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Honest Breed Review
Maltese
8.5
Reality Score / 10
Take quiz for your Honest Fit Score
👉 Long-lived hypoallergenic companion perfect for apartments - but fragile enough that a small fall can cause injury and high grooming needs are a real ongoing cost.

A 2000-year history as a companion breed.

Year 1 Cost Estimate
$3,200 to $6,000
Includes purchase, first-year vet care, vaccines, spay/neuter, and supplies. Rescue path costs significantly less — take the quiz to see both paths.
Pros
Truly hypoallergenic Long lifespan 12 to 15 years Perfect apartment size
Cons
Fragile - not for rough handling High grooming maintenance Separation anxiety common
Health Issues
Patellar luxation Dental disease very common White shaker syndrome Hypoglycemia in puppies

Full health screening checklist included in the paid report.

✓ No common insurance restrictions
🐶 Rescue: Sometimes found in rescue
Recommended Starter Kit
MidWest iCrate 24" Dog Crate →Rabbitgoo No-Pull Dog Harness →Purina Pro Plan Small Breed →KONG Classic Dog Toy →Nina Ottosson Puzzle Feeder →Bully Sticks Bulk Pack →Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed →Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush →Zesty Paws 8-in-1 Multivitamin Chews →

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Rescue vs Breeder cost split, 3-year projection, training timeline, and breeder checklist are in the full report.

Get Your Personalized Honest Fit Score

The Reality Score above is our honest breed assessment. Your Honest Fit Score is personalized to your home, lifestyle, and budget — take the free quiz to find out.

Take the Free Quiz →Free • 10 questions • Results in 3 minutes

The paid report includes your personalized score for Maltese plus 3 other matched breeds, 3-year cost projection, training timeline, and breeder checklist.

Get the Full Report after your quiz →

For informational purposes only. Not veterinary, insurance, or financial advice. Individual dogs vary significantly. Always consult a licensed veterinarian. Full Terms