Updated · Published by Radif Partners
Maltese Lifespan: How Long Do They Live?
Everything you need to know about the Maltese's life expectancy, factors that affect longevity, and tips to help your dog live a longer, healthier life.
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 Life Expectancy
The Maltese has an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, which is average for dogs of their size category. Maltese typically live 12 to 15 years, with many reaching their late teens. They are a hardy breed despite their delicate appearance..
Several factors influence an individual Maltese's lifespan, including genetics, diet, exercise, veterinary care, and overall lifestyle. Dogs from health-tested parents who receive consistent preventive care tend to live the longest.
Lifespan Range Visualization
Maltese Lifespan by Gender
| Male | 12–15 years |
| Female | 12.5–15.5 years |
Gender differences in Maltese lifespan are generally modest. Both male and female Malteses benefit equally from quality nutrition, regular exercise, and consistent veterinary care. Spaying and neutering timing can influence longevity, and your veterinarian can recommend the optimal age based on your dog's individual health profile and the latest research for small breeds.
Factors That Affect Maltese Lifespan
Key factors that affect Maltese lifespan (12–15 years) include:
- Genetics: Dogs from parents tested for Patent Ductus Arteriosus and other conditions have better odds of a long life
- Diet: A balanced diet maintaining 4–7 lbs
- Exercise: 50+ minutes daily maintains cardiovascular health and healthy weight
- Veterinary care: Annual checkups with biannual visits after age 10 catch issues early
- Weight management: Keeping your Maltese lean can add 1-2 years to their life
- Coat care: Regular maintenance of their long silky coat prevents skin issues that can impact overall health
Tips to Help Your Maltese Live Longer
Practical steps to extend your Maltese's life beyond the 12–15 year average:
- Measure food precisely, keep weight within 4–7 lbs
- Commit to 50+ minutes of daily activity suited to this toy breed
- Stay current on vaccinations and parasite control
- Book veterinary wellness exams annually (biannually after age 10)
- Monitor for early signs of Patent Ductus Arteriosus and Portosystemic Shunt
- Provide enrichment through training sessions, food puzzles, and play
- Don't delay vet visits when something seems off
Maltese Life Stages and Aging
Understanding how the Maltese ages helps owners provide stage-appropriate care that maximizes both quality and length of life. As a small-sized breed, the Maltese progresses through life stages at a slower rate than larger breeds, often maintaining youthful energy and vitality well into what would be old age for bigger dogs.
Puppy stage (0–12 months): The foundation for a long, healthy life is laid during puppyhood. Proper nutrition formulated for small-breed growth, timely vaccinations, early socialization, and appropriate exercise all contribute to lifelong health. This is the ideal time to establish a veterinary relationship and baseline health records.
Adult stage (1–7 years): The Maltese's prime years are characterized by stable energy, established temperament, and relatively low health risks when preventive care is maintained. Annual veterinary checkups, consistent exercise, dental care, and weight management at 4–7 lbs are the pillars of care during this stage.
Senior stage (7+ years): As the Maltese enters the senior phase, increase veterinary visits to twice yearly. Watch for signs of age-related conditions including joint stiffness, vision or hearing changes, cognitive decline, and changes in appetite or energy. Adapt exercise to lower-impact activities, consider joint supplements, and adjust diet to senior-appropriate formulations.
Common Causes of Death in Malteses
Understanding the leading causes of death in the Maltese helps owners focus preventive efforts where they matter most. While individual outcomes vary, research and breed health surveys identify consistent patterns.
The breed's known health predispositions, including Patent Ductus Arteriosus, Portosystemic Shunt, White Dog Shaker Syndrome, contribute to mortality rates. Proactive screening for these conditions, particularly in the breed's later years, can detect problems early when treatment is most effective.
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death across all dog breeds. Regular veterinary examinations that include palpation of lymph nodes and discussion of any lumps or behavioral changes help catch malignancies early. Maintaining a healthy weight throughout life reduces cancer risk, as does limiting exposure to environmental toxins.
Accidents and trauma are preventable causes of premature death. Keep your Maltese on a leash or in a securely fenced area, ensure identification through microchipping and collar tags, and pet-proof your home and yard to eliminate hazards.
Maltese Lifespan Compared to Similar Breeds
Comparing the Maltese's 12–15 year lifespan to similar breeds provides useful context for prospective owners evaluating longevity as a factor in their breed decision.
| Breed | Lifespan | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Maltese | 12–15 yrs | Small |
| Russian Toy | 12–14 yrs | Small |
| Dandie Dinmont Terrier | 12–15 yrs | Small |
| Skye Terrier | 12–14 yrs | Small |
| Australian Terrier | 11–15 yrs | Small |
| West Highland White Terrier | 13–15 yrs | Small |
Frequently Asked Questions
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