What Is the Life Span of Maltese Dogs?

The Maltese is a toy breed, ideally weighing under 7 lbs., according to the American Kennel Club breed standard. Although it is a relatively healthy, long-lived dog, the Maltese is prone to some conditions that can shorten its life span. Choosing a healthy Maltese and providing premium nutrition and routine veterinary care will help a Maltese live a long, healthy life.

  1. Life Span

    • Cathy Brown, in an article for Northcentral Maltese Rescue, Inc., writes that a healthy Maltese can live for 12 to 17 years. The American Maltese Association agrees, saying the Maltese is "basically a healthy dog and can live 12 or more years."

    Purchasing a Puppy

    • The first step to purchasing a purebred Maltese is choosing a breeder who tests both sire and dam for breed-specific heritable diseases and only breeds healthy, long-lived adult dogs. The American Maltese Association recommends only purchasing puppies at 12 weeks or older because the stress of relocating them earlier can trigger a lifetime of hypoglycemia. Purchase a healthy puppy who has been wormed, checked by a veterinarian and vaccinated at least once with core vaccinations for distemper, parvovirus and hepatitis.

    Types

    • Puppies from ethical breeders are typically sold as either "pet" or "show" quality. Pet quality puppies usually have a minor cosmetic fault that would disqualify them from the show ring. These include incorrect proportions, lack of scissors bite, brown or tan markings or a slightly curly coat. "Faults" like these don't affect the health or potential life span of a Maltese puppy.

    Considerations

    • Feed a Maltese a high-quality diet, avoiding generic or budget-priced food. Not only is good nutrition better for the dog's health, it will promote a shinier coat, healthier skin and less tear-staining. The Maltese should be taken to the vet annually for a wellness check and kept current on vaccinations and preventatives recommended for the dog's risk level. For instance, if you live in a warm, humid climate, keep it on heartworm preventative year-round.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Like many toy breeds, dental problems are common in the Maltese. A dental checkup should be included in visits to the veterinarian. Brush its teeth regularly and give it healthful doggie chews to keep the teeth and gums clean. Periodontal problems cause more than brown teeth and bad breath. Bacteria from an infected mouth enters the blood stream, damaging the heart and other organs, causing disease and even premature death.