The Maltese is a gentle, affectionate small companion dog that has been a favourite lap dog for centuries. Sweet-natured and people-focused, the Maltese suits apartments, families and quieter homes, and it is one of the more common small breeds in Sydney rescue, often arriving as an older dog, an ex-breeding dog or a companion given up after a change in the household. Many are seniors who make wonderfully calm, devoted companions.
Maltese are low-energy dogs that need only gentle daily exercise, but the long white coat needs real grooming commitment: regular brushing to prevent matting, and either professional grooming or a practical shorter clip. Watch the eyes and teeth, as the breed is prone to tear staining and dental issues. They can pick up small-dog habits like barking and separation-related behaviour if over-indulged, which reward gentle, consistent training.
For an owner who wants a devoted, gentle, indoor-oriented companion and can keep up with the grooming, a rescue Maltese is a lovely dog, and adopting an older one gives a deserving senior a comfortable home. Browse the Maltese and Maltese crosses listed below from rescues and shelters across Sydney and New South Wales.
Showing 4 dogs
Betty
About 11 years old • Maltese X
Monika's Doggie Rescue
Cheeky
About 5 years old • Maltese X Shih Tzu
Monika's Doggie Rescue
Mimi
About 13 years old • Maltese X
Monika's Doggie Rescue
Mocha
About 7 years old • Jack Russell Terrier X Maltese
Monika's Doggie Rescue
Maltese Adoption FAQ
Are Maltese good for first-time or older owners?
Yes, the Maltese is one of the better small breeds for first-time and older owners. It is gentle, affectionate, low-energy and content in an apartment or a quiet home, needing only light daily exercise. The main commitments are grooming the long coat and gentle, consistent training to avoid small-dog habits like excessive barking. Adopting an adult or senior Maltese suits a calmer household beautifully.
How much grooming does a Maltese need?
A fair amount if the coat is kept long: regular brushing several times a week to prevent painful matting, plus periodic professional grooming or a bath and tidy. Many owners choose a shorter practical clip, which is far lower maintenance and well suited to the Sydney climate. Eyes need gentle cleaning to manage tear staining, and teeth need regular care because the breed is prone to dental disease.
Why are Maltese common in Sydney rescue?
As a very popular small breed they are widely bred, and some come into rescue as older dogs, as retired breeding dogs, or when a household changes. Small breeds also live long lives, so seniors needing a new home are common. This means lovely, gentle Maltese, including many calm seniors, are often available and sometimes wait for adopters who overlook older dogs.
Are Maltese good with children and other pets?
Generally yes, with sensible supervision. Maltese are gentle and affectionate and usually get along with other dogs and cats. Because they are tiny and delicate, they suit homes with older, gentle children rather than boisterous toddlers, as a small dog can be injured by rough handling. Sydney rescues assess each dog and note how it is with children and other pets in its profile.