Maltese health: what owners should know

The Maltese is a long-lived breed, often reaching 12 to 15 years, but it has known weak points. Dental disease is the most common, followed by luxating patellas (slipping kneecaps). Portosystemic liver shunts, a windpipe prone to collapse and a tremor condition sometimes called white shaker syndrome are also seen. Tear staining is usually cosmetic, though it can reflect irritation or blocked tear ducts.

Good breeders have the parents' knees and eyes examined, and many run liver function tests on puppies before they leave. Annual dental checks are worth booking from about age two. Contact your vet if you notice a honking cough, a hind leg carried for more than a few steps, stunted growth, a puppy that seems dull or unsteady after meals, or bad breath with red gums.