean, easily digestible proteins ideal for most Malteses
Foods to Avoid
Never feed your Maltese these dangerous foods.
- Macadamia nuts and alcohol
- Cooked bones (splintering risk)
Supplements Worth Considering
Based on Maltese-specific health concerns, these supplements may benefit your dog.
- Glucosamine: Supports joint health as your Maltese ages
Wet Food vs Dry Food for Malteses
Both wet and dry food have advantages for Malteses.
- Mixed feeding: Many Maltese owners find success combining both for balanced nutrition and variety
Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Common feeding errors that Maltese owners make include:
- Overuse of treats: Treats should make up no more than 10% of your Maltese's daily caloric intake. Many training treats are high in calories, so adjust meal portions accordingly.
- Ignoring body condition: Use the body condition score (BCS) system to assess your Maltese's weight rather than relying solely on scale numbers. You should be able to feel the ribs without pressing hard.
Age-Specific Nutrition Considerations
Your Maltese's nutritional needs change significantly throughout their life.
Adult stage (1-7 years): Maintain a consistent feeding routine with measured portions. Monitor weight monthly and adjust food amounts based on activity level, seasonal changes, and body condition. Adult Malteses benefit from a protein content of 22-30%.
Senior stage (7+ years): Older Malteses may need fewer calories but higher-quality protein to maintain muscle mass. Senior formulas often include joint-supporting nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin, plus antioxidants for cognitive health. Watch for changes in appetite.
More Maltese Guides
Explore related topics for Maltese ownership.
- Maltese Pet Insurance Cost
- How to Train a Maltese
- Maltese Grooming Guide
- Maltese Health Issues
- Maltese Temperament & Personality
- Maltese Exercise Needs
- Maltese Cost of Ownership
- Adopt a Maltese
Common Questions
How much should I feed my Maltese?
Adult Malteses typically need 0.5–1.5 cups of high-quality food per day, split into two meals. Adjust based on your dog's activity level, age, and body condition score.
What is the best food brand for Malteses?
Look for foods that list real meat as the first ingredient, meet AAFCO standards, and address Maltese-specific health needs like luxating patella. Brands offering small breed-specific formulas are often a good choice.
Should I feed my Maltese grain-free food?
A liver shunt in a Maltese is managed with a veterinary liver diet and, when chosen, surgery. Dental disease is the other common problem. Grain-free food is not that liver diet. Use the diet the veterinarian prescribes, and brush the teeth between dental procedures. A grain allergy is uncommon in Maltese and is a separate clinic diagnosis.
Got a Specific Question?
Portosystemic shunts, patellar luxation, and tracheal collapse are the three to know by name.
Dental extractions are nearly a rite of passage if the mouth is ignored until age six.
A honking cough on a walk is worth a visit before it becomes a crisis, and the checker helps you sort the night.