Buyer question
Is a Maltese good for beginners?
Yes: our Animal Library rates the Maltese 4 out of 5 for beginners (easy with patience).
Source: the Maltese page in the Everybarn Animal Library. Maltese in the Animal Library
The detail
An ancient Mediterranean lapdog kept by nobility for thousands of years, the Maltese is gentle, playful and fearless for its size. Its white silky coat sheds little but needs daily care or a practical short clip.
- Temperament
- Gentle, playful, loving
- Best fit
- Adults, apartments, seniors
- Trainability
- 3 out of 5 (Willing, slow potty train)
- Energy
- 2 out of 5 (Short walks, indoor play)
- Grooming load
- 4 out of 5 (Daily brush or short clip)
What to weigh
Maltese are fragile around small children, can be barky and slow to house-train, and tear staining and dental disease are common. They dislike long periods alone.