Quick answer
Our top pick is Royal Canin Maltese Adult Wet Dog Food, formulated specifically for the breed’s dental and digestive needs. For a budget-friendly option, Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Wet Dog Food offers excellent nutrition at a lower price. If your Maltese has a sensitive stomach, Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini Wet Dog Food is a great choice.
What to consider for Wet Dog Food For Maltese Dogs
Maltese dogs are small, often weighing under 7 pounds, and have a long lifespan (12 to 15 years). They are prone to dental issues, so wet food can be easier to chew and more palatable. Their small stomachs require nutrient-dense food with moderate calories to prevent obesity. Many Maltese have sensitive skin and allergies, so limited ingredient or novel protein recipes may help. Look for wet food with high moisture content to support urinary health, and avoid artificial additives that could trigger allergies.
What to look for in a dog food
Choose a wet dog food that is AAFCO complete and balanced for your Maltese’s life stage (adult, puppy, or senior). The first ingredient should be a named meat source, such as chicken, lamb, or fish. Protein content should be around 25 to 35% on a dry matter basis, fat around 10 to 20%, and calories between 300 and 400 kcal per can (adjust for size). For Maltese, small breed formulas often have smaller kibble or pate texture, and include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health. Joint support (glucosamine and chondroitin) can be beneficial for older Maltese.
How we chose these picks
- We evaluated products based on ingredient quality and nutritional adequacy.
- We prioritized brands that meet AAFCO standards and have a history of safety.
- We considered specific needs of Maltese dogs, such as small bite size and high palatability.
- We reviewed customer feedback for palatability and digestive tolerance.
- We checked for the absence of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
- We compared price per ounce to ensure value.
- We consulted veterinary nutrition guidelines for small breed dogs.
- Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.
What to avoid
- Avoid foods with an unnamed “meat meal” as the only protein source; look for named meats like “chicken meal” or “salmon meal.”
- Be cautious with grain-free or legume-heavy recipes due to the ongoing FDA investigation into a potential link with canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Grain-inclusive diets are generally safer unless your vet advises otherwise.
- Do not feed an “all life stages” food to a Maltese puppy unless it meets large breed puppy requirements; most all-life-stages foods are formulated for adult maintenance and may not support proper growth.
- Avoid abrupt diet switches; transition over 7 to 10 days by mixing increasing amounts of new food with old food.
For more guidance, check out our dog guides, dog food reviews, and dog health articles.
