Maltese
Maltese
Small, companion-oriented and apartment-friendly, though grooming and alone-time training still matter.
Core facts
12-15 years
Low-moderate
Yes
Medium-high
Fit breakdown
Best for
Apartment living、People wanting a small companion dog、Owners open to daily grooming
Avoid if
You do not want grooming upkeep、You are away for long stretches on workdays
Care highlights
Apartment fit is strong, but grooming cost is ongoing.
A highly companion-oriented small dog still needs alone-time training.
It suits beginners willing to manage daily details carefully.
Week-one notes
Start short alone-time practice immediately.
Build brushing, paw-cleaning and feeding rhythm early.
Do not relax boundaries just because the dog is small.
What matters most in the first week after bringing a pet home?
It is not instant bonding. The first priority is stabilizing environment, feeding and routine. Week one is about reducing stress, avoiding rapid changes and setting up safe zones for rest and elimination.
Can a beginner own a high-energy dog?
Yes, but only if time is stable, training effort is realistic, and you can support regular exercise and social exposure long term. High-energy dogs are not a good fit for a casual after-work pet plan.