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.
Average Lifespan
12–15 years
Size Category
Small
Compared to Average
Average
Maltese Life Expectancy
Living 12–15 years on average, the Maltese's lifespan is average for its size. Maltese typically live 12 to 15 years, with many reaching their late teens. They are a hardy breed despite their delicate appearance..
Key longevity factors include genetics (choose health-tested parents), nutrition (feed a balanced diet), regular exercise, and consistent veterinary care. Weight management alone can add years to a Maltese's life.
Lifespan Range Visualization
Lifespan by Gender
| Male | 12–15 years |
| Female | 12.5–15.5 years |
Factors That Affect Maltese Lifespan
What determines how long your Maltese lives:
- Breeding quality: Parents tested for Patent Ductus Arteriosus and Portosystemic Shunt produce healthier offspring
- Nutrition: Age-appropriate, high-quality food for a small-sized breed
- Activity level: Low to moderate exercise needs. Short daily walks and indoor play sessions are sufficient. They enjoy a good run around the house and are surprisingly playful well into old age.
- Preventive medicine: Vaccinations, parasite control, and breed-specific screenings
- Body condition: Target weight of 4–7 lbs; lean dogs consistently outlive overweight ones
- Mental health: Enrichment suited to their 4/5 intelligence reduces stress-related illness
Tips to Help Your Maltese Live Longer
Your Maltese's longevity starts with daily habits (breed average: 12–15 years):
- Diet: Controlled portions to maintain 4–7 lbs, with attention to fat content given the breed's susceptibility to Patent Ductus Arteriosus
- Exercise: 50+ minutes daily, tailored to age and ability
- Preventive care: Current vaccinations, parasite control, and routine screenings
- Vet visits: Annual for adults, biannual for dogs over 10
- Coat care: Regular maintenance of their long silky coat prevents skin problems
- Mental fitness: Training (trainability 4/5), play, and social interaction
- Vigilance: Don't ignore subtle changes—they may signal treatable conditions
Lifespan Compared to Similar Breeds
| Breed | Lifespan | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Bichon Frise | 14–15 yrs | Small |
| Tibetan Spaniel | 12–15 yrs | Small |
| Japanese Chin | 10–12 yrs | Small |
| Cardigan Welsh Corgi | 12–15 yrs | Small |
| Basenji | 13–14 yrs | Small |
Frequently Asked Questions
The Maltese typically lives 12–15 years, average for small-sized breeds. Maltese typically live 12 to 15 years, with many reaching their late teens. They are a hardy breed despite their delicate appearance..
The top factors: weight management (lean dogs live longer), daily exercise, quality nutrition, preventive veterinary care, and dental hygiene. Maltese typically live 12 to 15 years, with many reaching their late teens. They are a hardy breed despite their delicate appearance..
While specific records vary, some Malteses have lived well beyond their 12–15 year average with exceptional care and favorable genetics. As a small-sized toy breed from Malta, their longevity depends heavily on managing conditions like Patent Ductus Arteriosus. Documented long-lived Malteses share common threads: healthy weight, active lifestyle, and consistent veterinary care.
Gender has minimal impact on Maltese longevity. Both males (4–7 lbs) and females (3–6 lbs) share the same 12–15 year life expectancy. Gentle, playful, and surprisingly spirited, Maltese combine a trusting nature with bold confidence. They are affectionate without being overly dependent and lively without being hyperactive.. Spaying/neutering may modestly extend lifespan by reducing certain cancer risks.
The impact of spaying/neutering on Maltese lifespan is modestly positive overall. Altered dogs avoid reproductive cancers and certain behavioral risks. However, Generally healthy with good longevity, though liver shunts and heart defects are the most serious breed concerns. Tear staining is a common cosmetic issue. that may influence the ideal timing. Smaller breeds like the Maltese can typically be altered at 6–12 months without significant orthopedic concerns.