Breed Feeding Guide
Maltese Feeding Guide
Tiny, elegant dogs with pure white coats that require excellent nutrition. Tear staining is a common cosmetic concern that can be influenced by diet. Picky eaters are common in the breed.
Weight Range
4–7lbs
Daily Calories
150–300kcal
Activity Level
Moderate
Lifespan
12–15 years
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Feeding by Life Stage
Puppy
Small-breed puppy formula with tiny kibble. Feed 4 times daily until 4 months, 3 times until 8 months. Hypoglycemia risk — never skip meals.
Transition to adult food: 9–10 months
Adult
Need 150–300 kcal/day. Feed 2–3 times daily. Quality protein and omega-3 for coat. Small-breed formula essential.
Senior
Maintain frequent meals. Dental disease is often significant. May need soft food if teeth are compromised.
Dietary Considerations
Tear staining may improve with filtered/distilled water, avoiding foods with red dye or excessive iron, and adding probiotics. Picky eating is common — try warming food, rotating proteins, or adding a small amount of warm broth.
What to Look for in a Food
Tiny-breed formula, omega-3/6 for white coat, dental support, probiotics for tear stains, high-quality protein (28%+).
Weight Management
Very small frame — even small weight changes are significant. Use precise measurements. Monitor closely.
Breed-Specific Health Considerations
These common health issues can be influenced by diet and nutrition:
Related Tools
Disclaimer: This guide provides general feeding recommendations for the Maltese breed. Individual dogs may have different needs based on health conditions, medications, and metabolism. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized dietary advice.