The Cost Of Newborn Maltese Puppies: What You Need To Know

Maltese puppies are small, affectionate, and intelligent dogs with long, silky coats. They are highly sought-after, with their price depending on factors such as the breeder's reputation, location, and the puppy's pedigree. The cost of a newborn Maltese puppy from a reputable breeder can range anywhere from $600 to $2,340, with some breeders charging even more for a puppy with a superior lineage or desirable physical characteristics. If you're looking to adopt, you can expect to pay significantly less, with adoption fees ranging from $50 to $500, depending on the organization and the puppy's age, health, and temperament.

Adoption fees

Adopting a Maltese puppy from a shelter or rescue organisation is a great way to bring a furry friend into your life without the high costs associated with buying from a breeder. The adoption fees for a Maltese puppy typically range from $50 to $500, depending on the dog's age, health, and temperament. Puppies under six months of age tend to be the most expensive.

Shelters and rescue organisations may also require you to cover the cost of microchipping, which can range from $25 to $75, and initial supplies for your new puppy, such as a leash, collar, bed, crate, and training equipment, which can cost between $150 and $650.

The average lifetime cost of owning a Maltese is around $18,970, including food, supplies, and medical care.

Initial setup and supplies

Setting up the right environment

It is important to set up a designated area for your Maltese puppy to help with housebreaking, to keep their important teething toys near them, to give them a sense of security when they are home alone, and to keep them safe. This area can be created using an indoor canine playpen, which is big enough for them to move around and play, but small enough to control messes and provide a sense of safety.

Supplies

• Toys: To cure teething woes, offer entertainment, keep jaws strong, and provide interaction.
• Pee-pads: To be used until the pup is fully trained.
• Food and snacks: It is important to choose the best food for your Maltese puppy as it will have a direct impact on their health.
• Bed: A good bed will offer proper support and keep the pup warm.
• Bowls: Stainless steel or ceramic bowls are recommended over plastic.
• Leash, collar, and harness: A harness is recommended over a collar to avoid neck injuries.
• Car seat: To keep your Maltese safe while travelling.
• Grooming supplies: Shampoo, conditioner, leave-in spritz, body grooming wipes, comb, brush, and mat-remover.

Monthly costs

Food

The cost of feeding a Maltese puppy depends on the quality and type of food you choose. A high-quality dog food for a small breed like the Maltese can cost between $50 to $90 a year. Treats and snacks can increase this cost but are a great way to spoil your puppy. It's important to feed your Maltese puppy a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations on the best food for your puppy.

Grooming

Grooming a Maltese is important to maintain their long, silky coat and overall hygiene. The cost of grooming a Maltese depends on the frequency of grooming and the type of services selected. A Maltese requires grooming every 6 to 10 weeks to maintain their coat and prevent matting. The cost of each grooming session typically ranges from $50 to $100. Additional services such as teeth cleaning, nail trimming, and ear cleaning may be required, which can increase the cost of grooming. Some owners may choose to groom their Maltese at home to save on costs, but it's important to ensure you have the necessary tools and skills.

Medical Costs

The first year of a Maltese puppy's life is crucial for their health and development. Medical costs during this time can include vaccinations, routine check-ups, and any unexpected illnesses or injuries. On average, a visit to the veterinarian can cost between $65 to $170, depending on the type of service required. A puppy typically requires three visits during the first year, including an initial exam, a follow-up exam, and their first annual check-up. The total cost of veterinary care for a Maltese puppy during the first year can range from $195 to $510.

Throughout their lifetime, Maltese can be prone to developing certain health conditions, which may result in additional medical costs. Here are some common health conditions in Maltese dogs and their associated costs:

• Portosystemic Shunt (Liver Shunt): $2000 - $5000
• Collapsing Trachea: $2500 - $4500
• Patellar Luxation: $300 - $2000

Optional Services

Optional services such as dog walking and boarding can provide additional benefits for you and your Maltese. The cost of dog walking services varies depending on the length of the walk and the location, typically costing between $15 to $25 for a 30-minute walk. Dog walking services are ideal for busy pet owners who are unable to provide regular exercise for their Maltese.

Boarding services can also vary in cost depending on the location and services provided, ranging from $25 to $85 per day, with additional costs for extra services such as grooming or special care. These services provide a safe and comfortable environment for your Maltese while you are away.

Total Monthly Cost

The total monthly cost of owning a Maltese can vary depending on the specific expenses incurred. The basic monthly costs, including food, flea and tick treatments, and waste bags, can amount to around $31 per month. However, if you include extras such as pet insurance, vet checkups, grooming services, and potential treatments or surgeries, the monthly cost can increase to $375 or more.

Medical costs

The first year of a Maltese puppy's life is critical for its health and development. During this time, you can expect to pay for vaccinations, routine check-ups, and any unexpected illnesses or injuries. The cost of veterinary care for a Maltese puppy during its first year typically ranges from $195 to $510. This includes three visits: an initial exam, a follow-up, and the first annual check-up. A single visit to the veterinarian can cost between $65 and $170, depending on the type of service required.

Throughout their lifetime, Maltese dogs can be prone to developing certain health conditions. Here are some of the potential medical issues that your Maltese may face, along with the associated costs:

• Portosystemic Shunt (Liver Shunt): $2,000 - $5,000
• Collapsing Trachea: $2,500 - $4,500
• Patellar Luxation: $300 - $2,000

Additionally, it is important to consider the cost of preventative care and routine procedures. Microchipping your Maltese puppy is a simple and effective way to ensure their safety. The cost of microchipping typically ranges from $50 to $75. Vaccinations are another essential expense, with three sets of vaccinations required during the first year, costing between $225 and $300 in total.

The cost of owning a Maltese also includes the price of pet insurance, which can help offset the cost of unexpected veterinary expenses. The monthly cost of pet insurance for a Maltese is usually between $25 and $60, depending on the parameters you choose.

The average lifetime cost of owning a Maltese is estimated to be around $18,970, which includes essential expenses such as food, supplies, and medical care.

One-time costs

The one-time costs of a newborn Maltese puppy include the initial cost of purchasing or adopting the puppy, as well as the cost of essential supplies and procedures.

Initial Cost

The cost of a newborn Maltese puppy can vary widely depending on factors such as the breeder's reputation, location, and the puppy's pedigree. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere between $500 and $2,340 for a puppy from a reputable breeder, with Maltese mixes starting at around $500. Adopting from a shelter or rescue organisation is a more affordable option, with fees typically ranging from $50 to $500, depending on the dog's age and needs.

Essential Supplies and Procedures

The initial cost of supplies for a Maltese puppy can range from $150 to $650, depending on the quality and quantity of items purchased. Essential supplies may include a leash, collar, bed, crate, sanitary equipment, and training supplies.

Microchipping is another important one-time cost, ranging from $25 to $75, and vaccinations during the first year can cost between $225 to $300.

Breakdown of Costs

• Initial setup and supplies: $150-$650. This includes items such as toys, pee-pads, food and water bowls, a bed, leash, collar, harness, and car seat.
• Microchipping: $25-$75. This simple procedure ensures your puppy's safety and increases the chances of being reunited if they ever get lost.
• Vaccinations: $225-$300. During the first year, your Maltese puppy will require three sets of vaccinations to boost their immune system and protect them from potential health risks.
• Spaying/neutering: Variable cost. This procedure can vary in price depending on your location and the provider.
• Grooming supplies: Variable cost. While the cost of professional grooming services ranges from $50 to $100, you can save money by grooming your Maltese at home. Grooming supplies include shampoo, conditioner, brushes, combs, and coat detangling spray.

In summary, the one-time costs of a newborn Maltese puppy can range from $500 to over $3,000, depending on the factors mentioned above. It's important to be prepared for these expenses when considering adding a Maltese puppy to your family.

Frequently asked questions