🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Food

Best Low Calorie Dog Food For Maltese Dogs 2026: 5 Picks Compared

Our editorial team compared low calorie dog foods for Maltese dogs, focusing on small breed size, weight management, and nutritional balance. Find the best options to help your Maltese maintain a healthy weight.

ProPawPicks Editorial Team

Reviewed for accuracy by our editorial team

Updated March 15, 2026

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🐾New to the breed? Read our full Maltese breed guide for temperament, care, health and lifespan.

★ Top Pick: Royal Canin Maltese Adult Dry Dog Food

300 to 380 kcal

Ideal calorie range per cup for Maltese

25 to 30%

Quick answer

The best low calorie dog food for Maltese dogs is Royal Canin Maltese Adult Dry Dog Food, formulated specifically for the breed’s unique needs, with a calorie count around 330 kcal per cup and small kibble. For a budget-friendly option, consider Purina Pro Plan Weight Management Small Breed Formula. If your Maltese has a sensitive stomach, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Sensitive Stomach & Skin is excellent.

What to consider for Low Calorie Dog Food For Maltese Dogs

Maltese dogs are prone to obesity, dental issues, and sensitive digestion. Their small size means they need calorie-dense but portion-controlled food. Look for formulas with high-quality protein to maintain muscle mass while keeping fat and calories moderate. Small kibble size is crucial for their tiny mouths. Also, consider joint support as Maltese can be prone to luxating patella. Always consult your vet for specific calorie needs.

What to look for in a dog food

Choose a food that is AAFCO complete and balanced for adult maintenance or all life stages. The first ingredient should be a named meat source like chicken or lamb. Protein content should be around 25 to 30%, fat around 10 to 15%, and calories between 300 and 380 kcal per cup. For Maltese, small breed formulas are ideal as they have smaller kibble and adjusted nutrient profiles. Look for omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health, and glucosamine for joint support. Avoid excessive fillers like corn or wheat.

How we chose these picks

Evaluated calorie content per cup to ensure low calorie options.
Checked that formulas are specifically designed for small breeds.
Reviewed ingredient lists for high-quality protein sources.
Considered brand reputation and adherence to AAFCO standards.
Looked for added joint and coat support nutrients.
Read customer reviews for palatability and digestive tolerance.
Compared price per pound to offer budget-friendly choices.
Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

Avoid foods with unnamed “meat meal” as the primary protein source.
Do not default to grain-free or legume-heavy recipes; the FDA DCM investigation is ongoing, and grain-inclusive is safer unless your vet advises otherwise.
Skip all-life-stages formulas for puppies; choose a specific puppy food.
Avoid abrupt diet switches; transition gradually over 7 to 10 days.

For more guides, visit our dog guides, dog food, and dog health sections.

Sources and further reading

At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Product	Best For
Royal Canin Maltese Adult Dry Dog Food	Best Overall	Check price →
Hill's Science Diet Small Paws Sensitive Stom…	Best for Sensitive Stomach	Check price →
Purina Pro Plan Weight Management Small Breed…	Best Budget	Check price →
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Weig…	Best Grain-Inclusive	Check price →
Wellness CORE Grain-Free Small Breed Weight M…	Best for Puppies	Check price →

Why this matters

Maltese dogs have a high risk of obesity due to their small size and low activity levels, making calorie-controlled diets essential. Breed-specific formulas like Royal Canin Maltese offer tailored kibble shape and nutrient profiles that support dental health and weight management.

The Options

Types Explained

Dry Kibble

Convenient, shelf-stable, and helps reduce tartar buildup. Most low calorie options are dry. Choose small breed formulas for appropriate kibble size.

Best for: Owners seeking easy storage and dental benefits.

Wet Food

Higher moisture content, which can help with hydration and is often more palatable. However, wet food is typically higher in calories per serving, so portion control is key.

Best for: Maltese with dental issues or picky eaters.

Freeze-Dried Raw

Minimally processed with high protein. Can be rehydrated or fed dry. Often higher in calories, so check the label. Not all are AAFCO complete.

Key Buying Factors

Calorie Density

Low calorie dog food for Maltese should have around 300 to 380 kcal per cup to help maintain a healthy weight without overfeeding.

Small Kibble Size

Maltese have small mouths and teeth, so kibble should be small and easy to chew. Many small breed formulas offer appropriately sized pieces.

Protein Source Quality

Look for a named meat as the first ingredient (e.g., chicken, lamb) to support lean muscle mass. Avoid generic meat meals.

Digestive Health Support

Prebiotics, probiotics, and easily digestible carbohydrates like rice or oatmeal can help prevent stomach upset in sensitive Maltese.

Joint and Coat Nutrients

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids promote a healthy coat, while glucosamine and chondroitin support joint health, important for active small breeds.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Portion Control

Use a measuring cup to feed the recommended amount based on your Maltese's weight and activity level. Divide daily food into two or three small meals to prevent overeating and aid digestion.

Transition Slowly

When switching to a new low calorie food, mix increasing amounts of the new food with the old over 7 to 10 days. This reduces the risk of digestive upset.

Monitor Weight

Weigh your Maltese every two weeks and adjust portions as needed. A healthy weight allows you to feel their ribs without excess fat. Consult your vet for a target weight.

Pro tip

Use a kitchen scale to weigh your Maltese's food portions instead of relying on volume measurements, as kibble size can affect accuracy. This helps ensure precise calorie control for weight management.

Frequently asked questions

How much low calorie dog food should I feed my Maltese?

The amount depends on the food's calorie density and your dog's weight, age, and activity level. As a general guideline, an adult Maltese weighing 4 to 7 pounds may need about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of dry food per day, split into two meals. Always follow the feeding guide on the package, but adjust based on your dog's body condition. Use a measuring cup for accuracy and consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations.

How many calories should a Maltese eat daily?

A typical adult Maltese needs about 150 to 250 calories per day, depending on activity level and metabolism. For weight loss, aim for the lower end of that range. Low calorie dog foods for Maltese usually contain 300 to 380 kcal per cup, so portion control is essential. Use the feeding chart as a starting point and monitor your dog's weight weekly. If your Maltese is not losing weight, reduce portions by 10% and consult your vet.

Is grain-free dog food safe for Maltese?

Grain-free diets have been linked to a potential risk of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in some dogs, according to an ongoing FDA investigation. While the risk is not fully understood, many veterinarians recommend grain-inclusive diets as a safer default unless your dog has a diagnosed grain allergy. If you choose grain-free, look for brands that meet WSAVA guidelines and consult your vet. For most Maltese, a grain-inclusive low calorie food is a good choice.

Can I feed low calorie puppy food to my Maltese puppy?

Puppies have higher energy and nutrient needs than adults, so low calorie adult food is not appropriate. Instead, choose a small breed puppy formula that supports growth without excessive calories. These formulas have balanced protein, fat, and calcium for proper development. Feed according to the puppy's age and weight, and transition to adult food around 12 months of age. Consult your vet for the best timing and food choice.

My Maltese is overweight. What should I do?

First, consult your veterinarian to rule out medical causes and determine a target weight. Then, switch to a low calorie dog food formulated for small breeds, and measure portions carefully. Increase exercise gradually, such as short walks and play sessions. Avoid table scraps and limit treats to 10% of daily calories. Monitor progress with weekly weigh-ins. Weight loss should be slow and steady, about 1 to 2% of body weight per week.

What is the best low calorie dog food for senior Maltese?

Senior Maltese may benefit from a low calorie formula with added joint support (glucosamine and chondroitin) and easily digestible protein. Look for foods labeled for small breed seniors, such as Hill's Science Diet Small Paws 7+ or Royal Canin Maltese Adult 8+. These often have adjusted calorie levels to prevent weight gain as metabolism slows. Also ensure the food contains omega-3s for cognitive health. Always transition slowly and consult your vet.

Is this dog food suitable for all small breeds or just Maltese?

While many low calorie small breed formulas are suitable for Maltese, some are breed-specific, like Royal Canin Maltese, which is tailored to the breed's unique needs (e.g., kibble shape for dental health). General small breed weight management foods can work well too. Always check the calorie content and ingredient quality. If your Maltese has specific health issues, a breed-specific or veterinary diet may be better.

Should I feed dry or wet low calorie food to my Maltese?

Both have pros and cons. Dry kibble is convenient, helps clean teeth, and is usually lower in calories per volume. Wet food has higher moisture, which aids hydration, but often contains more calories per serving. For weight management, dry food is generally easier to portion control. However, you can mix a small amount of wet food for palatability. Ensure the total calories fit your dog's daily allowance. Consult your vet for individual advice.

Can low calorie dog food help with my Maltese's tear stains?

Tear stains are often caused by genetics, allergies, or blocked tear ducts, not directly by calorie content. However, a high-quality diet with limited additives may reduce staining. Some owners find that switching to a food without artificial colors or preservatives helps. Low calorie foods are not specifically designed for tear stains, but a balanced diet supports overall health. Consult your vet for persistent tear stains.

A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.

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