Malteser health
Health Guide

Malteser Health Problems & Prevention

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

Life Expectancy
12-15 years

Common Malteser Health Problems

Based on veterinary research and breed health studies

Parodontose80% prevalence

A health condition that may affect some Maltesers 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
Mitralklappenerkrankung (MVD)28.4% prevalence

A health condition that may affect some Maltesers 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
Patellaluxation2.1-5.0% prevalence

A health condition that may affect some Maltesers 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
Portosystemischer Shunt (Lebershunt)1.6% prevalence

A health condition that may affect some Maltesers 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
Nekrotisierende Meningoenzephalitis (NME)Selten aber schwerwiegend prevalence

A health condition that may affect some Maltesers 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-Freigabe
OFA Herzfreigabe
Serum-Gallensäuretest (Lebershunt-Screening)
Reputable breeders should provide documentation for all genetic tests. Never purchase a puppy without seeing health clearances.

Maltesers may be prone to:

General Health Concerns

Regular vet visits help catch issues early

Malteser Health Timeline

What to focus on at each life stage to keep your Malteser 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 Maltesers
Vet Visits:

Every 6 months, with comprehensive bloodwork annually

Questions to Ask Your Vet About Maltesers

1

What breed-specific health screenings do you recommend?

2

Are there any genetic tests available for common Malteser conditions?

3

What's the ideal weight range for my Malteser?

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 Maltesers?

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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