Last Updated on July 24, 2025 by Dogs Vets
The Maltese, with its silky white coat, charming personality, and petite size, is a beloved toy breed that has captured hearts for centuries. When you cross this delightful dog with other breeds, you get an array of Maltese mix breeds that combine the best traits of both parents, resulting in adorable, affectionate, and unique companions. If you’re looking for a new furry friend, these 15 Maltese mix breeds will steal your heart and make you eager to welcome one into your home. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the characteristics, personalities, and care needs of these irresistible hybrids to help you find your perfect match.
Why Choose a Maltese Mix Breed?
Maltese mix breeds are a fantastic choice for dog lovers seeking a small, affectionate, and often low-shedding companion. The Maltese parent brings intelligence, playfulness, and a loving nature, while the other parent breed adds unique traits like energy, boldness, or specific physical characteristics. These hybrids are often ideal for families, seniors, or individuals living in apartments due to their small size and adaptable personalities. Plus, their long lifespan of 12–15 years ensures many years of companionship.
Before diving into the list, it’s important to research both parent breeds to understand potential health concerns, grooming needs, and temperaments. This ensures you’re prepared for the unique qualities your Maltese mix may inherit. Let’s explore 15 of the most adorable Maltese mix breeds that are sure to become your new favorite companion!
1. Maltipoo (Maltese x Poodle)
The Maltipoo is one of the most popular Maltese mixes, combining the Maltese with a Poodle. Known for their intelligence, playfulness, and near-hypoallergenic coat, Maltipoos are perfect for allergy sufferers. These small dogs, typically weighing 4–20 pounds, are affectionate, adaptable, and thrive in various living environments, from bustling family homes to quiet apartments. Their curly or wavy coat requires regular brushing and grooming every 4–6 weeks to prevent matting. Maltipoos excel in training, often mastering tricks and agility courses, making them a great choice for first-time dog owners.
Care Tip: Provide mental stimulation with puzzle toys to keep their clever minds engaged.
2. Morkie (Maltese x Yorkshire Terrier)
The Morkie, a cross between a Maltese and a Yorkshire Terrier, is a tiny bundle of energy and affection, typically standing 7–9 inches tall and weighing 4–12 pounds. These dogs are fiercely loyal, often bonding closely with their owners, but they may develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long. Their silky, low-shedding coat requires daily brushing to maintain its luster. Morkies are ideal for families with older children or singles who can give them plenty of attention. Their spunky personality and love for cuddles make them a fan favorite.
Care Tip: Early socialization is key to prevent small dog syndrome and ensure they’re comfortable around strangers.
3. Havamalt (Maltese x Havanese)
The Havamalt, a mix of a Maltese and Havanese, is a gentle, affectionate companion weighing 5–15 pounds. Known for their double coat in colors like white, cream, or silver, Havamalts are loving and thrive on human attention. They adapt well to both active and relaxed lifestyles, making them versatile family pets. Regular grooming, including brushing every other day and monthly baths, keeps their coat healthy. Havamalts are easy to train and get along well with children and other pets, making them a great choice for multi-pet households.
Care Tip: Provide short daily walks to satisfy their moderate energy levels.
4. Malchi (Maltese x Chihuahua)
The Malchi, a Maltese and Chihuahua cross, is a feisty, pint-sized companion with a big personality. Weighing 5–12 pounds, these dogs are energetic, loving, and sometimes protective, requiring early socialization to curb nipping tendencies. They’re best suited for adults or seniors due to their delicate size and sensitivity to rough handling. Their coat, which can be short or medium-length, needs weekly brushing. Malchis are low-maintenance in terms of exercise, with a 20–30-minute walk sufficing.
Care Tip: Use positive reinforcement training to manage their occasional stubbornness.
5. Maltichon (Maltese x Bichon Frise)
The Maltichon combines the Maltese with the Bichon Frise, resulting in a fluffy, social dog that loves to be the center of attention. Typically weighing 8–12 pounds, Maltichons have a soft, wavy coat that requires daily brushing and monthly baths. Their cheerful disposition and intelligence make them easy to train, and they’re great for families or individuals who enjoy an active lifestyle. Maltichons form strong bonds with their owners and may struggle with being left alone.
Care Tip: Regular grooming sessions double as bonding time for this affectionate breed.
6. Mauxie (Maltese x Dachshund)
The Mauxie, or Moxie, is a playful and affectionate mix of a Maltese and Dachshund. Standing 8–10 inches tall, these dogs are known for their curious nature and love for lap time. Their coat can vary from short to medium-length, requiring weekly brushing. Mauxies are energetic and benefit from positive reinforcement training to channel their hound instincts. They’re best for families who can provide supervision around larger dogs due to their small size.
Care Tip: Offer toys for mental stimulation to keep their curious minds occupied.
7. Maltipom (Maltese x Pomeranian)
The Maltipom is a glamorous mix of a Maltese and Pomeranian, known for its fluffy coat and confident personality. Weighing 4–10 pounds, these dogs love to strut their stuff and are perfect for owners who enjoy pampering their pets with stylish haircuts. Maltipoms are alert, clever, and moderately active, requiring daily walks and playtime. Their coat needs daily brushing to prevent tangles. They thrive in homes with adults or older children due to their small size.
Care Tip: Teach tricks to showcase their intelligence and keep them engaged.
8. Malteagle (Maltese x Beagle)
The Malteagle, a cross between a Maltese and Beagle, is a friendly, curious dog that loves to cuddle. Standing under a foot tall and weighing 10–15 pounds, they’re adaptable and great for first-time owners. Their coat, which may be short or medium-length, requires weekly brushing. Malteagles are social and get along well with children and other pets, but their Beagle heritage may make them prone to chasing scents, so a fenced yard is ideal.
Care Tip: Provide regular exercise to satisfy their curious and active nature.
9. Silky Cocker (Maltese x Cocker Spaniel)
The Silky Cocker, a mix of a Maltese and Cocker Spaniel, is a friendly, adaptable dog with a silky coat in colors like black, brown, or cream. Weighing 10–15 pounds, they’re easy to train and make excellent companions for families or singles. Their long, soft fur requires regular brushing and occasional professional grooming. Silky Cockers are energetic and enjoy daily walks or playtime, making them a great fit for active households.
Care Tip: Socialize early to ensure they’re comfortable in various environments.
10. Cav-A-Malt (Maltese x Cavalier King Charles Spaniel)
The Cav-A-Malt is a gentle, affectionate mix of a Maltese and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Weighing 8–15 pounds, these dogs are laid-back and love to cuddle, making them ideal for families or seniors. Their silky coat needs regular brushing to stay tangle-free. Cav-A-Malts are easy to train and get along well with everyone, including children and other pets.
Care Tip: Provide moderate exercise, like short walks, to keep them happy and healthy.
11. Cortese (Maltese x Pembroke Welsh Corgi)
The Cortese, a Maltese and Pembroke Welsh Corgi mix, is a playful, affectionate dog with a lively personality. Weighing 7–15 pounds, they’re intelligent but may have a stubborn streak, requiring consistent training. Their coat, which can be medium-length, needs brushing several times a week. Corteses are great for families who can provide attention and moderate exercise.
Care Tip: Use reward-based training to manage their occasional stubbornness.
12. Malti Pin (Maltese x Miniature Pinscher)
The Malti Pin is an energetic, playful mix of a Maltese and Miniature Pinscher, typically weighing 5–12 pounds. These lively dogs are loyal and make devoted companions for active owners. Their short to medium-length coat requires weekly brushing. Malti Pins are best suited for families with older children due to their high energy levels.
Care Tip: Provide ample playtime to channel their boundless energy.
13. Jatese (Maltese x Japanese Chin)
The Jatese, or Malti-Chin, is a pocket-sized mix of a Maltese and Japanese Chin, weighing 7–12 pounds. Known for their playful and cuddly nature, Jateses are prone to separation anxiety, so they need attentive owners. Their silky coat requires regular baths and brushing. They’re ideal for calm households with adults or older children.
Care Tip: Establish boundaries early to prevent defiant behavior.
14. Lhatese (Maltese x Lhasa Apso)
The Lhatese, a blend of a Maltese and Lhasa Apso, is a clever, friendly dog weighing 7–15 pounds. Their long, silky coat needs daily brushing to prevent tangles, and they’re prone to separation anxiety if left alone for too long. Lhateses are adaptable and make great companions for families who can provide structure and attention.
Care Tip: Offer consistent training to keep their intelligent minds engaged.
15. Cairmal (Maltese x Cairn Terrier)
The Cairmal, a mix of a Maltese and Cairn Terrier, is an intelligent, active dog weighing 10–15 pounds. Known for their stubborn yet charming personality, they require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their coat, which may be wiry or silky, needs weekly brushing. Cairmals are great for active families who can handle their spirited nature.
Care Tip: Provide puzzle toys and training sessions to satisfy their active minds.
Health and Care Considerations for Maltese Mix Breeds
Maltese mix breeds generally enjoy a long lifespan of 12–15 years, but they may inherit health issues from their parent breeds. Common concerns include:
- Cataracts: Regular eye exams can catch this early, with surgery as a treatment option.
- Shaker Syndrome: This affects small white breeds and may cause tremors, treated with medication like prednisone.
- Epiphora (Watery Eyes): Monitor for tear stains, which may indicate allergies or eye issues.
- Dental Health: Small breeds are prone to dental issues, so regular brushing and vet checkups are essential.
Work with a reputable breeder or consider adoption from shelters like Petfinder.com to ensure a healthy pup. Research both parent breeds’ health histories, and consult your vet to create a wellness plan tailored to your dog’s needs.
Grooming Needs for Maltese Mix Breeds
Most Maltese mixes have low-shedding coats, making them suitable for allergy sufferers, but their silky or wavy fur often requires regular grooming. Daily or weekly brushing prevents matting, while baths every 3–4 weeks keep their coat clean. Some mixes, like the Maltipoo or Maltichon, may need professional grooming every 4–6 weeks. Pay attention to ear cleaning and nail trimming to maintain overall health.
Training and Socialization Tips
Maltese mixes are generally intelligent and eager to please, but some, like the Morkie or Cairmal, may inherit a stubborn streak. Use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behavior. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they’re comfortable around other pets, children, and strangers. Expose them to various environments and people from a young age to prevent shyness or territorial behavior.
Are Maltese Mix Breeds Right for You?
Maltese mix breeds are ideal for those seeking a small, affectionate, and adaptable companion. They thrive in homes where they receive plenty of attention and are best suited for families with older children, seniors, or singles. Their small size makes them perfect for apartments, but their grooming and socialization needs require commitment. If you’re ready to provide love, care, and regular grooming, a Maltese mix could be your perfect match.
Where to Find a Maltese Mix Breed
Reputable breeders are a great source for Maltese mix puppies, but adoption is a wonderful option too. Websites like Petfinder.com and Petango.com list Maltese mixes available for adoption. Always verify the breeder’s credentials or the shelter’s reputation to ensure your new companion is healthy and well-cared for.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maltese Mix Breeds
1. Are Maltese mix breeds good for first-time dog owners?
Yes, many Maltese mixes, like the Maltipoo and Cav-A-Malt, are great for first-time owners due to their small size, affectionate nature, and trainability. However, their grooming needs and potential for separation anxiety require commitment and consistency.
2. Do Maltese mix breeds shed a lot?
Most Maltese mixes are low-shedding, especially those crossed with breeds like the Poodle or Bichon Frise. This makes them suitable for allergy sufferers, but regular grooming is essential to maintain their coat and prevent matting.
3. How much exercise do Maltese mix breeds need?
Exercise needs vary by mix. For example, Malteagles and Malti Pins require more activity (30–45 minutes daily), while Malchis and Jateses need less (20–30 minutes). Short walks and playtime are usually sufficient for most.
4. Can Maltese mix breeds live in apartments?
Absolutely! Their small size and adaptable nature make Maltese mixes ideal for apartment living. Ensure they get enough exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
5. What is the lifespan of a Maltese mix breed?
Maltese mix breeds typically live 12–15 years, depending on their health and care. Regular vet checkups, a balanced diet, and proper grooming can help ensure a long, healthy life.
Conclusion
Maltese mix breeds offer a delightful blend of charm, intelligence, and affection, making them wonderful companions for a variety of lifestyles. From the clever Maltipoo to the spunky Morkie, there’s a Maltese mix for every dog lover. By understanding their unique needs and providing proper care, you’ll enjoy years of love and companionship with your new furry friend. Ready to find your perfect Maltese mix? Start your search today and discover the joy these adorable hybrids bring!
Call to Action: Share your favorite Maltese mix breed in the comments below, or contact a reputable breeder or shelter to meet your new best friend!
