Highland Maltie Basics

This feisty little family dog is the Highland Maltie and he brings the fun-loving personality of the Maltese together with the bold, fearless characteristics of the West Highland White Terrier for a great family dog who loves kids and pets alike. He is devoted to his human pack and thrives on attention but can become a bit impatient and “nippy” if provoked.

The Highland Maltie combines the fun-loving personality of the Maltese with the bold little West Highland White Terrier.

Origin

The Highland Maltie is a Designer Dog and it’s expected he first originated in the 1980s when breeders began crossing pure-bred dogs to create smaller, hypo-allergenic or gentler variations on some of the more popular breeds.

Pedigree

The Highland Maltie is not a member of the American Kennel Club (AKC) because he lacks purebred status. Both parents however are long-term members; the Maltese joined AKC’s “toy” group back in 1888 while the West Highland White Terrier joined the “terrier” group in 1908.

Food / Diet

The Highland Maltie is not an overly active dog and his diet should reflect this. Opt for a high quality kibble specifically suited to his size, age and activity level and always select a mix that is low in fillers (such as carbs) that will encourage overeating to feel full. This dog comes from two breeds that are prone to joint issues later in life so obesity must always be on your radar. Plan to feed him 2 to 3 small meals throughout the day versus free-feeding and because his Maltese DNA can make him prone to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) a feeding schedule is important.

The Highland Maltie can be stubborn so patience will be needed when training.

Training

The Highland Maltie can be stubborn so patience will be needed when training. Because he is part Terrier early socialization is important to discourage chasing other animals and if you aren’t getting the results you hoped for, consider bringing in a professional trainer rather than throwing in the towel. As with most breeds, a firm, consistent, rewards-based approach will go a long way in bringing out the best in this dog.

Weight

Your Highland Maltie will typically weigh between 10 to 16 pounds.

Temperament / Behavior

The bold little Highland Maltie is a loving companion animal with a feisty attitude, heightened sense of self-importance and a strong devotion to his family. While he gets along well with other animals, he is part Terrier so his instinct to chase is strong and will require early socialization to help curb. He loves to be the center of attention and his bright and cheerful personality make him a favorite with kids however he can become impatient and nippy if he becomes agitated with rough play or teasing.

Common Health Problems

Typically designer dogs are able to sidestep the health issues that can be common in their pure-bred parents however it’s always important to be aware of what your new pup may inherit. From the Maltese, he may be prone to hypoglycemia, liver shunt and patellar luxation while the West Highland White Terrier may bring hip and joint issues including Legg-Calve Perthes Disease.

Life Expectancy

The Highland Maltie has a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years. Their lifespan is about average for small breeds.

Exercise Requirements

The Highland Maltie is a “busy” little dog who loves to be involved in everything family however he isn’t considered an exceptionally active dog. A good daily walk and playtime that will engage him with the family will be enough to keep him physically fit and mentally stimulated. If he becomes bored, he can become destructive so consider some interactive games to keep him occupied.

The Highland Maltie is a feisty, self-important little dog who is loving and devoted to his family.

Recognized Clubs

The Highland Maltie is recognized by the Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA) American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC), Designer Breed Registry (DBR), Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC) and the International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR).

Coat

The Highland Maltie sheds minimally throughout the year with it peaking during the usual shedding seasons. His coat is long, thick and silky and requires brushing 3 to 4 times per week to keep it from matting and tangling, with grooming every 2 to 3 months to help keep it looking its best. And because small dogs can run into dental issues, daily brushing should be an important part of his maintenance regimen.

Puppies

This bright little pup brings a built-in stubborn streak together with Terrier DNA to produce an adorable little guy who will need early socialization to ensure he plays nice with other pets and learns to obey commands. He comes from two breeds that experience joint issues later in life so be careful when exercising him so as not to overstress tiny legs.

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