Start with the Right Kibble Size
Maltese have tiny mouths and sometimes missing or crowded teeth. I always tell owners to choose a kibble labeled for small or toy breeds. The pieces are tiny, making it easier for your Maltese to chew without choking. Look for a formula with real meat as the first ingredient, like chicken, turkey, or lamb. Avoid fillers such as corn, wheat, and soy. Many Maltese do well on a limited ingredient diet to avoid allergies. If your Maltese has a sensitive stomach, a hydrolyzed protein diet may help, but consult your vet first.
Meal Frequency and Portions
Maltese puppies need three to four small meals a day. Adults do well on two to three meals. Because they are prone to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially as puppies, never skip a meal. I recommend splitting their daily food into equal parts. A typical adult Maltese weighing 4 to 7 pounds needs about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of high-quality dry food per day. Adjust based on activity level and body condition. Always measure portions to prevent obesity, which strains their delicate joints.
Treats should be tiny and healthy. Use pieces of cooked lean meat, blueberries, or small training treats. Limit treats to no more than 10% of daily calories. Avoid rawhide, which can cause blockages. Never give your Maltese grapes, raisins, chocolate, onions, garlic, or xylitol-sweetened products. These are toxic.
Foods to Avoid and Special Considerations
Maltese are prone to liver shunts, so a low-protein diet may be necessary in some cases. However, most Maltese need moderate protein for muscle and coat health. Talk to your vet about your dog’s specific needs. Fatty foods can trigger pancreatitis, so keep fat low. Avoid table scraps, especially high-fat meats.
Be cautious with dental chews. Some are too hard and can fracture a Maltese’s tiny teeth. Instead, use vet-approved enzymatic toothpaste and a soft toothbrush for daily brushing. Dental diets like Hill’s t/d can help, but always check with your vet.
Hydration is key. Provide fresh, clean water at all times. Some Maltese dislike deep bowls. Use a shallow, wide bowl to prevent whisker fatigue.
If your Maltese ever loses appetite, vomits, or has diarrhea for more than 24 hours, consult your veterinarian. These can be signs of a serious condition like pancreatitis or liver disease.
Supplements and Coat Health
A shiny white coat is the Maltese hallmark. While a balanced diet provides most nutrients, some owners add fish oil (omega-3) for skin and coat health. The typical dose for a Maltese is 100-200 mg of combined EPA/DHA daily, but ask your vet first. Overdosing can cause stomach upset. Also, never give vitamin D or calcium supplements without veterinary approval, as they can overdose easily.
Probiotics can help with digestion, especially after antibiotics. Look for a canine-specific probiotic. Again, consult your vet for product recommendations.
Transitioning Foods
When changing your Maltese’s food, do it gradually over 7 days. Mix 25% new food with 75% old food for two days, then 50-50 for two days, then 75% new and 25% old for two days, then 100% new. This reduces digestive upset. If your Maltese develops soft stool or vomiting, slow down the transition. If symptoms persist, see your vet.
Remember, every Maltese is unique. What works for one may not work for another. Keep a food diary to track your dog’s stool quality, energy, and coat condition. Share this with your vet during checkups.
Key Takeaway
Feed your Maltese small, frequent meals of a high-quality small-breed kibble, avoid table scraps, and consult your vet for any dietary concerns.