Updated · Published by Radif Partners
Maltese Colors & Coat Guide
All recognized Maltese colors, coat types, genetics, and how color can impact pricing and health.
The Maltese belongs to the Toy group and originates from Malta. Adults typically weigh between 4 and 7 pounds, standing 7 to 9 inches at the shoulder. Life expectancy runs from 12 to 15 years, and the figures on this page describe that range rather than a single average, because the spread is what matters when you are deciding. Running costs settle around $116 a month once the dog is past puppyhood, before insurance and before anything unexpected. These numbers come from published breed standards and, where a standard is silent, from longevity and veterinary studies; they describe the breed as a population and not the dog in front of you. Line, upbringing, early socialisation and simple chance move an individual well away from the typical profile, and two dogs of the same breed often differ more than two dogs of different breeds. Nothing here is a diagnosis: for a specific animal, a veterinary surgeon who has examined it will always know more than a table.
Maltese Colors Overview
The Maltese comes in several recognized coat colors. The Maltese should be pure white, though slight lemon or tan markings on the ears are tolerated. The white color is determined by the extreme white spotting gene on the S locus..
Coat color is determined by genetics, with some colors being dominant and others recessive. Understanding color genetics can help predict puppy colors and identify responsible breeding practices.
All Maltese Colors
The Maltese is recognized in 3 color variations. Standard colors are those accepted by major kennel clubs for conformation showing, while non-standard colors may occur naturally but are not eligible for the show ring. Both standard and non-standard colored Malteses make equally wonderful companions.
Standard vs Non-Standard Maltese Colors
Standard colors (2): White, White and Lemon. These colors are accepted by the AKC and other major kennel clubs for conformation competition. Standard-colored Malteses are typically priced within the normal $1000–$3000 range.
Non-standard colors (1): White and Tan. These colors occur in the breed but are not accepted for conformation showing. Non-standard colors may be priced higher or lower than standard colors depending on demand and breeder practices. Health and temperament are not affected by coat color in most cases.
How Color Affects Maltese Price
| Standard colors | Normal pricing ($1000–$3000) |
| Rare/unusual colors | Premium pricing (+$900–$1500) |
While color can influence the price of a Maltese puppy, prospective owners should prioritize health testing, breeder reputation, and temperament over coat color. A responsibly bred Maltese in a common color with comprehensive health clearances is a better investment than a "rare" colored puppy from untested parents. The base price range for Malteses is $1000–$3000, with color-based premiums adding to that range for certain variations.
Maltese Coat Type and Grooming
The Maltese's long silky coat requires grooming appropriate to its texture and density. With grooming needs rated 5/5 and shedding at 1/5, owners should plan their maintenance routine accordingly.
This breed requires significant coat maintenance. Daily or near-daily brushing prevents matting, distributes natural oils, and keeps the coat healthy. Professional grooming every 4–8 weeks maintains proper coat length and condition. Budget $69–100 per month for grooming expenses, and invest in quality grooming tools including appropriate brushes, combs, and dematting tools.
Regardless of coat color, all Malteses benefit from regular nail trimming every 2–3 weeks, ear cleaning weekly (especially for breeds with floppy ears), and dental care including brushing three or more times per week. These basic grooming tasks prevent common health problems and keep your dog comfortable.
Maltese Coat Genetics
Maltese coat color is controlled by several genes that determine pigment production and distribution. The primary genes include the E (extension) locus, A (agouti) locus, K (dominant black) locus, and B (brown) locus.
DNA color testing is available and can help breeders predict puppy colors and identify carriers of recessive genes. The Maltese should be pure white, though slight lemon or tan markings on the ears are tolerated. The white color is determined by the extreme white spotting gene on the S locus..
Rare vs Standard Maltese Colors
Rarity in Maltese colors typically reflects recessive genetics rather than desirability. The breed offers 3 color varieties, with standard colors including White, White and Lemon. While unusual colors may be visually striking, they sometimes correlate with health concerns or breeding shortcuts.
A reputable Maltese breeder will never compromise health testing (for Patent Ductus Arteriosus and other conditions) to produce trendy colors. Be skeptical of breeders who market 'rare' colors at prices well above the $1000–$3000 standard range.
Do Maltese Colors Change with Age?
Maltese puppies often look quite different from their adult selves. With 3 recognized color varieties, coat color may lighten, darken, or develop new markings during the transition from puppy to adult coat, typically between 4 and 12 months. The Maltese should be pure white, though slight lemon or tan markings on the ears are tolerated. The white color is determined by the extreme white spotting gene on the S locus..
Choosing a Maltese by Color
When selecting a Maltese puppy, coat color is one of the most visible factors, but it should be among the last in your decision-making process. Here is a practical framework for evaluating color alongside more important factors:
- Health testing comes first: Both parents should have documented clearances for breed-relevant conditions including Patent Ductus Arteriosus. No color is worth compromising on health documentation.
- Temperament matters more: Meet the puppies and both parents when possible. A well-socialized puppy with stable temperament from health-tested parents in a common color outweighs a "rare" colored puppy from an unknown background.
- Breeder reputation is essential: Reputable breeders prioritize producing healthy, well-tempered puppies and are transparent about all aspects of their program. They do not market "rare" or "exotic" colors at inflated prices.
- Then consider color: Once health, temperament, and breeder quality are confirmed, choose the color that appeals to you. All 3 recognized Maltese colors can produce healthy, happy companions.
Controversial Colors
When shopping for a Maltese, be skeptical of breeders who advertise unusual colors at prices above $3000. Non-standard colors beyond White, White and Lemon can indicate mixed breeding or genes linked to health issues. The Maltese should be pure white, though slight lemon or tan markings on the ears are tolerated. The white color is determined by the extreme white spotting gene on the S locus..
Frequently Asked Questions
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