Maltese Colors & Coat Guide

Maltese Colors Overview

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.. The breed standard defines which colors are acceptable for competition.

Prospective owners should understand that color has no bearing on a dog's temperament or health (with rare exceptions linked to specific color genes). Choose a Maltese based on health, temperament, and breeder quality—not color alone.

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

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

The Maltese's coat color is the product of several interacting 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..

Modern DNA testing panels can identify a dog's genotype at key color loci, allowing breeders to predict puppy colors and avoid producing colors linked to health issues (such as double merle).

Rare vs Standard Maltese Colors

Among Malteses, the standard colors (White, White and Lemon) are most common. Non-standard colors like White and Tan are rarer and may command premium prices above the standard $1000–$3000 range. Buyers should be cautious—extremely rare colors can sometimes be associated with health issues or may indicate crossbreeding.

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..

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.

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