The Maltese dog is a little breed that is well-known for its long, silky hair. These sociable, versatile, and adorable toy dogs make excellent companions.

A Maltese growth chart will enable you to monitor their progress as they mature.

A Maltese's show-stopping coat conceals a tiny frame that contributes to their fluid and smooth walk.

They are prehistoric dogs with gumdrop-shaped snouts and black eyes. Many people succumb to their cheery allure.

Additionally, they blend in well with the family due to their loyalty and intelligence. Maltese are also modest shedders and take up very little room due to their small size.

They are also beneficial in terms of security, as they are attentive and will bark at intruders. When combined with its agility and high life expectancy, this breed truly is unique.

When Do Maltese Stop Growing?

By the time your Maltese dog reaches his first birthday, he will have grown to his full size. Indeed, you would have observed that he had to halt his growth at least three months prior to this.

However, in a few rare cases, a Maltese dog will continue to develop until it is roughly 15 months old.

Additionally, it is necessary to realize that Maltese dogs vary in size, which is most likely genetic. feature. As a result, the parents of your Maltese puppy will have an effect on his eventual size.

Male Maltese are typically larger than female Maltese, however, they can reach a weight of 4 to 7 pounds in adulthood.

Maltese Growth Pictures

Maltese Weight Calculator

Except for the projected adult weight, which is in pounds, all measurements are in ounces. To begin, convert your Maltese weight in pounds to ounces (16 ounces = 1 pound). Determine your Maltese's age on the left side of the chart and then follow that line until you reach your Maltese's current weight (still in ounces).

Finally, continue down the column from which you determined its current weight to obtain the predicted adult weight in pounds. It is critical to keep a close eye on this chart.

In some situations, your Maltese may deviate from this pattern; this does not necessarily indicate that there is an issue; it may simply be larger due to inevitable factors such as genes.

The table below illustrates the ideal weight for Maltese during various developmental stages.

What is the Standard Maltese Size

Male and female Maltese adults weigh between 2 and 7 pounds. Both sexes are quite similar in weight and cease developing around the age of 12 to 15 months. After kids reach adulthood, their weight is largely determined by their food, activity level, and overall health.

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the ideal weight of a Maltese dog should be less than 7 pounds in order for the dog to compete in their show and receive certification; this is a stringent requirement. However, it is not uncommon to find Malteses weighing 8 or even 9 pounds; these dogs are simply unable to compete in show competitions.

Maltese Weight Chart

Here is the weight chart of a Maltese:

Birth	3.5 oz	4 oz	4.5 oz	4.75 oz	5 oz	5.5 oz	6 oz	6.5 oz
1 week	5.5	6.5	7	8	9	9.5	10.25	11
2 weeks	7	9	10	11	12.5	13.5	14.5	16
3 weeks	9	11	13	14	16	17.5	18.5	0
4 weeks	11	13	15	17	19	21	23	4
5 weeks	13	15	17	19.5	22	24	26	9
6 weeks	15	17.5	20	22	24	27	30	32
7 weeks	17	19.5	22	24.5	27	30	33	35
8 weeks	19	21.5	24	27	29	33	36	39
9 weeks	20	23	26	29	32	35	39	42
10 weeks	22	26	28	31	34	38	41	45
11 weeks	24	27	31	34	37	40	45	49
12 weeks	26	30	33	37	41	45	49	53
13 weeks	28	32	36	40	44	49	53	57
14 weeks	30	34	39	43	47	52	56	60
15 weeks	32	37	41	46	51	56	61	65
16 weeks	34	39	44	49	54	59	65	70
17 weeks	36	41	46	51	57	62	67	72
18 weeks	37	43	48	54	60	65	71	76
19 weeks	39	44	50	56	62	67	72	77
20 weeks	41	46	52	58	64	70	76	81
21 weeks	42	48	54	60	66	72	78	84
22 weeks	43	49	56	62	68	74	80	85
23 weeks	44	50	57	64	70	76	82	88
24 weeks	45	51	58	65	71	78	84	90
25 weeks	46	52	59	66	72	79	86	93
26 weeks	47	53	60	67	73	80	87	94
Final Adult Weight	3.35 lbs	4 lbs	4.5 lbs	5 lbs	5.5 lbs	6 lbs	6.5 lbs	7 lbs

Maltese Growth Chart – What To Expect
Maltese Weight Chart by Age

Maltese Weight  1-2 weeks

Puppies of the Maltese breed are born deaf, toothless, and blind. This is a delicate period for them because they are unable to control their body temperature on their own.

The newborn dog relies on its mother and siblings for warmth and comfort at this time.

They can wiggle and crawl close to their mother, but their strength and coordination are insufficient for walking at the moment.

It is critical for parents to provide puppies this time with their moms in order for them to develop appropriately.

Maltese Weight 3-12 weeks

At this point, you will notice that your Maltese puppy has undergone significant changes. For example, they have increased mobility as their muscles begin to mature.

Thus, you have adorable puppies exploring and romping around with their littermates.

Weaning also begins during this time period, and the dam will nurse less from around the end of week 4 to the beginning of week 5. Now is the time to wean the puppy onto solid foods.

By 7 weeks, the pup should be completely weaned and consuming solid food. Around week 8, the milk teeth begin to emerge.

Maltese Weight 4-6months

The Maltese puppy will go through teething during this time. The 28 milk teeth will begin to fall out, and 42 adult teeth will replace them. Additionally, you should be on the alert for tears and facial stains during this period.

This can be a significant issue for the majority of Maltese owners. Tear and face staining should occur between four and five months of age for your puppy.

While some people use hydrogen peroxide to alleviate tear staining, it is always prudent to see your veterinarian.

Maltese Weight  7-9 months

The majority of Maltese dogs reach puberty during this period. Female canines are experiencing their first heat cycle, while males are producing viable sperm.

You must keep an eye on them during these periods because they have been known to stray in search of mates.

Maltese Weight  10-12 months

You may see that some pups stop developing while others continue to grow. The majority of puppies will continue to mature until they reach about nine months of age, but they can also continue to grow up to one year. After approximately six months, the growth curve will flatten down.

Maltese Adult Weight 

Adult Maltese dogs typically weigh around 7 pounds. Maltese dogs typically weigh between three and eight pounds.

They should be short in stature and have an average height of 8 to 10 inches from floor to withers (shoulder blades).

What is the Full Grown Maltese Weight?

Maltese dogs grow to be approximately seven to twelve inches tall and weigh approximately four to eight pounds. They're the ideal size for curling up on your lap. They are most well-known for their long, silky white coat that hangs to the ground.

How To Weigh Your Maltese Puppy?

If you want to maintain track of your Maltese's weight, you must first learn how to weigh him properly.

To begin, you should be able to weigh your Maltese at home if he is a puppy or if you are just large enough to hold him. This can be accomplished with a standard bathroom scale.

To begin, weigh yourself and record the result. Then, while standing on the scale, pick up your dog and hold him. The difference in weights represents your dog's weight.

If your dog is too huge to carry, you can either invest in a dog scale, which can cost upwards of $100, or contact your veterinarian. The majority of veterinarian offices will enable you to use their scale.

Unless there is a health problem, you can weigh an adult Maltese once every six months. Once a week is sufficient for a puppy to ensure he is growing normally.

What Is A Maltese’s Neck Size?

To determine the neck size of your dog, use a soft and flexible tape measure to determine the neck size of your dog where her collar naturally falls. Then, put two fingers between your dog's neck and the tape measure to ensure that the dog collar fits snugly but comfortably. Maltese's average neck circumference is between 10 and 14 inches.

Factors That Affect  Maltese Puppy Growth 

Genetics

Genetic factors contribute significantly to the breed's total size. Their parents' DNA dictate their rate of growth and development throughout their lives.

The size of the parents might give you an idea of how the puppy will look, however they may grow to be larger than their parents in some situations. Other factors also play a role, but the gene is the most important.

Diet & Nutrition

The amount of food you provide your Maltese is also critical. If you overfeed him, the dog has a tendency to gain weight.

On the other side, underfeeding the dog might result in underweight and stunted growth. In either case, they may face specific risks to their overall health status.

You should provide quality dog food for your Maltese that is minimal in fillers and additives but rich in nutritional value. While he is a puppy, feeding him twice daily is appropriate; as he matures, you can adjust his feeding plan.

Keep sweets away from them as kids are prone to tooth and gum problems. It has been determined that simply altering the diet of your Maltese can increase their overall life expectancy by up to two years or more.

Physical Activity & Health

The health of your Maltese can have an effect on his size. If your Maltese is unwell with an infection, worms, or congenital sickness (a disease that is present from birth), his growth rate will be slowed.

Certain congenital disorders, such as hepatic shunts and patent ductus arteriosus, are fatal. If this is the case, it is critical to take them to the veterinarian immediately.

Exercises also have an effect on your Maltese's size. Regular exercise strengthens the heart and promotes blood circulation in your Maltese. This boosts their bone density, strengthens their muscles, and promotes joint mobility, all of which help them maintain a healthy weight.

Because Malteses are prone to behave similarly to their owners, if you are laid back, your Maltese will likely emulate you and become laid back as well. Taking them for at least 20 minutes each day on a stroll enhances their quality of life.

Will Neutering/Spaying My Maltese Affect His Growth?

When your Maltese dog reaches the age of 18 months, it is best to have him or her neutered or spayed.

Bear in mind that the Maltese typically matures between the ages of 12 and 15 months. Thus, this would allow them sufficient time to mature fully before spaying or neutering.

Neutering, in particular, has been demonstrated to have a detrimental effect on a male dog's growth.

This is because testosterone impacts their growth. When they are neutered, this process is disrupted, resulting in joint problems and some cancers.

Having said that, there are a few advantages to spaying and neutering, including preventing unwanted pregnancies. Additionally, it can help prevent some diseases and, in certain situations, make your dog less aggressive.

Common Questions about Maltese

At What Age Is A Maltese Fully Grown?

Around six to eight months of age, the majority of Maltese puppies will reach their full size. As a toy dog breed, they mature significantly more quickly than other breeds.

Main Types and Breeds Of Malteses

The following are some popular maltese cross breeds and their adult weights.

Maltipoo: This is a crossbreed between a Maltese and a Poodle. Although the American Kennel Club does not recognize them, they are a common crossbreed. They typically weigh between 5 and 20 pounds and stand between 5 and 15 inches at the shoulders.

Maltipom: This hybrid is created when a Pomeranian and a Maltese are crossed. They typically weigh between 4 and 9 pounds and stand between 8 and 12 inches tall.

Malshi is a crossbreed between a purebred Maltese and a Shih Tzu. It is similar in size to the Maltipoo but stands between 5 and 20 inches tall at the shoulders.

Maltipug: This breed is the product of the cross between a Maltese and a Pug. They weigh between ten and twenty pounds and stand between ten and fourteen inches tall at the shoulders.

Malchi: A malchi is a mix between a Maltese and a Chihuahua. They stand between 12 and 14 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 5 and 12 pounds on average.

Morkie: This is a cross between a Yorkshire Terrier and a Maltese. They stand between 4 and 8 inches tall and weigh between 7 and 13 pounds.

Malteagle: A malteagle is a hybrid between a Maltese and a Beagle. It weighs between 15 and 22 pounds and stands between 9 and 15 inches tall.

Maltichon: A maltichon is a crossbreed between a Maltese and a Bichon Frise. They stand between 8 and 10 inches tall and weigh between 9 and 14 pounds.

How Long Are Maltese Pregnant?

As is the case with other small dog breeds, a Maltese pregnancy lasts approximately eight to ten weeks.

After approximately eight weeks, a Maltese litter may be expected at any time. If a Maltese pregnancy exceeds 10 weeks, there should be grounds for concern.

Normally, Maltese dogs can become pregnant immediately after their first heat cycle. This typically occurs between the ages of 4 and 8 months, which is a relatively young age.

It is not recommended for Maltese to become pregnant during their first heat cycle because their bodies have not yet fully developed and pregnancy at this age is detrimental to them.

How Many Puppies Do Maltese Have?

A Maltese can have between three and eight puppies during a normal pregnancy. Though it is uncommon, a single puppy or a litter of ten can be born.

Maltese puppies are typically born weighing around 4 ounces and gain weight steadily each day as they acquire strength and develop.

What Is The Life Expectancy Of Maltese?

Life expectancy for the Maltese dog breed is typically between 12 and 15 years, with the average age of natural death being 13 and a half years.

Certain Maltese dogs survive far longer than this, despite the fact that this is the normal age of death. They can reach the ages of 15, 16, and even 17, with females surviving slightly longer than males.

How Much Does It Cost To Own A Maltese?

The average cost of owning a Maltese dog is between $1000 and $3000 per year. This amount would cover all costs associated with food, training, veterinarian visits, toys, and immunizations.

Due to the Maltese's small size, the costs are actually lower than those of a much larger dog. Larger dogs require additional food, activity, and training.

Purchasing a dog is not a decision that should be made lightly. It is vital to get a thorough idea of the annual expenditures associated with maintaining a Maltese in order to make an informed selection.

How To Help Your Maltese Lose Weight If He Is Overweight 

As with humans, exercise is critical for your overweight dog's health. Increased movement helps your dog burn off excess energy (and calories consumed). Avoid panic! Exercising your pet does not have to include marathons or lengthy hikes. Regular walks and the opportunity to run and play safely off-leash. 

Even creating a stimulating indoor environment that encourages your dog to exercise on a regular basis can help. Bear in mind that different breeds require varying amounts of exercise, so visit your veterinarian, breeder, or your dog's breed standard for recommendations on recommended activity levels.

Distinguish Begging from Hunger

Begging is not necessarily motivated by a desire for more food; it is also used to gain attention. (And, by rewarding the behavior, you reinforce and encourage it to continue.) If your dog begs, do not automatically assume he is hungry. Trust your instincts and keep track of the date and time of your last meal. 

If your dog is prone to begging and you are prone to succumb to those puppy dog eyes, choose a high-protein meal with a fiber blend to help control your dog's hunger and voluntary food consumption. This manner, you may feed your dog with the assurance that he will feel fuller and content for a longer period of time.

Restriction on treats and table scraps

Even when our dogs are not begging, many of us provide an excessive amount of treats and table scraps. Dogs are not required to share our food! Consider treats and scraps for your pet in the same way that you would candy for children to help you keep them in check. If you're going to utilize snacks for training, choose low-calorie, low-fat ones and keep the portions small. 

As an alternative, keep in mind that clickers are excellent for reinforcement… and they have no calories! After all, a few extra pounds can make a significant impact in the lives of dogs, which are significantly smaller than humans. (Even the colossal breeds!) Therefore, focus on a balanced diet and resist the temptation to “reward” them with extra.

Customize Your Dog's Diet

Not all weight-loss foods are created equal, which is why it's critical to match your dog's nutrition plan to their unique needs. Choose a brand that caters to your dog's unique needs, whether they be weight control, dietary sensitivities, or illnesses.

Why a Maltese Could Be Obese

Overfeeding is a big factor in your Maltese becoming overweight. As previously said, giving your Maltese dog food that contains a high amount of additives, fillers, and has a low nutritional value may result in an unhealthy weight increase.

It is critical to keep an eye on what and when your Maltese eats. If feasible, create a well-planned schedule to ensure that the appropriate amount of food is served at the appropriate time.

Inadequate exercise is another crucial aspect to address. When your dog does not receive adequate exercise, he or she may become overweight.

Being overweight can result in a variety of health problems for Maltese dogs, particularly in their joints, as they are small-boned and will be carrying an excessive amount of weight.

Conclusion on Maltese Growth Chart

Finally, Malteses are unique dogs who require a great deal of attention, particularly as they mature. From puppyhood through adulthood, they require proper care.

The majority of Maltese hybrids are not recognized by the kennel club; they are primarily bred as designer dogs because of their small size and frequently hairy appearance.

Their weight and height vary according to breed. Each Maltese is unique, and even those born on the same day typically grow at a distinct rate.

Having a general understanding of their predicted growth rate is critical for determining when they deviate from the path.

Maintaining frequent veterinarian visits can assist in detecting and treating any disease conditions that may restrict your Maltese's growth. While it may take a community to raise a child, raising a Maltese requires only a diligent owner.

Frequently Asked Questions: