The Maltese dog is a loving, loyal, and affectionate toy breed that thrives on companionship. Known for their elegant white coat and bright personality, Maltese pups are incredibly social and bond deeply with their humans. But did you know that many Maltese dogs also enjoy having a furry friend by their side?
Whether you’re considering adding another dog to your family or just curious about what breeds get along best with the Maltese, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know. From temperament to activity level, we’ll break down the top dog breeds that make the best companions for the Maltese — and help you make the perfect match.
Why the Right Companion Dog Matters for a Maltese
Before we dive into the best breeds to pair with your Maltese, it’s important to understand what makes a good companion in the first place. Maltese dogs typically weigh under 7 pounds and have a gentle, people-oriented nature. Because they’re small and sensitive, they do best with other dogs who:
- Are similarly sized or gentle in play
- Have a calm or friendly temperament
- Can match their energy level (typically moderate)
- Are affectionate and bond well with other dogs
- Don’t exhibit dominant or overly aggressive behavior
Adding a second dog can provide your Maltese with companionship, mental stimulation, and even help reduce separation anxiety when you’re not around. However, the success of a multi-dog household hinges on choosing the right match.
Top 10 Best Dog Breeds for the Maltese
Below are the best dog breeds that tend to get along beautifully with the Maltese. We’ll cover size, temperament, activity level, and other factors to help you make the best decision.
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Breed Size: 13–18 lbs
Temperament: Affectionate, friendly, and gentle
Energy Level: Moderate
Lifespan: 12–15 years
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Breed Size: 13–18 lbs Temperament: Affectionate, friendly, and gentle Energy Level: Moderate Lifespan: 12–15 years
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an excellent choice as a companion for the Maltese. Both breeds are affectionate, social, and happiest when they’re by your side—or each other’s. Cavaliers are gentle by nature and love to cuddle, which complements the Maltese’s loving demeanor perfectly. They’re not overly dominant, and their friendly attitude makes integration smooth.
One of the standout qualities of Cavaliers is their adaptable nature. Whether you live in an apartment, a townhouse, or a spacious home with a yard, Cavaliers adjust well to various living environments—just like Maltese. This makes them an ideal sibling for a Maltese in households of all sizes.
Cavaliers are also known for their sociability. They enjoy meeting new people and pets, which helps in maintaining a peaceful and friendly household dynamic. If your Maltese already shows signs of being a social butterfly, a Cavalier can provide that same enthusiastic energy without overwhelming them.
Both breeds are considered “velcro dogs,” meaning they like to stay close to their humans. This shared trait fosters harmony and reduces the chance of rivalry for attention. Whether it’s lounging on the couch, following you from room to room, or relaxing in a cozy bed, both dogs will enjoy companionship without feeling left out.
They also share similar grooming needs and exercise requirements, making daily routines easier for pet parents. While both breeds require regular brushing and the occasional trim, neither sheds excessively, which is a bonus for those concerned about allergies or mess. Exercise-wise, both enjoy moderate walks and interactive playtime, but neither requires intense exercise, making them suitable for a variety of lifestyles including those of older adults or busy professionals.
This breed pairing also tends to do well in structured training programs. Cavaliers, like Maltese, are intelligent and eager to please, which allows for consistent training using positive reinforcement. Their emotional intelligence helps them pick up on the needs of their companion, creating a respectful and balanced bond.
In short, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Maltese duo is a match made in canine heaven. They bring out the best in each other and thrive in the kind of nurturing, love-filled environment that pet parents aim to provide.
External Link: Learn more about the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel from the AKC
2. Havanese
Breed Size: 7–13 lbs
Temperament: Social, cheerful, and trainable
Energy Level: Moderate
Lifespan: 14–16 years
The Havanese is another toy breed that matches the Maltese in size, energy level, and temperament. These dogs are cheerful, adaptable, and known for their love of companionship—whether it’s human or canine. Havanese are playful without being overly hyper, making them a good match for the more refined Maltese.
One of the most appealing aspects of the Havanese is their ability to bond deeply with both their human families and other dogs. Their social, pack-oriented mindset means they often thrive in homes with multiple pets. When paired with a Maltese, their cooperative nature fosters a peaceful and playful relationship. They’re also very intuitive, often sensing the emotional state of their housemates, which helps them adapt well to the temperament of a Maltese.
Havanese are naturally curious and love exploring their environment. Their curious nature can help encourage a slightly more reserved Maltese to come out of their shell and engage with the world. Because both breeds are playful but not hyperactive, they balance each other out well during play sessions, snuggling time, and walks.
Both breeds are intelligent and respond well to training. Their eagerness to please makes them ideal candidates for obedience classes and tricks training. They are also food-motivated, which makes positive reinforcement techniques especially effective when training them as a duo.
Grooming-wise, Havanese and Maltese both have beautiful, long, silky coats that require regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Neither breed sheds much, making them excellent companions for those with allergies or those who prefer a tidier home. If you’re already used to grooming a Maltese, adding a Havanese to your routine won’t be a drastic adjustment.
In terms of health and lifespan, both breeds are relatively robust and long-lived when properly cared for. Their similar size and exercise needs mean you can maintain a consistent schedule for walks, feeding, and playtime, making life easier for you and more enjoyable for them.
Whether you live in a small apartment or a larger home, the Havanese and Maltese pair will adapt and thrive together. Their shared need for companionship, similar grooming routines, and loving personalities make them a heartwarming duo that can bring joy and harmony to any household.
External Link: Discover more about the Havanese at DogTime
3. Bichon Frise
Breed Size: 12–18 lbs
Temperament: Playful, affectionate, and gentle
Energy Level: Moderate
Lifespan: 14–15 years
The Bichon Frise is a fantastic match for a Maltese thanks to its bubbly, joyful nature. Both breeds are hypoallergenic, small, and known for their social tendencies. Bichons are curious and active but not aggressive, which makes them perfect for the Maltese’s sensitive nature.
These dogs bring an uplifting, vibrant energy into any home. Their natural cheerfulness and willingness to play can help draw out the more reserved Maltese, encouraging healthy interaction and exercise. The Bichon is particularly good at reading social cues from other dogs, which helps avoid conflicts and makes them an ideal choice for homes with small, sensitive breeds.
Because Bichons thrive on human and canine companionship, they quickly bond with other pets in the household. They enjoy group play, shared naps, and synchronized routines, making the transition into a two-dog home smoother. Their affectionate demeanor ensures that both they and your Maltese will feel loved and supported, both by their humans and each other.
Bichons can bring out the playful side of a Maltese, while still respecting boundaries. This balanced dynamic is essential for fostering a healthy, enriching relationship where neither dog feels overwhelmed or neglected. Whether it’s playing with toys, engaging in light wrestling, or simply curling up for a nap, the two breeds naturally align in temperament and behavior.
Grooming can be intensive with both breeds, so owners should be prepared for daily brushing and regular professional grooming sessions. The Bichon’s plush, curly coat requires special attention to prevent matting, while the Maltese’s silky hair must also be detangled and maintained regularly. While this grooming routine can be time-consuming, many owners find it to be a bonding experience that strengthens the human-dog relationship.
Moreover, both the Bichon and Maltese are relatively long-lived, making them ideal companions for owners seeking long-term harmony between pets. Their similar dietary, activity, and environmental needs also streamline care and scheduling.
In terms of adaptability, both breeds do well in various living situations, from cozy apartments to larger homes. They are quiet, gentle, and well-mannered indoors, which makes them ideal for families, singles, or seniors who want loving, low-shedding dogs that coexist peacefully.
External Link: Read more about the Bichon Frise from VetStreet
4. Pomeranian
Breed Size: 3–7 lbs
Temperament: Curious, confident, and lively
Energy Level: Moderate to high
Lifespan: 12–16 years
Pomeranians are small, spunky dogs full of personality. They can make excellent companions for Maltese dogs, especially when properly socialized from a young age. Despite their boldness, Poms are not usually aggressive, and their size makes them physically compatible with Maltese pups.
These tiny dynamos are known for their big-dog attitude in a small package. While they might appear assertive or fearless, they are generally affectionate, loyal, and enjoy forming strong bonds with both humans and other dogs. When paired with the affectionate and sensitive Maltese, a Pomeranian’s zest for life can add a vibrant dynamic to the household. Their contrasting but complementary personalities help strike a unique balance: the Pomeranian brings energy and excitement, while the Maltese adds calm and stability.
This pairing works best when the Pomeranian’s energetic bursts are balanced with enough training and routine. Poms are naturally inquisitive and active, and they thrive on mental stimulation and physical play. This can be a great motivator for the Maltese to stay engaged and active as well. However, it’s important to manage their energy levels to prevent overwhelming their gentler companion. Structured play sessions, puzzle toys, and short walks can help keep both dogs mentally sharp and physically fit.
Both breeds are highly alert and can be vocal, which makes them good watchdogs but also requires early behavioral training. Teaching commands like “quiet” or rewarding calm behavior can go a long way in keeping a peaceful home. Socialization from an early age, especially with other dogs and people, is also key to preventing territorial or attention-seeking behavior.
In terms of grooming, both dogs require consistent care. Pomeranians have a thick double coat that benefits from frequent brushing to prevent matting and control shedding. Though the Maltese has a single, silky coat, the grooming needs are similar in frequency. Owners who are already committed to grooming their Maltese will find the Pomeranian’s grooming needs manageable and easy to incorporate into their routine.
Poms are incredibly loyal and often form tight-knit bonds with their companions, including fellow canines. Their enthusiasm for play and cuddles means they will likely bond quickly with a Maltese, forming a lasting friendship that enriches both dogs’ lives.
Ultimately, the Pomeranian-Maltese pair works best in households that can offer routine, patience, and lots of love. If you’re looking for a pairing full of charm, energy, and affection, these two toy breeds can be a delightful and dynamic match.
5. Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie)
Breed Size: 4–7 lbs
Temperament: Bold, loving, and devoted
Energy Level: Moderate
Lifespan: 11–15 years
Yorkies and Maltese are often seen as a natural duo. In fact, there’s even a popular hybrid breed called the Morkie, which blends the two. Yorkies are loyal, smart, and share a similar grooming need, size, and personality profile with the Maltese.
These two toy breeds are both known for their strong bonds with their human families and their affectionate, spirited personalities. While Yorkies can be more confident and adventurous, and Maltese are typically more refined and calm, the contrast in energy can help balance their dynamic. The Yorkie may encourage the Maltese to explore and play more, while the Maltese offers a calming influence on the energetic Yorkie.
Both breeds are alert and can be quite vocal, so early training is important to avoid excessive barking. Socialization and training help ensure they learn to share space, toys, and attention peacefully. Positive reinforcement and consistent routines will help both dogs feel secure and valued within the household.
In terms of size and exercise needs, these breeds are highly compatible. A pair of Yorkie and Maltese can enjoy short daily walks, indoor playtime, and snuggle sessions without requiring intense physical exertion. This makes them a particularly good match for apartment dwellers, seniors, or families with a quieter lifestyle.
Grooming is another area where Yorkies and Maltese align well. Both have long, silky coats that require frequent brushing and maintenance to stay clean and mat-free. Some owners opt for “puppy cuts” for easier upkeep. Sharing grooming routines can simplify your schedule and create bonding moments between the two dogs.
This pairing works best when both dogs are introduced gradually. Since both can develop strong attachments to their humans, ensuring equal attention helps prevent jealousy or rivalry. Creating shared routines, engaging in joint training sessions, and offering affection evenly between the two will build trust and reinforce their bond.
Ultimately, the Yorkie and Maltese make a lovable, lively team. Their small stature, emotional intelligence, and deep loyalty to their people make them an ideal pair for dog owners looking for companionship, warmth, and fun.
6. Shih Tzu
Breed Size: 9–16 lbs
Temperament: Sweet, calm, and loving
Energy Level: Low to moderate
Lifespan: 10–16 years
Shih Tzus have a naturally calm and friendly demeanor that complements the Maltese perfectly. They’re small enough to be physically safe around a Maltese and tend to enjoy a similar amount of daily activity. Both breeds thrive in indoor settings and love a comfy lap to cuddle on.
Their grooming needs are similar, and both breeds are well-suited to apartment or condo living. A Shih Tzu-Maltese pair can become inseparable if introduced early.
7. Papillon
Breed Size: 5–10 lbs
Temperament: Alert, intelligent, and lively
Energy Level: Moderate to high
Lifespan: 14–16 years
The Papillon is one of the most intelligent and agile toy breeds. Their lively nature can be a great match for a curious Maltese who enjoys stimulation and play. Papillons tend to be outgoing and quick learners, so they usually adapt well to living with other small dogs.
Because Papillons are a bit more high-energy than the Maltese, this combo works best in homes where daily play and mental stimulation are prioritized.
8. Toy Poodle
Breed Size: 6–9 lbs
Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, and loyal
Energy Level: Moderate
Lifespan: 12–15 years
Toy Poodles are brilliant and adaptable, which makes them a strong companion choice for the Maltese. Their similar size, coat type, and affectionate disposition make daily routines and playtime seamless. Poodles are often used in Maltese hybrid breeds like the Maltipoo, showing how well these two breeds can get along.
Just like the Maltese, Toy Poodles love attention and can be sensitive to changes in the household. When socialized early, these two breeds create a loving, playful, and peaceful partnership.
9. Japanese Chin
Breed Size: 7–11 lbs
Temperament: Quiet, affectionate, and graceful
Energy Level: Low to moderate
Lifespan: 10–14 years
If you’re looking for a companion that shares the Maltese’s gentle and graceful nature, the Japanese Chin is a wonderful option. This breed is reserved but extremely loyal. They enjoy lounging and cuddling, which makes them a great match for older or more laid-back Maltese dogs.
The Japanese Chin has a regal, cat-like presence and is known for their elegance and calm disposition. They’re naturally clean, quiet, and often form very strong bonds with their primary caretakers. This makes them incredibly in tune with both human and canine companions, and they adapt well to another dog in the household—especially one with a similar temperament like the Maltese.
Both breeds value peaceful, cozy environments and are content spending much of their day relaxing indoors. The Japanese Chin, like the Maltese, does not require extensive exercise, making them ideal for individuals with a slower-paced lifestyle, seniors, or apartment dwellers. Short play sessions and gentle walks are enough to keep both breeds healthy and happy.
While reserved with strangers, Japanese Chins are deeply affectionate with those they trust. Their loyalty to their inner circle makes them dependable companions, and when paired with a Maltese, they often develop a sibling-like bond that is calm, comforting, and long-lasting. They are rarely competitive for attention, preferring to coexist harmoniously, which helps avoid conflict in multi-dog homes.
Another trait that makes this breed an excellent match is their adaptability. Japanese Chins are sensitive and intuitive, which means they easily adjust to the household routine and mood. If the Maltese is feeling playful, the Chin may join in gently; if it’s a nap day, the Chin will happily snooze beside them.
Japanese Chins are low-maintenance when it comes to exercise and are quiet companions overall, making them ideal for apartment living with a Maltese. Their soft coat requires regular brushing to prevent tangles, but their grooming needs are generally manageable—especially for owners who are already caring for a Maltese. Plus, their similarly compact size allows them to share spaces, toys, and cuddle spots comfortably.
Overall, the Japanese Chin and Maltese make a refined and tender-hearted pair. Their personalities mesh seamlessly, offering their owner a double dose of affection, elegance, and tranquility in one charming canine package.
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10. Pekingese
Breed Size: 7–14 lbs
Temperament: Loyal, calm, and independent
Energy Level: Low
Lifespan: 12–14 years
Pekingese dogs are calm and affectionate, and their low-energy lifestyle aligns beautifully with a relaxed Maltese. They enjoy quiet environments and form strong bonds with other dogs when introduced early. Pekingese can be a little stubborn, but with patient training and a calm environment, they make a regal and respectful companion.
The Pekingese breed has a rich history as a companion to Chinese royalty, and their dignified demeanor still shines through today. Their serene and independent personalities complement the affectionate and sweet nature of the Maltese, resulting in a relationship grounded in mutual respect and quiet companionship. While they may not be as eager to please as some other breeds, Pekingese are incredibly loyal once a bond is formed.
When introduced at a young age or with gradual socialization, Pekingese can develop close friendships with other small, gentle dogs like the Maltese. They are not particularly playful or rowdy, which suits a more reserved or mature Maltese companion perfectly. Instead of wild play, these dogs often prefer quiet moments, shared naps, and calm environments where they can simply enjoy each other’s company.
Their long, luxurious coats are similar in maintenance to the Maltese, which makes grooming easier to manage in a multi-dog household. Both breeds benefit from frequent brushing to prevent tangling and matting, as well as regular bathing to keep their coats soft and clean. If you already have a grooming routine in place for a Maltese, adding a Pekingese won’t require a significant adjustment.
Although they are not the most athletic of breeds, the Pekingese still enjoys short, leisurely walks and light playtime. Their low energy needs make them ideal for apartment living or homes without access to large outdoor spaces. Pairing them with a Maltese, who also has modest exercise requirements, creates a harmonious dynamic where neither dog is pushing the other beyond their comfort zone.
Pekingese dogs also tend to be relatively quiet and composed indoors, helping to maintain a peaceful home atmosphere. With their expressive eyes, lion-like mane, and loving hearts, they offer a charming and affectionate presence that blends well with the gentle temperament of a Maltese.
Together, the Pekingese and Maltese make a sophisticated and loving duo. Their shared preference for calm, cozy environments and their similar grooming needs create a lifestyle match that’s as convenient as it is heartwarming.
Tips for Introducing a New Dog to Your Maltese
- Take it slow: Use neutral territory for the first meeting and allow them to sniff and get acquainted gradually.
- Supervise early interactions: Watch closely for signs of stress, fear, or aggression.
- Use positive reinforcement: Reward good behavior with treats, praise, and affection.
- Keep separate spaces initially: Each dog should have its own food and bed area to reduce competition.
- Establish a routine: Dogs thrive on routine, and consistency will help smooth the transition.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Canine Companion for Your Maltese
The Maltese is a breed that thrives on love, companionship, and emotional connection—not just with humans, but with other dogs too. The key to a successful multi-dog household is matching temperament, size, and lifestyle needs. Whether you choose a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a Havanese, or a Toy Poodle, selecting the right companion will enrich your Maltese’s life—and yours.
Before making your decision, consult with your veterinarian or a trusted breeder to ensure a good match based on your Maltese’s specific personality and health status. With the right companion, your Maltese will flourish in a loving, balanced pack.
Looking to adopt a second dog? Check out reputable breed rescues or organizations like Petfinder to find your Maltese’s perfect companion today.