Can a Maltese weigh 12 pounds
Maltese Growth & Weight Chart: Everything You Need To Know
Maltese is a charming, aristocratic dog breed that has been around for centuries. They are famous for their small size, adaptability, and stunning, floor-length coat. Despite their royal background, Maltese dogs are superstars on the agility course and can make excellent watchdogs. Initially bred on the Mediterranean island of Malta (hence the name), the breed was a luxury commodity sold alongside silks, gemstones, and spices to wealthy women around the world.
So as a breed designed for beauty and grace, just how big do Maltese dogs get? If youre the lucky pet parent to one of these sometimes stubborn but often charming showstoppers, you can use our Maltese weight chart to follow your puppys growth and development.
Heres everything you need to know about Maltese weight, size, and growth rate:
Pro Tip: New pet parents can be reimbursed for up to 90% of veterinary bills by signing up for a pet insurance plan. Compare Maltese health insurance options today to get peace of mind knowing that your Maltese pup will always have access to gold-standard veterinary care.
Maltese Weight Chart
| Birth Weight | 3.5 oz | 4 oz | 4.25 oz | 4.5 oz | 5.0 oz | 5.5 oz | 6 oz |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 10 |
| 2 weeks | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 |
| 3 weeks | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 16 | 17 | 18 |
| 4 weeks | 11 | 13 | 15 | 17 | 19 | 21 | 23 |
| 5 weeks | 13 | 15 | 17 | 19 | 22 | 24 | 26 |
| 6 weeks | 15 | 17 | 20 | 22 | 25 | 27 | 30 |
| 7 weeks | 17 | 19 | 22 | 24 | 27 | 30 | 33 |
| 8 weeks | 19 | 21 | 24 | 27 | 29 | 33 | 36 |
| 9 weeks | 20 | 23 | 28 | 29 | 32 | 35 | 39 |
| 10 weeks | 22 | 25 | 28 | 31 | 34 | 38 | 41 |
| 11 weeks | 24 | 27 | 31 | 34 | 37 | 40 | 45 |
| 12 weeks | 26 | 30 | 33 | 37 | 41 | 45 | 49 |
| 13 weeks | 28 | 32 | 36 | 40 | 44 | 49 | 53 |
| 14 weeks | 30 | 33 | 38 | 43 | 47 | 52 | 56 |
| 15 weeks | 32 | 37 | 41 | 46 | 51 | 56 | 60 |
| 16 weeks | 34 | 39 | 44 | 49 | 54 | 59 | 65 |
| 17 weeks | 36 | 41 | 46 | 51 | 57 | 62 | 67 |
| 18 weeks | 37 | 43 | 48 | 54 | 60 | 65 | 71 |
| 19 weeks | 39 | 44 | 50 | 56 | 62 | 67 | 72 |
| 20 weeks | 41 | 46 | 52 | 58 | 64 | 70 | 76 |
| 21 weeks | 42 | 48 | 54 | 60 | 66 | 72 | 78 |
| 22 weeks | 43 | 49 | 56 | 62 | 68 | 74 | 80 |
| 23 weeks | 44 | 50 | 57 | 64 | 70 | 76 | 82 |
| 24 weeks | 45 | 51 | 58 | 65 | 71 | 78 | 84 |
| 25 weeks | 46 | 52 | 59 | 66 | 72 | 79 | 85 |
| 26 weeks | 47 | 53 | 60 | 67 | 73 | 80 | 87 |
| Adult Weight | 3.5 lbs | 4 lbs | 4.5 lbs | 5 lbs | 5.5 lbs | 6 lbs | 6.5 lbs |
Maltese is a toy dog breed that grows to be less than seven pounds as an adult. Unlike many dog breeds, there is no noticeable difference between male and female Maltese sizes.
Please keep in mind that the above numbers are estimates of Maltese weight by age. Each puppy grows at its own pace, so dont worry if yours is slightly off the predicted range. Consult with your veterinarian if your puppy is significantly ahead or behind these figures or if you have other concerns about their growth.
At what age is a Maltese fully grown?
Most Maltese puppies will finish growing around six to eight months of age. As a toy dog breed, they reach their final weight and height much quicker than many dogs.
How big should a 6-month-old Maltese be?
A six-month-old Maltese puppy will be close to its full size and height. Some Maltese puppies will need a full eight months to complete their growth, while others may already be at their full size by six months old.
You can expect most Maltese puppies to weigh between 47 to 87 ounces at six months old. Most Maltese puppies will already be at their adult height at this age, typically between seven and nine inches tall.
Pro Tip: Download this new puppy checklist for must-know tips on puppy-proofing your home, setting up a vaccine schedule, bonding with your dog, and more.
How much bigger will my Maltese get?
You can estimate how much bigger your Maltese puppy will get using a few methods.
- Age. Begin with your Maltese puppys age. If they are less than six months old, they are probably still growing. After eight months, most Maltese puppies should be at their adult height and weight.
- Paw size. Next, take a look at your Maltese puppys paws. If their paws look oversized next to their body and legs, they are likely still filling out and growing.
- Genetics. Lastly, if you purchased your Maltese through a breeder, reach out to them about your puppys expected size. Based on your puppys parents, they should be able to provide you with a more exact weight and height estimate.
What is the size of a full-grown Maltese?
According to the American Kennel Club Official Maltese Breed Standards, an adult Maltese should weigh less than seven pounds and stand between seven to nine inches tall. Four to six pounds is considered the ideal weight for a Maltese, especially for pet shows.
How do I make sure my Maltese is healthy?
Maltese are stunning dogs with their black gumdrop noises, piercing black eyes, and floor-length coats. As beloved family members, our Maltese are precious to us, and they deserve the best. As purebred dogs, Maltese are more susceptible to genetic diseases. However, many genetic disorders can be prevented or minimized with preventative veterinary care, such as routine physical exams. During routine appointments, your veterinarian can screen your Maltese pup for any health problems and give you personalized advice on how to best care for your puppy and prevent future health problems.
According to the Veterinary Centers of America, the Maltese breed is prone to shaker syndrome, mitral valve disease, low blood sugar, and microvascular dysplasia. Shaker syndrome is prevalent in small, white dogs, like the Maltese. Shaker syndrome - a condition prevalent in small, white dogs - usually shows up during early adulthood as tremors. In severe cases, dogs may also experience problems with their vision or other neurologic defects due to the tremors. Fortunately, many dogs respond well to steroids commonly used to treat shaker syndrome.
Maltese Veterinary Costs
Routine veterinary care can help you prevent and minimize the impact of some genetic diseases on your pup. However, even with proper prevention and wellness care, most dogs will likely need veterinary treatment for illness or injury at some point during their life. Depending on the situation, the cost of a vet visit can quickly add up to thousands of dollars, but less than 20% of pet parents said they would be able to cover a $5,000 veterinary expense out-of-pocket. This could leave many pet owners in a pinch should their Maltese need costly veterinary care, which is why pet insurance is so critically important.
Pet insurance works by reimbursing you for up to 90% of out-of-pocket veterinary expenses for illnesses and accidents, which provides you with a safety net should the worst happen to your pup. You can gain comforting peace of mind knowing that your dog will have access to top-notch care at an affordable rate throughout the course of their life.
Can A Maltese Weigh 12 Pounds? (Explained)
No, a Maltese cannot weigh 12 pounds. The breed typically only weighs between four and seven pounds.
How much should a dog weigh at 7 months?
Maltese are toy-size dogs that typically weigh less than 12 pounds when they reach their full adult weight. Maltese usually reach their full adult weight between 6 and 8 months old.
What is a good weight for a Maltese?
The Maltese is a small breed of dog that typically weighs between four and six pounds. Though there are some variations in size, the average weight for a Maltese is generally considered to be within this range.
Maltese dogs are known for being relatively petite, which contributes to their overall smaller size. However, despite their diminutive stature, Maltese dogs are actually quite resilient and hardy little pups. They make great companion animals and can adapt well to most living situations.
While four to six pounds may be the ideal weight range for a Maltese, its important to remember that every dog is unique and will have its own individualized needs. Some Maltese may fall outside of the typical weight range due either to genetics or health conditions. Its always best to consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dogs weight or health in general.
Can a Maltese weigh 10 pounds?
No, a Maltese cannot weigh 10 pounds. The average Maltese weighs between 7 and 9 pounds. There is no standard height for a Maltese, but most males are 8 to 10 inches tall.
How fully grown is a dog at 7 months?
At 7 months, a maltese should have all 42 of his adult teeth. He will also look like a miniature adult, with a full coat of fur. A maltese at 7 months old should be able to maintain two full meals per day.
How much should a 6 month old Maltese weigh?
A Maltese should weigh between 47 and 87 ounces when they are six months old. It is important to keep an eye on your Malteses weight because if they are too heavy, it could lead to health problems. If your Maltese is overweight, you should talk to your veterinarian about a diet plan.
How much should a 6 month old Maltese eat?
A 6 month old Maltese should eat approximately a cup per day. After the first year, they should eat approximately cup per day.
Is 7 months still considered a puppy?
No, your puppy is not a puppy anymore at 7 months old. Puppy hood is full of hoops, hurdles, and challenges, and puppy adolescence is one of the most challenging stages to navigate through. At 7 months old, your puppy is hitting the peak of adolescence.
How many times do Maltese eat day?
As a general rule, adult Maltese should have three small meals per day. However, some owners may find that their dog does better on two larger meals. If you are transitioning your Maltese to two meals per day, do so gradually over the course of a week or two.
Maltese are active little dogs and need a good quality diet to maintain their health and energy levels. A healthy diet for a Maltese should be rich in protein and moderate in fat. It is important to avoid foods that are high in sugar or salt as these can cause health problems for your dog down the road.
When it comes to feeding schedule, always consult with your veterinarian first. They will be able to give you specific advice based on your dogs individual needs.
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Maltese Growth Chart. Maltese Weight Calculator.
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Maltese Growth
Did you just get the Maltese puppy? And do you want to know when your Maltese will stop growing and how big your Maltese will get? Or do you want to know if your Maltese is of the ideal weight for its age?
In this article, we will answer all relevant questions related to Maltese growth and weight.
If you do not own the Maltese yet, make sure you purchase your Maltese from an ethical Maltese breeder or work with a reputable rescue. Check out our Maltese buying guide and Maltese price guide here.
It is important for you as a caring Maltese owner to know if your Maltese is growing normally and if your Maltese is not overweight or underweight.
Extensive
research studieshave shown that most dogs are overweight because their owners spoil them with food, treats, and an easy life. Most dogs eat way too much and do not get enough exercise.
Researchhas also shown that one of the reasons many dogs die young is because they are overweight.
You can extend your dog`s life by making sure your dog is of healthy weight and growth.
One final reason to keep track of your Maltese`s weight and growth is that your Maltese`s weight and growth pattern can tell you if your Maltese has some underlying health conditions (such as bone, heart, hormone diseases). This is what recent research has shown.
This article contains the Maltese growth calculator that you can use to predict your Maltese`s adult weight. This article also contains the Maltese growth chart and weight calculator that you can use to approximately tell if your Maltese`s weight is in the normal range based on its current weight.
However, the more accurate method to predict and track normal growth in your Maltese is by regularly weighing your Maltese and recording the weight of your Maltese with our free dog weight tracker and weight predictor. Our tool will tell you, first, a more accurate future weight of your Maltese and, second, if your Maltese is growing normally.
We designed our dog weight tracker and weight predictor based on a recent research study carried out by researchers from Banfield Pet Hospitals and the University of Liverpool. This study collected and analyzed the weight of over 6 million healthy dogs in the United States. The dogs studied included dogs in the Maltese weight category.
Maltese Weight and Growth Chart
Below is the typical growth chart and weight chart of Malteses at different stages in their lives.
Note that your Maltese may be slightly heavier or lighter than what the chart says. The growth chart is an average weight chart.
To know how much food to feed your Maltese at different ages and weights, check out our Maltese feeding guide and calculator.
To know how much water your Maltese needs to drink at different ages and weights, check out our Maltese water drinking guide and calculator.
| Age | Average Weight | Typical Weight Range |
|---|---|---|
| 12 Weeks | 2 LBS | 2 LBS 3 LBS |
| 16 Weeks | 3 LBS | 2 LBS 4 LBS |
| 20 Weeks | 4 LBS | 3 LBS 5 LBS |
| 25 Weeks | 4 LBS | 3 LBS 5 LBS |
| 30 Weeks | 5 LBS | 4 LBS 6 LBS |
| 35 Weeks | 5 LBS | 4 LBS 6 LBS |
Maltese Growth Calculator
Use the calculator below to estimate how big your Maltese will get based on its current weight.
This Maltese growth calculator is based on the typical weight curve of a Maltese shown above. The calculator assumes that your Maltese is growing normally, and not on its way to become overweight or underweight.
How Much Should a Maltese Weigh?
Malteses typically weigh between 6 to 9 pounds.
Above is a graph that shows how much a Maltese should weigh at different ages. Check where the weight of your Maltese falls in the graph for its age.
The weights in the dark green region is typical for Malteses.
If the weight of your Maltese falls outside the dark green region for its age, then you should consult a vet.
Also, you can use the Maltese weight calculator below to find the typical weight and the normal weight range of Malteses, male or female, of any age between 12 weeks and 100 weeks.
If you want to see how the weight of your Maltese compares to that of other Maltese`s of its age, enter the weight of your Maltese in the calculator, and the calculator will show you where your Maltese stands on the weight chart.
The calculator will also tell you if your Maltese is within the normal weight range for the Maltese.
This Maltese weight calculator uses information from a research study on dog weight carried out by researchers at the University of Liverpool.
Please, talk to your vet before taking any decision on your pet`s weight and health.
What is the Height of the Maltese?
The adult Maltese is 8 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder. This is the average adult height of the Maltese.
Is Your Maltese Growing Normally? This is How to Tell
Puppy growth predictors, growth charts, and growth calculators like the ones above are approximate methods for predicting growth in dogs. However, these tools have limited capabilities. This is because each dog is unique and a dog`s growth may be different from that of the overall dog population.
A more accurate and scientific way to predict a dog`s growth is to measure the dog`s weight every week and record the weight. Doing this with your Maltese will give you a clearer picture of how your Maltese is growing.
You can use our free tool to track your Maltese`s growth and weight over time. Our tool will also let you know if your Maltese is growing normally.
Tracking your Maltese`s weight will let you see the unique growth trajectory of your Maltese. You can use this growth trajectory to accurately predict how big your Maltese will get. The growth trajectory will also let you know very early if your Maltese will become overweight or underweight.
Monitoring your dog`s weight is important because pet obesity is one of the leading causes of premature death in dogs. And these days, pets gain weight very easily because their owners spoil them with lots of treats and food. Catching early abnormal weight in your dog and correcting it (through diet changes, exercise) can significantly extend your dog`s life.
Below is what a normal growth pattern and what abnormal growth patterns look like in Malteses. You can compare your Maltese growth trajectory against these references to see if your Maltese is growing normally or you can use our automatic tool.
to track healthy growth in your Maltese.
How to Measure the Weight of your Maltese
There are two methods you can use to measure your Maltese`s weight.
The first method, which is the better and more accurate method to weigh your Maltese, is to use a dog weighing scale.
Using a dog scale is important if you would like to monitor your Maltese`s growth regularly to catch any abnormal growth early.
Having a scale for weighing your Maltese will make it easy for you to weigh your Maltese regularly without any trouble.
The scale that we recommend for weighing the Maltese is this high durability and affordable Greater Goods Digital Pet Scale. Click here to check out this scale on Amazon.
The second method is to use a bathroom scale to weigh yourself while holding your Maltese. Then use the same scale to weigh yourself without your Maltese. Then calculate your weight when holding your dog minus your weight when not holding your Maltese. This method is illustrated in the picture below.
However, note that this method of holding your dog on a scale is not very accurate, and it may be difficult for you to use this method to weigh your Maltese if your Maltese is very heavy or if your Maltese is the type that would not stay still while being held.
How Fast Do Malteses Grow? Maltese Growth Rate
Starting from 3 months of age, Malteses grow at a rate of 0.18 pounds per week (0.08 Kilograms per week) on average. Starting at 4 months, your Maltese will gain 0.15 pounds (0.07 Kilograms) every week on average.
At 5 months of age, your Maltese will grow at a rate of 0.12 pounds per week (0.06 Kilograms per week) on average. Then at 6 months, your Maltese will gain 0.10 pounds (0.04 Kilograms) every week on average.
See the growth rate chart of the Maltese below
| Age (Months) | Growth per week (Pounds) | Growth per week (Kg) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 Months | 0.18 | 0.08 |
| 4 Months | 0.15 | 0.07 |
| 5 Months | 0.12 | 0.06 |
| 6 Months | 0.10 | 0.04 |
| 7 Months | 0.08 | 0.04 |
| 8 Months | 0.06 | 0.03 |
Maltese Growth Stages
Your Maltese will go through a number of developmental stages on its journey to adulthood. Your Maltese`s growth pattern can be categorized into 6 distinct stages: Neonatal, Transitional, Socialization Period, Juvenile Period, Adolescent Period, and Maturity.
You can know the developmental stage of your Maltese based on how old your Maltese is.
1. Maltese Neonatal Period
Maltese Neonatal Period is from Birth to 2 weeks. During this stage, the Maltese puppy will be totally dependent on its mother. The Maltese puppy`s eyes will still be unopened with no sense of vision. The Maltese puppy will only have the senses of taste and touch
2. Maltese Transitional Period
Maltese Transitional Period is from 2 weeks to 3 weeks. During this stage, the Maltese puppy will continue to develop a better sense of hearing and taste. The puppy`s teeth will start coming through and its eyes will begin to open.
During this stage, the Maltese puppy begins to crawl forward and backward, begins to stand, begins to wag its tail. This is also the age where your puppys personality begins to develop.
3. Maltese Socialization Period
Maltese Socialization Period is from 3 weeks to 14 weeks. During this stage, the Maltese puppy will be able to fully use all of its senses (vision, smell, touch, hearing, taste), and the puppy will learn to survive without its mother.
Also during this stage, the Maltese puppy learns how to act like a dog (biting, chasing, barking, etc). The rapid learning and socialization of the puppy occur at this stage, and what the Maltese puppy learns in this stage will have a long-term effect on the puppy`s behavior as an adult.
4. Maltese Juvenile Period
Maltese Juvenile Period is from 3-4 Months to 5-14 months. During this stage, the Maltese puppies will attempt to clarify and resolve their boundaries. Their baby teeth start getting replaced by adult teeth.
5. Maltese Adolescent Period
Maltese Adolescent Period is from 5-14 Months to 2-3 Years. Malteses go through social and sexual maturity during this stage.
6. Maltese Maturity Period
Maltese Maturity Period is from 1 year to 4 years. At this age, your Maltese will transition to full adulthood.
Maltese Weight/Growth Chart in KG
Below is typical growth and weight chart of the all in Kilograms (kg).
| Age | Average Weight | Typical Weight Range |
|---|---|---|
| 12 Weeks | 1 KG | 1 KG 1 KG |
| 16 Weeks | 1 KG | 1 KG 1 KG |
| 20 Weeks | 1 KG | 1 KG 2 KG |
| 25 Weeks | 2 KG | 1 KG 2 KG |
| 30 Weeks | 2 KG | 1 KG 2 KG |
| 35 Weeks | 2 KG | 2 KG 3 KG |
How Much Should a 12-Week-old Maltese Weigh?
The average weight of a 12-week-old Maltese is 2.9 lbs (1.3 kg).
The typical weight range of a 12-week-old Maltese is from 2.3 lbs to 3.5 lbs (1.0 kg to 1.6 kg).
How Much Should a 4-Month-old Maltese Weigh?
The average weight of a 4-month-old Maltese is 3.6 lbs (1.6 kg).
The typical weight range of a 4-month-old Maltese is from 2.9 lbs to 4.4 lbs (1.3 kg to 2.0 kg).
How Much Should a 6-Month-old Maltese Weigh?
The average weight of a 6-month-old Maltese is 4.7 lbs (2.1 kg).
The typical weight range of a 6-month-old Maltese is from 3.7 lbs to 5.7 lbs (1.7 kg to 2.6 kg).
How Much Should a 1-Year-old Maltese Weigh?
The average weight of a 1-year-old Maltese is 6.2 lbs (2.8 kg).
The typical weight range of a 1-year-old Maltese is from 5.0 lbs to 7.5 lbs (2.3 kg to 3.4 kg).
How to Tell If Your Maltese is Overweight
As mentioned earlier in this article, a very accurate way to know if your Maltese puppy is on its way to becoming overweight is by weighing your dog every week and recording its weight. This will show you the growth trajectory of your Maltese puppy. And a close look at your puppy`s growth trajectory will tell you if your Maltese puppy will be overweight or underweight. This method is relatively easy to use.
You can use our free online tool to track your Maltese puppy`s growth curve.
However, if you do not have a record of the weekly weights of your Maltese, and you want to tell if your dog is overweight, underweight, or of normal weight, then you can use a chart called the body condition chart shown below. This method requires some expertise to use, and it is further discussed below.
To tell your dog`s body condition, first, look at your dog closely and observe which of its bones and structures are sticking out or not sticking out from under its skin. Next, use your hands to feel for fat and bones over your dog. To know which bones to look and feel for, check out the body condition tool guide from the World Small Animal Veterinary Association and this guide. This exercise will tell you the body condition score for your dog.
Body condition scores are from a scale of 1 to 9. A score of 1, 2 or 3 means that a dog is too skinny. A score of 4 or 5 means that a dog is of ideal weight, and a score above 5 means that a dog is overweight.
Talk to your vet if your Maltese appears to be overweight. The vet might recommend reducing how much food to feed your Maltese.
Conclusion on Maltese Weight and Growth
In this article, we have provided you with the information, growth charts and growth calculators to help you tell how big your Maltese will get. These tools will also help tell if your Maltese is growing normally.
However, the best way to monitor and predict the growth of your Maltese is to measure and record your puppy Maltese`s weight every week.
Use our free Maltese weight tracker and calculator tool available here to track and predict your Maltese`s weight.
It is important that every Maltese owner monitors the growth of their Maltese for normal growth by checking the weight of their Maltese regularly. Regular weight monitoring will let you detect any abnormal growth very early before it is too late. We discussed how you can tell if your Maltese is growing normally from your Maltese`s weight history earlier in this article.
Abnormal growth in Maltese can be because of underlying disease (such are heart, hormonal, or bone problems) or because of overfeeding or underfeeding. All of the aforementioned reduce the Maltese lifespan and quality of life.
Don`t wait. Start tracking your Maltese`s weight today!
