How Much Does a Maltese Really Cost?
Calculate monthly expenses, annual budgets, and lifetime costs for owning a Maltese. Adjust food quality, insurance, and grooming to match your lifestyle.
Understanding Maltese Ownership Costs
Maltese are elegant, pure-white lap dogs whose minimal food costs are counterbalanced by extensive grooming requirements and daily coat maintenance. Weighing just 3.5kg with a 14-year lifespan, Maltese have exceptionally low food expenses ($20-38/month) but demand professional grooming every 4-6 weeks at $45-70 per session to maintain their flowing white coats, totaling $650-1,000 annually. Daily brushing and facial cleaning are essential to prevent matting and tear staining that discolors their signature white fur. As tier 2 health dogs, Maltese face dental disease requiring annual cleanings ($300-800), patellar luxation (knee surgery $1,500-3,000), liver shunt issues (treatment $2,000-5,000), and occasional heart problems. Monthly costs average $160-290 including food, grooming, dental care, insurance, and toys. Their low activity level makes them perfect apartment dogs requiring minimal exercise beyond indoor play. This calculator accounts for their tiny food requirements, significant grooming investment, critical daily coat care, 14-year commitment, and toy breed health considerations. For dedicated owners willing to invest in daily grooming routines and professional maintenance, Maltese offer affectionate, elegant companionship.
💡 Key Cost Factors for Maltese
- High grooming needs: professional grooming every 4-6 weeks ($45-70/session)
- Minimal food costs ($20-38/month) for tiny 3.5kg companion
- Daily facial cleaning required to prevent tear staining (supplies $10-20/month)
- Dental care critical: tiny mouths require cleanings $300-800/year
💰 Budget Estimator for Maltese
Adjust the sliders below to match your lifestyle and see real-time cost estimates.
Where Does Your Money Go?
Frequently Asked Questions About Maltese Costs
1. How much does Maltese grooming really cost?
Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks at $45-70 per session costs $650-1,000/year. Their long, silky white coat requires expert trimming and bathing. Many owners maintain shorter 'puppy cuts' ($45-60) over show coats ($65-85) to reduce daily brushing. Without proper care, coats mat requiring expensive de-matting ($150-400). Daily brushing (5-10 minutes) and facial cleaning are mandatory between professional visits.
2. Why do Maltese have tear staining and how much does it cost?
Maltese have shallow eye sockets causing tear overflow that stains white fur reddish-brown. Daily cleaning with tear stain remover ($10-20/month in supplies) prevents discoloration. Severe cases may require vet-prescribed antibiotics or surgical tear duct flushing ($300-800). While cosmetic, tear staining is constant maintenance—budget $120-240/year for cleaning products and potentially veterinary intervention.
3. Are Maltese expensive to own despite tiny size?
Food is minimal ($20-38/month), but grooming and dental care create moderate costs. Monthly expenses average $160-290 including grooming ($50-85 averaged), insurance ($30-50), dental products ($15-25), tear stain supplies ($10-20), and toys/treats ($15-20). Their 14-year lifespan creates $22,000-40,000 lifetime commitment. While not expensive monthly, grooming investment adds up over 14 years ($9,000-14,000).
4. What health issues should I budget for with a Maltese?
Tier 2 health means moderate vet costs: dental disease (cleanings $300-800/year essential), patellar luxation (knee surgery $1,500-3,000), liver shunt (rare but expensive at $2,000-5,000), and occasional heart issues. Annual vet costs average $250-500. Their 14-year lifespan means cumulative health expenses potentially reaching $15,000-28,000. Insurance ($30-50/month) helps manage unexpected costs, especially liver shunt risk in young Maltese.
🐾 Ready to Bring Home a Maltese?
Now that you understand the financial commitment, explore our guides on Maltese care, training tips, and dog-friendly destinations perfect for your new companion.
Disclaimer: Cost estimates are based on average market prices and typical breed characteristics. Actual expenses vary by location, individual dog health, lifestyle choices, and unforeseen circumstances. Always consult with veterinarians and pet professionals for personalized advice.