Question 1

How much should a Maltese weigh?

Accepted Answer

The ideal weight for a Maltese is 3.3–6.6 lbs (1.5–3 kg). Even a small weight gain can be significant for smaller breeds.

Question 2

How many calories does a Maltese need per day?

Accepted Answer

A typical adult Maltese weighing about 5 lbs (2 kg) needs approximately 206–257 kcal per day, depending on activity level and neuter status.

Question 3

Is my Maltese overweight?

Accepted Answer

59% of dogs are overweight. Check your Maltese's Body Condition Score (BCS) — if you can't easily feel their ribs or they have no visible waist, they may be overweight. Take our free 2-minute BCS assessment.

Question 4

How big does a Maltese get?

Accepted Answer

A full-grown Maltese stands 20–25 cm (7.9–9.8 inches) tall and weighs 3.3–6.6 lbs (1.5–3 kg).

Question 5

What is the lifespan of a Maltese?

Accepted Answer

The average lifespan of a Maltese is 12–15 years. Smaller breeds tend to live longer.

Question 6

When do Malteses stop growing?

Accepted Answer

Most Malteses reach their full adult weight between 9 and 10 months of age. Small breeds mature faster and typically reach full size by 10 months. Use the growth milestones section above to track if your Maltese is growing at a healthy rate.

Question 7

How can I tell if my Maltese is overweight?

Accepted Answer

Check three signs: (1) You can't feel your Maltese's ribs easily under the fur. (2) From above, there's no visible waist behind the ribs. (3) From the side, the belly doesn't tuck up after the chest. If any of these apply, your Maltese may be carrying extra weight. Use the Body Condition Score checker above for a quick assessment, or consult your vet.

Question 8

How much should a Maltese puppy weigh at 3 months?

Accepted Answer

A 3-month-old Maltese typically weighs 1.2–3.0 lbs (0.5–1.4 kg). Use our Puppy Weight Predictor to estimate your puppy's adult weight based on current age and weight.

Question 9

What is the best diet for a Maltese to maintain healthy weight?

Accepted Answer

Adult Malteses typically need 206–257 calories per day, depending on activity level. Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their life stage (puppy, adult, or senior) and size. Use our Calorie Calculator for a personalized daily food amount recommendation.

Question 10

How much exercise does a Maltese need?

Accepted Answer

Malteses are a toy-sized breed and typically need 20–30 minutes of exercise per day. This includes walks, play time, and mental stimulation. Adjust based on your dog's age and health — puppies need shorter, gentler sessions while healthy adults can handle more.

Weight Range	3.3–6.6 lbs (1.5–3 kg)
Height	20–25 cm (7.9–9.8 inches)
Full Growth	9–10 months
Daily Calories	~206–257 kcal (adult, neutered)

Maltese Weight & Calorie Guide

Quick Facts

Ideal Weight Range

Maltese Calorie Calculator