The Ultimate Guide to Maltese Regular Checkups and Lifelong Care Schedules

ImmunityBreed HealthMeongsiljang Veterinary Advisory Board

Maltese dogs are prone to heart, dental, and patellar conditions commonly seen in small breeds, so they require careful monitoring. We’ve put together a clear overview of age-specific checkup schedules and lifelong care essentials.

Why Are Regular Checkups and Lifelong Care Important for Maltese?

A Maltese puppy and an adult dog sitting in the living room

Maltese dogs require lifelong vigilance for chronic conditions commonly seen in small breeds, such as dental disease, eye problems, and joint issues. The key is to adhere to age-appropriate screening intervals. Even if your dog appears healthy, the standard recommendation is to have a comprehensive veterinary check-up at least once every 6 to 12 months. However, puppies should visit the clinic more frequently to align with their vaccination schedule, while senior dogs should be examined every six months. In particular, small dogs like Maltese can harbor silent conditions, such as kidney disease, that progress without obvious symptoms despite a healthy appearance. Therefore, regular check-ups, including blood and urine tests, are the most reliable way to detect diseases early.

5 Health Conditions Maltese Dogs Need to Watch Out For

Maltese dogs are prone to several common health issues seen in small breeds, so it’s important to keep an eye on these during check-ups: - Heart valve disease: This condition occurs when the heart valves don’t close properly, allowing blood to leak backward. Regular heart evaluations become increasingly important as your dog ages. - Patellar and joint problems: Orthopedic issues involving the knees, ligaments, and joints are relatively common in small breed dogs. - Periodontal disease: Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in dogs, making regular oral check-ups and care essential. - Eye conditions: Eye issues such as redness and excessive tearing are also common, so they should be checked during routine exams. - Vaccine site vasculitis: Inflammatory reactions at injection sites, including from vaccines, occur more frequently in small breeds like the Maltese.

Maltese Age-Specific Checkup Items at a Glance

Item	Puppy (0–1 yr)	Adult dog (1–7 yrs)	Senior (7+ yrs)
Checkup interval	Every 3–6 months	Once a year	Every 6 months
Basic physical exam	True	True	True
Vaccination	Core vaccines (6–16 weeks, 2–4 week intervals) + rabies (after 12 weeks)	Combination vaccine yearly	At veterinarian's discretion
Cardiac auscultation & echocardiography	Auscultation only	Auscultation (yearly)	Auscultation + ultrasound if needed
Blood test	Basic panel	Basic panel	Extended panel
Dental checkup & scaling	Oral check	At veterinarian's discretion	Reviewed yearly
Patellar palpation	True	True	True
Urine & kidney test	False	Recommended	Recommended

Items and intervals may be adjusted at the veterinarian's discretion

Puppy Stage (0–1 Year) Care Schedule

The period from 6 to 16 weeks of age is the busiest for your puppy’s care. Core vaccinations typically begin at 6–8 weeks, with booster shots given every 2–4 weeks until the puppy reaches 16 weeks. The rabies vaccine is usually administered after 12 weeks of age. The kennel cough (infectious respiratory disease) vaccine is optional; discuss with your veterinarian whether it’s appropriate based on your pet’s living environment. It’s best to schedule your first veterinary visit within one week of bringing your puppy home. During this visit, your vet will perform a basic physical examination, fecal test, and patellar assessment. At around 6 months of age, consult your veterinarian about the timing of spaying or neutering. Since Maltese dogs are small in size, it’s recommended to conduct pre-anesthetic blood tests to ensure they’re healthy enough for surgery. Before your dog turns one year old, check whether all baby teeth have fallen out. If any retained baby teeth remain, consider having them extracted at the same time as the spay or neuter procedure.

A veterinarian examining a Maltese puppy with a stethoscope

Adult Stage (1–7 Years) Care Schedule

This stage is often called the "prime of life" because pets appear to be in their best health, but it is actually when the seeds of chronic disease begin to take root. Annual comprehensive check-ups are essential, and you should never skip the yearly heart auscultation and patellar palpation. From ages 2 to 3, tartar buildup begins in earnest. You should evaluate whether professional scaling under general anesthesia is needed every one to two years. Starting at age 5, blood tests must include liver and kidney panels, and if any heart murmurs are detected, an echocardiogram should be performed within that same year.

Stage-Specific Signs Maltese Dogs Need to Watch Out For

If your pet coughs with a dry, hacking "ker-ker" sound or suddenly stops and pants heavily during walks, these could be early signs of heart disease. Additionally, the "skipping" motion of lifting one leg and hopping is a classic symptom of patellar luxation. If you notice any of these signs, don't wait for the next scheduled check-up; visit the vet immediately.

Senior Stage (7+ Years) Care Schedule

Maltese dogs are generally considered senior around the age of seven. It’s a good idea to shorten check-up intervals to every six months and include the following items at each visit: - Comprehensive blood work: Complete blood count and serum biochemistry tests to assess organ function, including the liver and kidneys - Cardiac auscultation and examination: If murmurs or other abnormalities are detected, your veterinarian may recommend an echocardiogram - Urinalysis: To evaluate kidney function at an early stage - Thoracic radiographs: Used as a screening tool to assess heart and lung health when necessary - Ophthalmic examination: To monitor for the progression of eye diseases As dogs age, cognitive decline and organ-related diseases can progress without obvious symptoms. That’s why regular check-ups are essential for consistently tracking even subtle changes.

A senior Maltese being held by its owner during a veterinary checkup

Home Care to Maintain on Days You Don’t Visit the Vet

Daily home care is just as important as regular checkups. Try incorporating the following into your routine: - Brushing teeth: Brush once daily using dog-specific toothpaste. - Wiping around the eyes: Use lukewarm water daily to prevent tear staining. - Weight management: The most effective way to reduce strain on the patella and heart. - Ear cleaning: Clean once every two weeks, paying attention to moisture between white hairs. - Nail trimming: Trim every three to four weeks; this also helps prevent patellar luxation. - Measuring food portions: Avoid estimating by eye; always use a measuring cup.

Go to the Vet Immediately If You See These Signs

The following symptoms may indicate an emergency. Even at night, you should go to a 24-hour animal hospital. - Cyanosis (blue discoloration of the tongue and gums) - Sudden difficulty breathing or refusal to breathe while lying down - Complete refusal to eat or drink for more than 24 hours - Black or bright red blood in stool or vomit - Decreased consciousness, seizures, or complete inability to bear weight on one leg In particular, if persistent coughing resembling a goose honk does not stop, it may indicate a tracheal issue. Do not wait for your next regular checkup; seek immediate veterinary care.

Reviewed by a veterinarian

Dr. Tony — Punnawat Phongkittirak

Veterinarian

A veterinarian who majored in veterinary medicine at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, and completed the IVSA program at North Carolina State University in the United States. Drawing on clinical experience at animal hospitals, he works in the pet healthcare field and is dedicated to building a digital care environment that connects pet parents with veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maltese Regular Checkups

How much does a comprehensive health check-up for a Maltese typically cost?

Costs vary significantly depending on the clinic and specific tests, but a basic comprehensive checkup for adult dogs (including blood and urine tests, heart auscultation, and a physical exam) typically ranges from $100 to $200. For senior dogs, an expanded checkup (including an echocardiogram and an extended blood panel) usually costs between $200 to $400. For an accurate estimate, please contact your regular veterinary clinic.

Even if my pet looks healthy, is it really necessary to have an annual check-up?

Yes, it is absolutely necessary. In Maltises, organ diseases such as those affecting the kidneys, liver, and heart often progress without obvious symptoms, and by the time they are detected, the condition is frequently quite advanced. Even for dogs that appear healthy, it is recommended to undergo check-ups every 6 to 12 months, including blood and urine tests, to identify any abnormalities at an early stage.

When should dental scaling begin, and how often should it be performed?

Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs, making regular oral care essential. Because the rate of tartar buildup varies from dog to dog, there’s no one-size-fits-all schedule for dental cleanings. It’s best to have your dog’s mouth checked during annual wellness exams and let your veterinarian determine whether a cleaning is needed and how often it should be performed.

How long do Maltese dogs typically live?

Lifespan varies significantly by breed and individual, so it’s difficult to pin down an exact number. What is clear, however, is that regular check-ups and weight management help detect diseases early and maintain consistent care, greatly contributing to a longer, healthier life. The earlier you start senior care, the better.

Do pets need to receive vaccinations every year for their entire lives?

Vaccination schedules can vary depending on your pet’s immune status and living environment. In senior pets, the types and frequency of vaccines are often adjusted in consultation with your veterinarian, so it’s best to work with your vet to create a vaccination plan tailored to your pet’s individual needs.