10/07/2024
Use
The Maltese is kept for companionship, for ornament, or for competitive exhibition.[42] It is ranked 59th of 79 breeds assessed for intelligence by Stanley Coren.[43]
Health
A 2024 UK study found a life expectancy of 13.1 years for the breed compared to an average of 12.7 for purebreeds and 12 for crossbreeds.[44] A 2024 Italian study found a life expectancy of 11 years for the breed compared to 10 years overall.[45]