Skip to Content

Why Maltese Dogs are Expensive? (Reasons Explained!)

Maltese are one of the famous and expensive breed dogs. Most people and celebrities like to own Maltese dogs for their small size and adorable behavior. That’s why Maltese are becoming demandable day by day. Having the Maltese in the house is like having a sweet companion with you.  

If you are thinking about buying a Maltese, you need to know about the expense. Maltese are often expensive. Well, there lies pretty apparent reasons why Maltese dogs are expensive. This article will inform you of the reasons for being Maltese so expensive.

Why Maltese dogs are so expensive?

Maltese dogs are expensive for being purebred. The breeder has to run some tests to ensure that the Maltese are genetically sound. Moreover, feeding, vaccine, and health check-ups for Maltese before 8 weeks also require costs. Maltese dogs are expensive to buy because of these expenses.

Maltese are a unique type of dog. They need regular maintenance from an early age. Because some Maltese are not purebred. These Maltese are prone to health issues. So, the breeder has to provide a health guarantee before giving for adoption. These medical issues cost a lot.

The owner has to bear some other expenses, such as registration, spaying, grooming, crate, leash, toys, etc. Moreover, Maltese is one of the top breeds and is liked by celebrities. These characteristics make Maltese dogs so expensive.

Reason’s why Maltese puppies are so expensive

Maltese are pretty expensive compared to other dogs. Especially when you are taking one as a puppy. Let’s see what the reasons behind Maltese puppies are expensive.

Breeding:

Maltese are breed dogs. They have a lot of exciting features. That’s why their breeding is pretty expensive.

Delivery of the puppy:

Almost all female Maltese have to have a vet to deliver their puppies. This delivery is done by C- section.  C-section is a costly operation. Moreover, while doing a C-section, Maltese do very poorly with anesthesia.

That’s why Maltese need to stay at the hospital for a relatively long time.

Testing and medicine:

For checking whether the Maltese dogs’ are genetically sound or not, some tests are required. The breeder has to run the tests and bear the expense of medicine before 8 weeks of age. 

Vet care:

Maltese can be sensitive sometimes. Moreover, they are prone to some health issues, such as eye problems, licking, leg problems, etc. So, regular vet care is necessary for them. These visits to the vet require some expenses.

Maltese Litter:

Maltese average litter size is 2-4 puppies per litter. This rate is not very high. So, getting Maltese can be difficult sometimes. That’s why Maltese are expensive to get.

How expensive are Maltese puppies?

Maltese puppies are relatively expensive than other puppies. But their price range can change with breed quality and breeder’s standard.

Generally, you can get a Maltese puppy between $600-$3000. But it would help if you consider the price for the quality of the Maltese. You can get a Maltese puppy with good health and care between $2000-$3000.

The price of male and female Maltese puppies is different. Generally, a female Maltese puppy is more expensive than a male Maltese puppy. Besides, the expenses also depend on medicine, training, medical check-ups, delivery, feeding, etc.

How expensive are Maltipoos?

Maltipoos are breed dogs of Maltese and Poodle. They are affordable. But their price range is quite similar to the Maltese. A Maltipoo can range from $400 to $4000.

The price can be high. But you can get a good quality Maltipoo between $700-$800. Their price can vary for different reasons.

For example, if you take a Maltipoo from a shelter, the price will be reasonable. But if you take a Maltipoo from a reputable breeder, the price will be high.

The range of Maltipoos price varies so much because of some factors. The key factors for which the price changes are coat color, breeder reputation, location, health issues, etc.

How expensive are teacup Maltese?

Teacup Maltese are small size Maltese dogs. They are pretty different from the Maltese because of their delicate bodies, other health issues, and special dietary requirements. Their price range is also different from Maltese.

You can get a teacup Maltese between $750-$2500. A teacup Maltese with a good health condition and high quality is not less than $200. Teacup Maltese are relatively more expensive than the Maltese.

Teacup Maltese are pretty rare, and their maintenance is also hard. That’s why they are comparatively expensive.

How much does a Maltese Pomeranian cost?

All Maltese Pomeranians are not extremely expensive. You can get a Maltese Pomeranian at a reasonable price. The price range is between $700-$2500. The average price is $700.

You can also find a top breed and a superior pedigree at a higher price. Even you can get a Maltipom up to $6500. Because the Maltese and Pomeranian both breeds are expensive. So, the higher price should not be shocking.

How much do Maltese Shih Tzu puppies cost?

Maltese Shih Tzu puppies are not expensive at all. You can get a Maltese Shih Tzu puppy at a reasonable price. The average price range of a Maltese Shih Tzu is between $500 – $700.

Adult Shih Tzu Maltese are comparatively cheaper. The price of Maltese Shih Tzu puppy can be around $250 if you get the puppy off Craigslist. If you get the puppy from a registered breeder, the price can be a little higher than $700.

How much does a purebred Maltese cost?

Generally, Maltese is a working dog breed. They are playful, active, agile, and friendly to all. They are one of the ancient dog breeds. That’s why purebred Maltese are relatively expensive.

You can get a purebred Maltese with a regular family record of not less than $750. The average price range is from $800 to $950. You can also get some purebred Maltese puppies at a lower price. The price range of these puppies is from $400 to $600.

But lower range puppies have some defects or less desired qualities, such as they don’t have a snow-white coat. They have a combination of colors or common colors such as black and white, brown, etc.

How do I know if my Maltese is purebred?

Identifying a purebred Maltese is not that difficult. You can know whether your Maltese dog is purebred or not by observing some of their physical appearances. Maltese dogs’ features and characteristics are pretty similar for both puppies and adult dogs. 

First of all, you can notice the body structure of your Maltese. Generally, a purebred Maltese has a rounded head on top held by the neck in the correct position. His chest should be deep. Besides, His tail should be curled and plumed.

A purebred Maltese also has a unique appearance and specific color. His coat color should be pure white. Though his ear can be tan, lemon, or light colors, his hair should be silky and thin.

Another essential feature is the face of a purebred Maltese. The face should be round with black or brown eyes. Though the skin around the eyes and mouth can be discolored, the facial hair should be white.

These are the specifications you can notice in your Maltese. If these characteristics match your dog, he might be a purebred Maltese.

What should I look for when buying a Maltese puppy?

Buying a Maltese puppy is not very easy. Maltese can be found in a lot of variations. So, you have to keep in mind some things before buying a Maltese puppy. Let’s see what you can notice while buying a Maltese puppy.

  • You should know the breed and breeder’s information before buying a Maltese puppy.
  • You should see the health issues of a Maltese dog.
  • You should know the vet information and contacting info of the hospital.
  • You should see the personality of a Maltese.
  • You should know the grooming process of the Maltese.

Are Maltese high maintenance?

Yes, Maltese dogs are high maintenance. They need regular care and grooming, including brushing, combing, and shearing. Because of their small size, they are very fragile. So, regular check-ups require for Maltese.

Generally, Maltese are companion dogs. Sometimes they suffer from loneliness and anxiety. So, regular care and companionship are a must for them. Moreover, they should get proper nutrition and medicine. That means Maltese are high maintenance.

Maltese are white breed dogs with active and playful behavior. They are one of the most demandable breed dogs. Most celebrities like them for their elegant look and affectionate behavior.

But Maltese can be expensive. Their expense differs for many factors. If you want to buy a Maltese, ensure the characteristics you want to have in your dog. Also, get to know the breeder for getting a healthy Maltese. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

When do Maltese start barking?

Do Maltese like to cuddle?

Should I get 2 Maltese puppies?

Foods, Fruits & Vegetables – What Can & Can’t Maltese Eat?

How can I get my Maltese to eat?

How can I make my Maltese happy?