Maltese health
Health Guide

Maltese Health Problems & Prevention

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

Life Expectancy
12-15 years

Common Maltese Health Problems

Based on veterinary research and breed health studies

Periodontal Disease80% prevalence

A health condition that may affect some Malteses 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
Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)28.4% prevalence

A health condition that may affect some Malteses 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
Patellar Luxation2.1-5.0% prevalence

Kneecap dislocation where the patella moves out of its normal position, common in small breeds.

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Skipping or hopping gait
  • Sudden leg lifting
  • Reluctance to jump
  • Locking of hind leg

Prevention Tips

  • Maintain healthy weight
  • Avoid excessive jumping
  • Ramps instead of stairs
  • Genetic screening for breeding
Portosystemic Shunt (Liver Shunt)1.6% prevalence

A health condition that may affect some Malteses 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
Necrotizing Meningoencephalitis (NME)Rare but serious prevalence

A health condition that may affect some Malteses 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

OFA Patella clearance
OFA Cardiac clearance
Serum Bile Acid test (liver shunt screening)
Reputable breeders should provide documentation for all genetic tests. Never purchase a puppy without seeing health clearances.

Malteses may be prone to:

General Health Concerns

Regular vet visits help catch issues early

Maltese Health Timeline

What to focus on at each life stage to keep your Maltese 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 Malteses
Vet Visits:

Every 6 months, with comprehensive bloodwork annually

Questions to Ask Your Vet About Malteses

1

What breed-specific health screenings do you recommend?

2

Are there any genetic tests available for common Maltese conditions?

3

What's the ideal weight range for my Maltese?

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 Malteses?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common health issues in Malteses?
Malteses 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 Malteses typically live?
Malteses 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 Malteses prone to allergies?
Like many breeds, Malteses 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 Maltese 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. Malteses with known health conditions may need more frequent visits.
Should I get pet insurance for my Maltese?
Pet insurance is recommended for all breeds as emergency vet care can cost thousands of dollars. The younger you insure your Maltese, the better the rates and coverage options.

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