Best Pet Insurance for Malteses
The Maltese is one of the most ancient of all toy breeds, with a history stretching back more than 2,000 years to the Mediterranean island of Malta. These small white dogs were prized by Roman aristocrats, Byzantine emperors, and Tudor royalty. Today's Maltese is a devoted, vivacious, and surprisingly resilient companion in a tiny package. Despite weighing only 4–7 pounds, Maltese have outsized personalities and make confident, affectionate companions. Their long, silky white coat is hypoallergenic and non-shedding. Maltese are generally healthy, long-lived dogs (12–15 years), but their small size creates specific vulnerabilities around dental health, kneecap stability, and blood sugar regulation that require proactive management.
Best Pet Insurance for Malteses (Ranked)
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Score Breakdown
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Maltese Health Risks & Conditions
Understanding your Maltese's specific health risks helps you choose the right coverage.
Patellar Luxation
high riskPatellar luxation is among the most common orthopedic conditions in Maltese. Grades 3–4 require surgical correction ($1,500–$4,500 per knee). Bilateral involvement is common. Early detection through annual orthopedic exams allows for timely surgical intervention before secondary arthritis develops.
Dental Disease
very high riskSevere dental disease is nearly universal in Maltese without proactive management. Their small mouths lead to extreme crowding and early periodontal disease. Professional dental cleanings under anesthesia ($400–$800) are needed every 12–18 months throughout life. Daily tooth brushing from an early age is the most effective prevention. Untreated dental disease leads to tooth loss, jaw bone erosion, and systemic infection.
Tracheal Collapse
moderate riskTracheal collapse in Maltese causes a honking cough, especially with excitement or exercise. Using a harness rather than a neck collar is essential. Medical management ($300–$600/year) controls symptoms in most cases. Severe cases may require tracheal stenting ($3,000–$5,500). Obesity worsens the condition; maintaining a healthy weight is critical.
Portosystemic Shunt
moderate riskPortosystemic shunts (liver shunts) are more common in toy breeds including the Maltese. Blood bypasses the liver, allowing toxins to circulate. Symptoms in puppies include stunted growth, disorientation, and seizures after eating. Surgical correction ($2,500–$8,000) is the definitive treatment. Medical management (lactulose, low-protein diet) controls symptoms when surgery is not feasible.
Hypoglycemia
moderate riskMaltese puppies (and small Maltese adults) are prone to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), particularly during stress, illness, or missed meals. Episodes cause weakness, trembling, and seizures and can be life-threatening. Emergency treatment ($300–$1,500 if hospitalization is required) involves IV dextrose. Prevention includes frequent small meals and keeping corn syrup or Nutri-Cal on hand for early intervention.
What to Look for in Maltese Pet Insurance
Maltese need insurance covering the toy breed triad: patellar luxation, tracheal collapse, and dental disease. A dental illness rider (where offered) is particularly valuable. Portosystemic shunt coverage is important given the breed's predisposition. Top picks: Embrace (dental illness coverage, no hereditary exclusions), Spot (configurable deductibles for toy breed claim patterns), Nationwide (wellness riders for dental cleanings).
Maltese Quick Stats
Common Maltese Health Conditions
All Providers Ranked for Malteses
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Malteses. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Consider alternatives with stronger hereditary condition coverage for Malteses.
Consider alternatives with stronger hereditary condition coverage for Malteses.