The Teacup Maltese is a beloved breed known for its tiny size and big personality. On average, they weigh between 4-8 pounds.
Their small stature is due to selective breeding, which has resulted in a compact body type. This breeding has also led to a lifespan of around 12-15 years, making them a long-term companion.
Maltese are a toy breed, and as such, their adult height typically ranges from 8-10 inches.
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Teacup Maltese Size and Growth
A teacup Maltese typically weighs between 2-4 pounds as an adult, with some reaching up to 7 pounds.
According to the Maltese Weight Chart, at birth, Maltese puppies weigh between 3.5 oz and 6 oz. By 1 week, they weigh between 5 and 10 pounds, and by 2 weeks, they weigh between 7 and 14 pounds.
Here's a rough breakdown of a teacup Maltese's growth stages:
As you can see, teacup Maltese grow at a relatively slow pace, and their adult weight can vary.
Size and Lifespan
A Maltese typically grows to be less than seven pounds as an adult, with an ideal weight of four to six pounds for pet shows.
The American Kennel Club Official Maltese Breed Standards state that an adult Maltese should weigh less than seven pounds and stand between seven to nine inches tall.
Maltese puppies grow at their own pace, but here's a rough estimate of their weight by age:
Male and female Maltese sizes are generally the same, making this breed a great choice for families with both boys and girls.
Maltese typically live for 12-15 years, which is a long and happy life for such a small dog.
Breeders
Most reputable breeders prioritize the health and well-being of their Maltese puppies, often conducting regular health checks and genetic testing to identify potential issues.
Some breeders specialize in producing "teacup" Maltese, which are actually a marketing term and not a recognized breed standard.
Responsible breeders will typically provide health clearances for their breeding dogs and guarantee the health of their puppies for a certain period.
Breeders who prioritize the size of their Maltese may inadvertently create health problems, such as hypoglycemia and dental issues, due to the breed's small size.
A good breeder will also socialize their puppies from an early age to ensure they are friendly and outgoing.
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Full-Grown Teacup Maltese
A full-grown Teacup Maltese typically weighs less than seven pounds.
They stand between seven to nine inches tall, although four to six pounds is considered the ideal weight for these dogs, especially for pet shows.
Most Teacup Maltese puppies will finish growing around six to eight months of age, reaching their final weight and height much quicker than many dogs.
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Teacup Maltese Characteristics
The Teacup Maltese breed is a small but mighty companion. They typically reach a height of 7-9 inches.
Their weight is equally impressive, ranging from 2-4 pounds. In fact, they shouldn't weigh more than 7 pounds. This makes them a great choice for apartment dwellers.
Teacup Maltese have a beautiful, long, and silky coat that requires moderate grooming. You can expect to spend some time each week brushing their beautiful locks.
Their coat comes in a variety of colors, including yellowish lemon, light tan, and pristine white. Whatever color you choose, you'll love their friendly and loyal nature.
Here are some key characteristics of the Teacup Maltese breed:
Teacup Maltese are generally good with children, but they do require supervision. They're also good with pets, but again, supervision is key.
Teacup Maltese Care and Grooming
Your Teacup Maltese needs regular exercise, but not too much too soon. Experts recommend waiting until your puppy is at least 8 months old to walk a long distance, as their bones are still growing.
You'll also want to keep your Teacup Maltese indoors, especially in extreme weather conditions. They don't handle cold or heat well, so it's best to paper-train them to avoid accidents.
As your Teacup Maltese matures, you can start introducing more physical activity, but always check with a vet first to ensure you're not putting too much strain on their developing bones.
Care
Your Teacup Maltese needs patience and care, especially when it comes to exercise. Wait until your Teacup Maltese is at least 8 months old to walk a long distance.
Teacup Maltese puppies need to be protected from overexertion, so keep them playing inside a fenced area until they reach maturity.
As house dogs, Teacup Maltese don't handle extreme temperatures well, so be prepared for paper training in case of bad weather.
Allowing your Teacup Maltese to play in a fenced area will help them stay safe and healthy until they reach maturity.
Being a social and enthusiastic breed, your Teacup Maltese will appreciate a gentle and gradual exercise program, so get them checked by a vet before starting any activity.
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Grooming
Teacup Maltese grooming is a crucial aspect of their care. They require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling of their long, silky coats.
Their coats should be brushed at least 3-4 times a week, with daily brushing recommended for puppies. This helps prevent hair from getting knotted and reduces shedding.
Teacup Maltese are prone to tear staining, so regular cleaning of their eyes is essential. This involves gently wiping the corners of their eyes with a damp cloth.
Their nails should be trimmed every 4-6 weeks to prevent overgrowth. Long nails can cause discomfort and lead to health issues.
Regular dental care is also vital for Teacup Maltese. Their teeth should be brushed at least 2-3 times a week to prevent tartar buildup and promote good oral health.
Bathtime is a delicate matter for Teacup Maltese, as they can be prone to skin allergies. A gentle, pH-balanced shampoo should be used, and baths should be kept to a minimum.
Teacup Maltese Temperament and Needs
Just like any other puppy, teacup Maltese have big personalities despite their small size. They require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
You need to exercise your teacup Maltese regularly, not just because they're cute, but because they need physical and mental stimulation.
Dog Temperament
The Teacup Maltese temperament is a big deal, and for good reason! They're known for being gentle and affectionate, making them a great companion for families with children.
Teacup Maltese are highly social dogs that thrive on human interaction, requiring regular attention and playtime to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They're not suited for households with very young children, as they can be fragile and may not tolerate rough play.
These tiny dogs are intelligent and trainable, but they can be stubborn at times, requiring patient and consistent training methods. With positive reinforcement and early socialization, Teacup Maltese can learn to behave well in public and around other pets.
Teacup Maltese are generally quiet dogs, but they do bark to alert their owners to potential threats or to get attention. Early training and socialization can help minimize excessive barking.
Their small size and gentle nature make them a great fit for apartment living, as long as they receive regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Exercise Needs
Exercise needs are crucial for teacup Maltese puppies, despite their small size.
You should not make the mistake of carrying your teacup puppy, as they need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Just like any other puppy, teacup Maltese require daily walks and playtime to burn off excess energy and prevent destructive behavior.
Even short, gentle play sessions can be beneficial, such as tossing a toy or playing with a feather teaser.
Don't underestimate the importance of exercise for your teacup Maltese - it's essential for their physical and mental well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a teacup Maltese and a Maltese?
A "teacup" Maltese refers to a puppy or adult weighing 3-5 pounds, while a standard Maltese can weigh up to 9 pounds. This size difference is a key distinction between the two.
Sources
- https://www.pawlicy.com/blog/maltese-growth-and-weight-chart/
- https://medium.com/@othmaneothmaneel/teacup-maltese-dog-complete-breed-profile-size-temperament-334f02ce1dc1
- https://www.thedailytail.com/teacup-maltese/
- https://www.petmoo.com/dogs/teacup-maltese/
- https://thehappypuppysite.com/teacup-maltese/
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