The Maltese are one of Europe’s oldest toy dog breeds, and it has been adored by royalty for generations. Even rock-and-roll king Elvis Presley, who had a Maltese, was a breed fan.
Maltese is also a popular dog breed in the United States because they are friendly dogs and family pets.
Being a royal dog has its perks, but it also comes with a hefty price tag. It’s costly to acquire a Maltese, from purchasing a puppy to the monthly costs of caring for the dog. Ownership of a Maltese is a long-term financial investment.
If you can’t afford to spend lots of money on a pet, you should go for a smaller, less expensive breed. They’re expensive, but they’re well worth it because of their calm demeanors and gorgeous looks.
One Time Costs: Maltese
Even if you can adopt a Maltese puppy from a rescue group or bring one home for free, there are still significant one-time fees. Food bowls, beds, collars, and other necessities, may add up to a significant financial commitment.
Depending on whether or not you already own a dog, you may have some of this stuff lying around, but for a Maltese on this site, you will need products specifically designed for them, and puppy mills must be avoided.
Maltese Breeders
The price you pay for a Maltese depends on several factors, including the kind of Maltese you want to buy and the reputation and responsibility of the responsible breeder you choose. Toys and tiny Maltese are often costlier than standard Maltese.
Responsible breeders that do not sell to pet shops should get their dogs tested for health issues, breed only healthy Maltese puppies each year, and keep the number of litters they produce limited. You should expect to pay between $15,00 and $1,500 for Maltese from a reputable breeder.
A good breeder of Maltese costs around $1000-$15,000.
Maltese Adoption
It is possible to welcome a dog into your life while also providing a loving home for a dog in need via adoption. Adopting a dog may cost as little as nothing or as much as a few hundred dollars, depending on where you go. The price of a Maltese from a rescue group might go into the hundreds of dollars, depending on the organization.
Keep in mind that obtaining a purebred Maltese via adoption is difficult since there will likely be little information available about the dog’s lineage. There are several reasons why owners choose to sell rather than give away Maltese pets.
Adoption of Maltese costs around $25-$50.
Maltese Free
It is quite unusual to come across one of these canines for free, so proceed with caution if you do come across one. When a dog is given away for free, it’s often because they haven’t been given much money to invest in them. Occasionally, unwanted pups are given away for free, but they don’t always get the required health checks.
Even if you don’t spend any money on the dog right now, the higher vet costs you’ll accrue mean you’ll have to pay for it in the long run.
Maltese Setup & Supplies
You’ll need a few things to take good care of your Maltese. The majority of these items are suitable for Maltese of any age, even though they’re essential for a young dog.
There may be changes in Maltese’s demands as they become older. You’ll need a leash and ID badge and a collar and a brush. A food dish and proper water are also helpful.
A dish that’s the proper size for your Maltese’s mouth will help him from smacking the rim or reaching for the last piece of food if the bowl is too deep.
Spaying or neutering a dog, as well as microchipping it, are popular options.
A Maltese’s setup and supplies will cost between $100 and $500.
Monthly Costs: Maltese
Monthly expenses for Maltese are in the center of the pack. They don’t need a lot of food since they aren’t very huge. They’re in good shape, so you shouldn’t have to take them to the vet on too many occasions.
Things like shampoo & toys are likely to be necessary, as is a standard charge for these puppies. Your dog’s upkeep costs are mostly under your hands. A larger maintenance expense is likely if you require a dog walker and take your puppy to the clinic more often.
The monthly cost of a Maltese is $85-$250.
Maltese Dog Food Costs
Maltese food costs may vary depending on the size of your pet and the sort of food they’re eating. For a small or toy Maltese. It’s critical to consider the brand of food you’re purchasing. Poor-quality food may harm your health in the short term as well as the long term.
After moving into a new home, puppies should gradually be exposed to a new food brand by providing them with the food they are already familiar with (should you not agree with what he is currently consuming). If you’re concerned about dry skin, skin irritation, and hair loss, steer clear of meals that contain chemicals. What your dog eats is solely to blame for this.
Every day, puppies need anything from 1 – to 3 cups of food. They will need at least a bowl of water each day as they become older. Roughly 120 portions of food may be stored in a 30-pound sack that costs around $100.
Once every four months, if they just drink one cup a day, you’ll have to replace your supply (they may eat more at times).
An average month’s supply of dog food will cost between $50 and $100.
Maltese Grooming Costs
Maltese, in general, need a lot of care and regular grooming. Visiting a dog groomer four to seven times a year is recommended by dog groomers. If you spend $40 to $60 for each appointment, you may expect to pay roughly $300 a year.
Taking the dog to a skilled groomer will benefit its overall health and well-being. This includes a wash & shampoo, hair care products, brushing & styling, teeth brushing, nail trimming, or eye & ear cleaning for dogs who are groomed by a professional. Variables, such as the dog’s height, hair condition and health, age, temperament, and what services are requested, affect dog grooming price.
It’s possible to make your cleaning kit. It costs on average $75 to buy one online or at a store, and it comes with all the supplies you have to look for your Maltese at the house!
A Maltese’s grooming can set you back anything from $75 to $250.
Entertainment/Toy Costs: Maltese
Maltese need just a little amount of physical activity and dog sports. Most dog owners can handle this on their own. Nevertheless, if you will be gone for long periods, you may want to consider hiring a dog walker regularly.
Many dog walkers cost between $15 and $25 for a one-hour outing with your pet. There’s not much here. Paying $60-$100 per week for a dog walker if you need them five days a week isn’t unreasonable.
In certain cases, Maltese need solitary walks due to their inability to get along with other dogs.
Playing with toys is a favorite pastime for these dogs. Toys are a year-round expense for dogs, and this is no exception. A few are going to break, and a few will disappear.
Toys for your dog are often purchased once or twice a month. Like a Maltese could demolish any soft, plush toy in minutes, they must be tough. Even if costlier, toys that last a long time are a better investment.
You may anticipate paying between $15 and $30 a month if you get the right toys. If your dog’s toys seem to be disappearing quicker than usual, it’s time to invest in bigger, more durable options. Firehose and other comparable materials may be used to make various products.
You may find yourself spending less money on toys as your dog ages. After six or seven, they’ll probably cease playing rough and more often trash their toys. On the other hand, Maltese Puppies are far more likely than Maltese adults to engage in physical play.
The Entertainment and Toys of Maltese can cost around $400.
Maltese Veterinarian Costs
You’ll spend the most money on your dog’s medical care since the expenses rise swiftly in this area.
Flea prevention, as well as any drugs they need, will cost money. The expense of dogs with underlying illnesses is much higher than that of dogs without any underlying issues. This is where the bulk of your expenses will be incurred.
Veterinary care fees will eat up a large chunk of your dog’s monthly expenses. Puppies are costlier than adults since they need more preventive care than older dogs. You may anticipate seeing the veterinarian three times if you have a puppy.
Vaccines and parasite prevention are included in these appointments and a physical examination. If your breeder has already paid for the initial test, it will save you money.
Adults just only one yearly checkup for preventive care. This visit, though, will be more comprehensive. Due to their increased size, parasite prevention will cost little extra costs.
Puppies are cheaper than adults on average, although the difference isn’t huge. Most dog owners spend about $40 a month caring for their pets, but most are spent on a few doctor appointments.
You may expect to pay between $50 to $265 for a visit to a veterinarian.
Potential Additional Costs: Maltese
You may not have considered the cost of hiring a pet sitter or dog walker yet. Suppose you’re taking a summer vacation. You can bet that at least one youngster in the neighborhood would jump at the chance to help you out with the dog’s care and maintenance for $30 per day while you’re gone.
Your puppy’s potential for damage is also a concern, and that is something you do not know about. That which he can demolish is all that matters! Remember to include instruction in the areas of conduct and compliance!
All of this may add up. At the very least, you can expect to add $75 a month to your budget to accommodate for the unknown factors.
Pet Insurance Costs: Maltese
We strongly suggest that you get insurance for this kind of animal. However, they are susceptible to a lot of health problems that may be quite expensive to cure. For example, hip dysplasia, a dental disease, and renal dysplasia may cost tens of thousands of dollars to fix, and these are common problems.
Pet insurance comes in a variety of types. The lowest plans only cover physical injuries, such as a dog breaking a leg or sustaining a wound. In contrast, these policies do not provide coverage for sickness.
How much insurance will your dog cost depending on where you live and how old your dog is? As they become older, it becomes costlier.
You should expect to pay between $30 and $45 a month for pet insurance
How to Save Money Owning: Maltese
You may save money on a professional dog groomer by brushing your dog daily to avoid matting and keep an eye on their skin’s condition. To save money on dog grooming costs, you may want to consider doing it yourself if you’re comfortable with it.
To save money on Maltese care and maintenance, keeping an eye out for deals and coupons at online and brick-and-mortar stores is a good option. With these coupons, food, toys, snacks, cleaning supplies, pet grooming products, and other items may all be purchased for far less.
The Bottom Line: Cost to Own a Maltese Summary
Dogs of the Maltese breed may cost up to $15,000. They aren’t as pricey as other breeds, but plenty of less costly options are. Even if they aren’t ideal for individuals on a tight budget, these canines are more than affordable for most families.
Those who appreciate Maltese will find these animals to be exceptional investments.
A pup from a breeder will cost you between $1,500 and $15,000 this is the average price of a pup. Puppy expenditures and socialization are often included in the sale price of these pups, which might help you save money in the long run. Be aware of this while making financial plans.
Most of the $500 in dog supplies must be acquired before bringing your new pet home. Most Maltese owners will stick at the low end of the scale of the $85-$250 monthly expense range. It costs roughly $250 a month if you don’t take your pet to the groomer and employ a dog walker.
- Breeder Cost $1,500-$15,000
- Adoption Cost $25-$50
- Setup & Supplies $100-$500
- Monthly Costs $85-$250
- Dog Food Costs $50-$100
- Grooming Costs $40-$60
- Entertainment Cost $400
- Veterinarian Cost $50-$265
- Pet Insurance $30-$45
Mixed Breeds Similar to Maltese
Best Puppy Food for Maltese
Here are our best puppy food for Maltese reviews.
1. Wellness Natural Small Breed Puppy Food
Wellness Natural Small Breed Puppy Food is a premium recipe designed with tiny kibble for your pup’s little jaws. High-quality protein comes from deboned turkey and salmon, with select fats and easily digestible carbohydrates to support growth and energy.
- Supports brain development with DHA
- No meat by-product fillers
- Flaxseed for your Maltese’ luxurious coat
2. Nulo Small Breed Puppy & Dog Food
Nulo Small Breed Dog Food is specially designed for small and toy breed puppies and dogs like Maltese. Your pup will love this grain-free salmon and red lentil recipe, containing premium probiotics for excellent digestive and immune health.
- 84% of protein from animal sources
- Lentils, sweet potatoes and chickpeas
- No corn, wheat, soy, tapioca or white potatoes
3. Solid Gold Mighty Mini Holistic Dog Food
This Solid Gold Mighty Mini recipe has one of the smallest kibbles on the market and is designed for active toy breed dogs and puppies. This high-protein recipe has real chicken as the first ingredient for a nutritious, tasty meal your Maltese will love.
- Probiotic support for developing digestive systems
- Chickpea and pumpkin for excellent source of fiber
- Also available in beef, lamb, salmon and turkey
4. Royal Canin X-Small Puppy Dog Food
Royal Canin X-Small Puppy Dry Dog Food is designed for toy breed puppies with an adult weight up to eight pounds. This recipe will support your Maltese’ developing immune system with its blend of antioxidants and minerals.
- Designed for small puppies up to 10 months old
- Highly digestible protein and prebiotics
- Tiny kibble designed for small jaws
5. Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Recipe
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Recipe is a dry food designed for small and mini-puppies like Maltese with a special kibble for their small jaws. DHA is added from fish oil for healthy brain and eye development.
- High quality protein for lean muscle development
- Enriched with minerals for healthy bones and teeth
- Chicken and barley recipe for great flavor
Puppy Food for Maltese Buyer’s Guide
Feeding your Maltese puppy a healthy diet is a very important job as his pet parent. The biggest danger of an unhealthy diet for your puppy is obesity. Your Maltese’ tiny frame cannot support a lot of extra weight, so choose a puppy food designed for small or toy breeds to ensure he gets everything he needs for healthy growth, with no added fillers or by-product meals. His tiny tummy will get full quickly, so each bite has to be packed with lean protein, essential vitamins and minerals, and several other important nutrients required for optimal growth and development.
Our buying guide reviews the best puppy food for Maltese on the market so you can choose the right one for your dog. The following are specific considerations you should make for your Maltese and when choosing the right food for your growing puppy.
Size and Build
Puppy food for your Maltese should be very small. Look for a kibble that is an appropriate size and shape so he can easily pick it up. Puppy kibble for your Maltese should be slightly softer than adult kibble, to help his small jaws chew and swallow it. Since your Maltese puppy has a tiny stomach, an easy-to-digest kibble will be beneficial. Look for a recipe with added probiotics, prebiotics and fiber to support his developing digestive system.
Nutritional Needs for Growth
When choosing food for your Maltese puppy, look for protein from lean sources such as chicken, turkey or fish to support his energy needs, lean muscle development and a healthy weight. A quality brand will have real meat as the first ingredient. Your puppy’s glorious coat will benefit from omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E. Maltese puppies also need vitamin A and DHA to support developing eye and brain functions. Support the development of his tiny bones and joints by choosing a recipe with adequate amounts of calcium and phosphorous, along with antioxidants for immune system development.
Food Allergies
Maltese can sometimes develop food allergies, which will lead to dry, itchy skin, thinning hair or even vomiting and diarrhea. If a food allergy is suspected, a grain-free recipe can help you identify the trigger. High-quality grain-free recipes will still contain healthy carbohydrates, such as pumpkin or peas that will help maintain his energy as he grows. Check with your veterinarian to rule out other issues and follow the recommended guidelines on slowly transitioning your Maltese puppy’s diet to his new food.
Additional Recommended Products for Your Maltese
- Best Dog Food
- Best Dog Bowl
- Best Automatic Dog Feeder
- Best Interactive Dog Toys
- Best Dog Playpen
- Best Outdoor Dog Kennel
- Best Dog House
- Best Dog Crate
- Best Dog Treat
- Best Automatic Fetch Machine
- Best Dog Activity Monitor
- Best Dog Food Container
- Best Electronic Dog Door
- Best Dog Ramp
- Best Dog Cooling Vest
- Best GPS Tracker for Dogs
- Best Dog Bed
- Best Dog Cooling Pad
- Best Indestructible Dog Bed
- Best Dog Training Book
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