Maltais health
Health Guide

Maltais Health Problems & Prevention

Common health issues, symptoms to watch for, and how to keep your Maltais healthy.

Life Expectancy
12-15 years

Common Maltais Health Problems

Based on veterinary research and breed health studies

Maladie parodontale80% prevalence

A health condition that may affect some Maltaiss based on owner reports.

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Behavioral changes
  • Physical discomfort
  • Changes in appetite or activity

Prevention Tips

  • Regular vet checkups
  • Maintain healthy lifestyle
  • Early detection through monitoring
Maladie de la valve mitrale (MVM)28.4% prevalence

A health condition that may affect some Maltaiss based on owner reports.

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Behavioral changes
  • Physical discomfort
  • Changes in appetite or activity

Prevention Tips

  • Regular vet checkups
  • Maintain healthy lifestyle
  • Early detection through monitoring
Luxation rotulienne2.1-5.0% prevalence

A health condition that may affect some Maltaiss based on owner reports.

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Behavioral changes
  • Physical discomfort
  • Changes in appetite or activity

Prevention Tips

  • Regular vet checkups
  • Maintain healthy lifestyle
  • Early detection through monitoring
Shunt portosystémique (shunt hépatique)1.6% prevalence

A health condition that may affect some Maltaiss based on owner reports.

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Behavioral changes
  • Physical discomfort
  • Changes in appetite or activity

Prevention Tips

  • Regular vet checkups
  • Maintain healthy lifestyle
  • Early detection through monitoring
Méningo-encéphalite nécrosante (MEN)Rare but serious prevalence

A health condition that may affect some Maltaiss based on owner reports.

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Behavioral changes
  • Physical discomfort
  • Changes in appetite or activity

Prevention Tips

  • Regular vet checkups
  • Maintain healthy lifestyle
  • Early detection through monitoring

Recommended Genetic Tests

Ask breeders for these health clearances before purchasing a puppy

Certification OFA de la rotule
Certification OFA cardiaque
Test des acides biliaires sériques (dépistage du shunt hépatique)
Reputable breeders should provide documentation for all genetic tests. Never purchase a puppy without seeing health clearances.

Maltaiss may be prone to:

General Health Concerns

Regular vet visits help catch issues early

Maltais Health Timeline

What to focus on at each life stage to keep your Maltais healthy.

Puppy

0-1 year

  • Complete vaccination series
  • Spay/neuter discussion with vet
  • Socialization and training foundation
  • Deworming and parasite prevention
  • Establish dental care routine
Vet Visits:

Every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks, then at 6 and 12 months

Adult

1-7 years

  • Annual wellness exams and vaccinations
  • Dental cleaning as needed
  • Maintain healthy weight
  • Watch for early signs of breed-specific conditions
  • Regular heartworm and flea prevention
Vet Visits:

Annually, more often if concerns arise

Senior

7+ years

  • Bi-annual wellness exams
  • Blood work and organ function screening
  • Joint supplements and pain management
  • Adjust diet for senior needs
  • Watch for common age-related conditions in Maltaiss
Vet Visits:

Every 6 months, with comprehensive bloodwork annually

Questions to Ask Your Vet About Maltaiss

1

What breed-specific health screenings do you recommend?

2

Are there any genetic tests available for common Maltais conditions?

3

What's the ideal weight range for my Maltais?

4

When should we start joint supplements or senior care?

5

What early warning signs should I watch for based on the breed's health profile?

6

Do you recommend pet insurance for Maltaiss?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common health issues in Maltaiss?
Maltaiss are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they may be prone to certain genetic conditions. Regular vet checkups are recommended for early detection.
How long do Maltaiss typically live?
Maltaiss have an average lifespan of 12-15 years. Factors that can extend lifespan include: maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, quality nutrition, preventive healthcare, and addressing breed-specific health concerns early.
Are Maltaiss prone to allergies?
Like many breeds, Maltaiss can develop allergies to food, environmental factors, or medications. Watch for symptoms like itching, digestive issues, or skin problems and consult your vet.
How often should I take my Maltais to the vet?
Puppies: Every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks old for vaccinations. Adults (1-11 years): Annual wellness exams. Seniors (11+ years): Every 6 months with bloodwork. Maltaiss with known health conditions may need more frequent visits.
Should I get pet insurance for my Maltais?
Pet insurance is recommended for all breeds as emergency vet care can cost thousands of dollars. The younger you insure your Maltais, the better the rates and coverage options.

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