Maltese Weight & Growth Chart

Complete weight guide with growth charts for male and female Malteses from puppy to adult.

Male Adult Weight

4–7 lbs

Female Adult Weight

3–6 lbs

Maltese Weight Overview

Adult Malteses typically weigh between 4 and 7 pounds, with males generally being larger than females. Males average 4–7 lbs while females typically weigh 3–6 lbs.

Adults typically weigh 4 to 7 pounds, with the AKC standard preferring 4 to 6 pounds. Despite their dainty appearance, they are surprisingly sturdy for their size..

Growth Chart

When Does a Maltese Stop Growing?

Most Malteses reach adult height of 7–9 inches by 12–15 months, with full body weight of 4–7 lbs achieved shortly after. Males fill out to 7 lbs while females reach 6 lbs.

Growth rate is influenced by genetics, diet quality, and spay/neuter timing. 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..

Is My Maltese Overweight?

Assessing your Maltese's body condition (healthy range: 4–7 lbs):

Rib check: Run your hands along the ribcage—you should feel individual ribs under a slight fat layer
Overhead view: A defined waist should be visible between ribs and hips
Side profile: The abdomen should tuck upward behind the last rib

Overweight Malteses face higher risks of Patent Ductus Arteriosus, joint problems, and shortened lifespan. Even for a small-sized breed, excess weight significantly impacts joint health and overall wellbeing. Work with your vet to adjust feeding and exercise if needed.

Feeding Recommendation

Feed an adult Maltese approximately 0.5–0.1 cups of quality kibble daily, split into two meals. Males (4–7 lbs) may need slightly more than females (3–6 lbs). Adults typically weigh 4 to 7 pounds, with the AKC standard preferring 4 to 6 pounds. Despite their dainty appearance, they are surprisingly sturdy for their size.. With moderate energy (3/5), portions at the middle of guidelines usually suffice.

Weight by Age Table

Age	Male (lbs)	Female (lbs)
3 months	1.6–1.9	1.3–1.6
6 months	3.5–4.2	2.9–3.6
9 months	5.0–6.2	4.3–5.3
12 months	6.3–7.7	5.3–6.6

Frequently Asked Questions

Adult Malteses weigh 4–7 lbs (males: 4–7 lbs; females: 3–6 lbs). Adults typically weigh 4 to 7 pounds, with the AKC standard preferring 4 to 6 pounds. Despite their dainty appearance, they are surprisingly sturdy for their size..

Height plateaus around 12–15 months for the Maltese, with males reaching 7 lbs and females 6 lbs at maturity. As a toy breed originally from Malta, they were bred for a compact, sturdy build.

For a Maltese at healthy weight (4–7 lbs), you should feel ribs without pressing hard, see a defined waist from above, and notice an abdominal tuck from the side. Even modest excess weight stresses this small-sized breed's frame and can worsen conditions like Patent Ductus Arteriosus.

A Maltese puppy growing toward 4–7 lbs needs carefully measured portions. Feed 3–4 times daily until 6 months, then twice daily. With moderate energy levels (3/5), avoid overfeeding to prevent excess weight gain. Monitor body condition weekly and adjust as needed.

A Maltese puppy not gaining weight needs veterinary attention. Expected growth milestones lead to an adult weight of 4–7 lbs (males 4–7, females 3–6). Possible causes: parasites, insufficient calorie density in food, stress, or underlying conditions. Ensure the puppy is eating without competition from littermates or other pets.