5 Types of People Who Should Get a Maltese

3 min read
Updated on: May 21, 2024
5 Types of People Who Should Get a Maltese

Thinking about a Maltese and wondering if your home will be covered in a layer of dog hair? Good news: Maltese dogs really don’t shed much — at least compared to most other breeds. That’s one of the biggest reasons people with allergies or a dislike for dog hair gravitate toward them.

Why Maltese Dogs Don’t Shed (Much)

Unlike many double-coated breeds, Maltese dogs have no undercoat. Their hair is more like ours — fine, long, and silky. So while they can lose a few hairs here and there (just like we do), you won’t see tufts of fur flying around your house.

But don’t confuse low shedding with low maintenance.

Grooming a Maltese: It’s a Commitment

I’ve spent enough time around long-haired breeds to tell you: keeping that beautiful coat looking good takes work. Maltese hair mats easily, traps dirt like a magnet, and can stain if not cleaned regularly. Daily brushing is a must, and weekly baths help prevent tangles, odors, and buildup.

Quick tips from experience:

  • Always brush out mats before a bath — water makes them worse.
  • A good detangler spray and a wide-tooth comb are your best friends.
  • Train your Maltese early to enjoy (or at least tolerate) grooming — it makes life easier for both of you.

Allergies: Can a Maltese Still Trigger Them?

Here’s the truth: no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. Allergies are usually caused by proteins in a dog’s saliva, dander, and urine — not the hair itself. But because Maltese don’t shed much, those allergens don’t spread around as easily.

If you’ve got allergies, a Maltese might still work for you — but it depends on your sensitivity. Regular grooming, frequent cleaning, and tools like HEPA filters can make a big difference. And definitely talk with a doctor before bringing any dog home.

What If Your Maltese Is Shedding More Than Expected?

If you're seeing more hair than usual, it could be:

  • Stress: Changes in the home (like a move or a new pet) can cause this.
  • Poor diet: Nutrition affects coat health. Look for high-quality, grain-free food.
  • Health issues: Excessive shedding can be a sign of illness. A vet visit is always smart if something seems off.

Other Low-Shedding Breeds Worth Considering

If the Maltese isn’t quite your speed, here are a few other breeds to look into:

  • Bichon Frise – Similar coat and temperament, also low-shedding.
  • Yorkshire Terrier – Long hair like the Maltese, needs regular grooming.
  • Boston Terrier – Short-haired, low odor, and generally easy to live with.
  • Water Dogs (like Portuguese Water Dogs) – Very smart and social, also low-shedding.
  • Greyhounds – Very short hair and minimal shedding, though they need a specific kind of home and lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

If you're looking for a snuggly, elegant dog that won’t leave hair everywhere, the Maltese is a solid choice. Just remember — less shedding doesn’t mean less work. Regular grooming is non-negotiable, but in return, you get a sweet, loyal companion that’s perfect for smaller homes and allergy-conscious families.

If you're willing to put in the effort, the Maltese will more than repay you with love (and a clean couch).


Take the Quiz

Is a Maltese Right for You?

The Maltese is a charming and affectionate toy breed, known for its silky white coat and playful nature. Discover if this elegant companion fits your lifestyle by taking our quiz. Answer all questions below to discover your compatibility score and get personalized insights.

Question #1: What is the main reason you want a dog?

Companion and family dog
Guard dog or protector
Working/service dog or activity partner
Therapy/emotional support dog
No specific role, just a pet

Question #2: How active is your lifestyle?

Highly active
Moderately active
Occasionally active
Mostly sedentary

Question #3: How much time can you dedicate to your dog daily?

Several hours a day
A couple of hours (morning/evening)
About an hour
Less than an hour

Question #4: What best describes your home environment?

House with a large yard
House with a small yard
Apartment with access to parks
Small apartment with limited outdoor space

Question #5: What size dog do you prefer?

Small
Medium
Large
No preference

Question #6: What personality traits do you want in your dog?

Playful and energetic
Loyal and protective
Independent and reserved
Calm and affectionate

Question #7: How much grooming can you handle?

Frequent brushing/grooming
Occasional brushing
Low maintenance

Question #8: Who else lives with the dog?

No children or pets
Young children
Older children
Other pets

Question #9: Is this your first dog?

Yes
No, but little experience
No, experienced owner

Please answer all 9 questions to see your results

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