Choosing the right food is key to keeping your maltese healthy and happy. Maltese dogs need special nutrition for their small size and energy levels.
Maltese dogs have delicate digestive systems and require balanced meals with good protein and fat. Their small mouths need kibble that is easy to chew and digest. This breed also benefits from foods rich in vitamins and minerals to support shiny coats and strong bones.
Avoid foods with fillers, artificial flavors, or too many grains. Quality dog food helps prevent allergies and keeps your maltese’s weight in check. Understanding your dog’s unique needs can make feeding time easier and more effective. This guide will help you find the best dog foods that suit your maltese’s health and taste.
Our Top Picks
Top 10 Dog Foods For Maltese Of 2026
1. Royal Canin Maltese Adult Dry Dog Food, 2.5 lb bag
- Brand: Royal Canin
- Manufacturer: Royal Canin
- Dimensions: Height: 4.0 inches Width: 7.5 inches Length: 12.0 inches Weight: 2.5 pounds `
Discover the perfect nutrition for your beloved Maltese with Royal Canin’s specially formulated dry dog food. Designed to meet the unique needs of adult Maltese dogs, it promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat. Each bite-sized piece is crafted to be easy for small mouths to chew and digest. The 2.5 lb bag is convenient and keeps the food fresh. Ensure your furry friend thrives with every meal.
Advantages
- Supports healthy skin and coat with balanced nutrients.
- Helps maintain ideal weight for Maltese adult dogs.
- Contains small kibble size, perfect for Maltese mouths.
- Boosts digestion with highly digestible ingredients included.
- Provides complete nutrition tailored for Maltese adult needs.
Our Recommendations
My Maltese loves this dry dog food. It has a nice smell and small kibble size. Noticeable improvement in my dog’s coat after a few weeks. Shiny and soft fur now. Easy to serve and store. The 2.5 lb bag is perfect for small dogs like mine. Digestive health seems better. No more upset stomach or hard stools. Affordable and good quality. Feels safe feeding my dog this food every day.
2. Cesar Small Breed Dry Dog Food Filet Mignon Flavor and Spring Vegetables Garnish, 5 lb. Bag
- Brand: Cesar
- Manufacturer: Mars Petcare US
- Dimensions: Height: 15.0 Inches Width: 8.0 Inches Length: 4.25 Inches Weight: 5.0 Pounds `
Cesar Small Breed Dry Dog Food offers a tasty Filet Mignon flavor with fresh spring vegetables. Each bite is made to satisfy small dogs’ unique taste and nutrition needs. Crafted with quality ingredients, it supports healthy digestion and strong muscles. Perfectly sized kibble makes mealtime easy and enjoyable for little mouths. A 5 lb. bag provides plenty of meals to keep your pet happy and healthy.
Advantages
- Perfect size kibble supports small breed dogs’ chewing needs easily.
- Filet mignon flavor appeals to picky eaters with delicious taste.
- Includes spring vegetables for added vitamins and natural nutrients.
- Helps maintain healthy skin and shiny coat with balanced ingredients.
- Convenient 5 lb. bag offers great value and easy storage.
Our Recommendations
My small dog loves the Cesar Small Breed Dry Dog Food. The filet mignon flavor is tasty and fresh. I noticed my dog eats faster and seems happier. The size of the kibble is perfect for small mouths. The vegetables add a nice touch and good nutrition. This 5 lb. bag lasts a long time for my pet. Feeding time is easier and less messy now. Definitely a good choice for small dogs with picky tastes.
3. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 5-lb Trial Size Bag
- Brand: Blue Buffalo
- Manufacturer: Blue Buffalo Company, Ltd
- Color: Brown
- Dimensions: Height: 5.5 inches Width: 8.25 inches Length: 13.25 inches Weight: 5.0 pounds `
Packed with real chicken and brown rice, this dry dog food supports small breed adults’ health. Rich in protein, it helps maintain strong muscles and energy. The natural ingredients promote healthy digestion and a shiny coat. Perfect for picky eaters, the trial size lets you test the taste easily. Balanced nutrition keeps your dog happy and active every day.
Advantages
- Supports healthy muscles with real chicken as the first ingredient.
- Promotes strong immune system using natural antioxidants and vitamins.
- Easy to digest thanks to wholesome brown rice and oats.
- Small kibble size fits perfectly for small breed dogs.
- Provides balanced nutrition for energy and overall well-being.
Our Recommendations
My small dog loves the taste of this Blue Buffalo food. The chicken and brown rice mix smells fresh and natural. After a week, I noticed her coat looks shinier and she seems more energetic. The small kibble size is perfect for her tiny mouth. Easy to measure and store in the trial-size bag. No upset stomach or allergies so far. Great choice for small breed dogs needing good nutrition.
4. Hill’s Science Diet Small & Mini, Adult 1-6, Small & Mini Breeds Premium Nutrition, Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Brown Rice, 4.5 lb Bag
- Brand: Hill’s Science Diet
- Manufacturer: Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc.
- Color: White
- Dimensions: Height: 11.25 inches Width: 5.5 Inches Length: 7.25 inches Weight: 4.5 pounds `
Perfect for small and mini adult dogs aged 1 to 6 years. Made with real chicken and brown rice for healthy digestion and strong muscles. Supports a shiny coat and healthy skin with balanced nutrients. Easy to chew, ideal for small mouths and teeth. Comes in a 4.5 lb bag, convenient for daily feeding.
Advantages
- Supports small breed dogs’ specific nutritional needs effectively. Tailored nutrition.
- Made with high-quality chicken for strong muscles. Tasty and nutritious.
- Brown rice offers a healthy source of natural fiber. Promotes digestion.
- Formulated to maintain healthy skin and shiny coat. Visible results.
- Packed in a convenient 4.5 lb bag. Easy storage.
Our Recommendations
My small dog loves the taste of this dry food. It has good nutrition for her size and age. Her coat looks shinier and healthier after a few weeks. The size of the kibble is perfect for her small mouth. Easy to store with the resealable bag that keeps it fresh. Digestion seems better; no stomach upset or gas. Feeding time is quick because she eats it eagerly. Overall, a reliable choice for small and mini adult dogs.
5. Healthy Breeds Maltese Multi-Vitamin Soft Chews 60 Count
- Brand: Healthy Breeds
- Manufacturer: Healthy Breeds
- Color: Maltese
- Dimensions: Height: 4.0 inches Width: 3.75 inches Length: 3.75 inches Weight: 0.1 pounds `
Healthy Breeds Maltese Multi-Vitamin Soft Chews support your dog’s daily health needs. These chews help maintain a shiny coat and strong bones. Made with natural ingredients, they are gentle on your pet’s stomach. Easy to chew and tasty, your Maltese will enjoy them every day. Perfect for keeping your furry friend happy and energetic.
Advantages
- Supports overall health with essential vitamins and minerals.
- Promotes a shiny coat and healthy skin for Maltese dogs.
- Boosts immune system to help fight common illnesses.
- Easy-to-chew soft bites make daily vitamins simple and tasty.
- Helps maintain strong bones and healthy joints for active pets.
Our Recommendations
My Maltese loves these soft chews. Easy to give and tastes good to him. Noticeable improvement in his energy and coat after a few weeks. Feels healthier overall. Ingredients seem natural and safe. No stomach problems or bad reactions at all. Packaging is simple and keeps chews fresh for a long time. Very convenient. Great value for 60 soft chews. Lasts well and helps maintain my dog’s health.
6. Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin, Adult 1-6, Stomach & Skin Sensitivity Support, Small Kibble, Dry Dog Food, Chicken Recipe, 4 lb Bag
- Brand: Hill’s Science Diet
- Manufacturer: Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc.
- Color: White
- Dimensions: Height: 11.25 inches Width: 5.25 inches Length: 7.5 inches Weight: 4.0 pounds `
Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food helps support digestion and skin health. Made with real chicken, it offers a tasty and gentle meal for adult dogs. Small kibble size makes it easy for dogs to chew and enjoy. This recipe is designed to reduce stomach upset and promote a healthy coat. Feeding this food supports overall well-being for dogs aged 1 to 6 years.
Advantages
- Supports healthy digestion for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- Promotes clear skin and shiny coat with balanced nutrients.
- Small kibble size makes chewing easier for small dogs.
- Made with high-quality chicken for tasty, natural flavor.
- Contains gentle ingredients to reduce stomach and skin issues.
Our Recommendations
My dog’s tummy feels much better after eating this food. The small kibble is easy for him to chew. Skin looks healthier and less itchy now. He enjoys the chicken flavor and finishes every meal. I notice less stomach upset and fewer trips to the vet. Quality ingredients make me trust this brand more. Feeding time has become calm and happy again. This bag lasts a good while for my small dog. Sensitive stomach and skin issues seem well managed. Definitely a good choice for dogs with food sensitivities.
7. Cesar Wet Dog Food Classic Loaf in Sauce Poultry Variety Pack, 3.5 oz. Easy Peel Trays (24 Count, Pack of 1)
- Brand: Cesar
- Manufacturer: Mars Petcare US
- Color: multi
- Dimensions: Height: 7.78096869 inches Width: 6.499987 inches Length: 11.7499765 inches Weight: 5.25 pounds `
Cesar Wet Dog Food Classic Loaf in Sauce offers a tasty meal your dog will enjoy. Each tray has a soft, easy-to-eat texture packed with poultry flavors. Perfect for small and medium dogs, it comes in convenient easy-peel trays. Feeding time becomes simple and mess-free with this variety pack. Rich in nutrients, it supports your dog’s health and energy. A great choice for keeping your pet happy and satisfied.
Advantages
- Provides a tasty mix of poultry flavors dogs enjoy.
- Comes in easy-peel trays for quick and simple serving.
- Contains moist loaf in sauce, perfect for picky eaters.
- Offers balanced nutrition to support your dog’s health.
- Pack of 24 trays ensures enough food for many days.
Our Recommendations
My dog really enjoys the Cesar Wet Dog Food Classic Loaf in Sauce. The easy peel trays make feeding simple and quick. Each tray has a tasty poultry flavor that keeps my dog happy. The variety pack offers different flavors, so my dog never gets bored. The 3.5 oz size is perfect for one meal, no waste. Feeding time is now less messy and more fun for both of us. This pack lasts long and fits well in the fridge. A great choice for small dogs who like wet food.
8. Nature’s Protection Superior Care White Dogs Grain-Free Dry Dog Food – High Protein, Tear Stain Dog Food for Small & Mini Breeds Light Coated Adult Dogs, Fresh Pet Meal, White Fish, 3.3 lb
- Brand: Nature’s Protection
- Manufacturer: Akvatera
- Dimensions: Height: 15.1574802995 inches Width: 8.3858267631 inches Length: 4.330708657 inches Weight: 3.3 pounds `
Perfect for small and mini breeds, this grain-free dog food supports healthy digestion. Rich in white fish, it offers high protein for strong muscles and energy. Helps reduce tear stains and keeps your dog’s coat clean and light. Made with fresh ingredients, it provides balanced nutrition for adult dogs. A tasty meal that your pet will enjoy every day.
Advantages
- Supports healthy skin and a bright, white coat with quality ingredients.
- Contains high protein from fresh white fish for strong muscles.
- Grain-free formula helps dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies.
- Specially made for small and mini breeds, perfect size kibble.
- Helps reduce tear stains, keeping your dog’s face clean and fresh.
Our Recommendations
Our small white dog loves Nature’s Protection Superior Care. The grain-free formula suits her sensitive stomach. This food helps reduce tear stains. Her coat is brighter and healthier. White fish is the main ingredient. It provides high protein, keeping her energetic and happy. Feeding is easy with this 3.3 lb bag. Perfect size for small breeds. Our pup enjoys every meal. Highly recommend for light-coated adult dogs.
9. IAMS Proactive Health Small Breed Dog Food Dry with Real Chicken, 7 lb. Bag
- Brand: IAMS
- Manufacturer: Mars Petcare US
- Color: Chicken
- Dimensions: Height: 16.0 Inches Width: 8.75 Inches Length: 5.25 Inches Weight: 3.198 pounds `
Packed with real chicken, this dry dog food supports small breed health and energy. Crafted to meet the needs of small dogs, it helps maintain strong muscles and a shiny coat. Nutrients are balanced to support digestion and overall wellness. Each 7 lb. bag offers lasting freshness and great taste your dog will enjoy. Perfect for daily feeding to keep your pet happy and active.
Advantages
- Real chicken provides high-quality protein for strong muscles.
- Small kibble size fits perfectly in small dogs’ mouths.
- Supports healthy digestion with added fiber and nutrients.
- Promotes shiny coat and healthy skin with essential fatty acids.
- Helps maintain a healthy weight for active small breed dogs.
Our Recommendations
Our small dog loves the IAMS Proactive Health dry food with real chicken. She eats it eagerly every day. The 7 lb. bag lasts a good time and saves trips to the store. Noticeably healthier coat and more energy since switching to this food. Easy to store and measure out each meal. Good choice for small breed dogs needing balanced nutrition. No upset stomach or picky eating here. Simple ingredients that make me feel confident feeding my pet.
10. Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+, Senior Adult 7+ Premium Nutrition, Small Kibble, Dry Dog Food, Chicken, Brown Rice, & Barley, 5 lb Bag
- Brand: Hill’s Science Diet
- Manufacturer: Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc.
- Color: Multicolor
- Dimensions: Height: 11.25 inches Width: 5.5 inches Length: 7.25 inches Weight: 5.0 pounds `
Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ offers balanced nutrition for senior dogs. Small kibble size helps older dogs chew easily. Made with real chicken, brown rice, and barley for good taste and health. Supports strong muscles and healthy digestion with quality ingredients. Ideal for dogs aged seven and older to stay active and happy.
Advantages
- Supports healthy aging with balanced nutrients for senior dogs.
- Small kibble size helps older dogs chew and digest easily.
- Chicken, brown rice, and barley provide tasty, wholesome ingredients.
- Promotes strong muscles and good energy levels for active seniors.
- Includes antioxidants to support the immune system and overall health.
Our Recommendations
My senior dog loves the taste of Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+. He eats it quickly every day. Noticeable improvement in his energy and coat shine after a few weeks. The small kibble size is perfect for his older teeth. Ingredients like chicken, brown rice, and barley seem healthy and natural. Feeding time is easier now with this dry dog food. Great option for dogs aged 7 and older needing premium nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Ingredients Are Best For Maltese Dog Food?
High-quality proteins, healthy fats, and limited fillers suit Maltese dogs best.
How Often Should I Feed My Maltese Dog Daily?
Feed small meals 2 to 3 times daily to keep energy steady.
Can Maltese Dogs Eat Grain-free Dog Food?
Yes, many Maltese dogs do well on grain-free food to avoid allergies.
What Food Should I Avoid For My Maltese Dog?
Avoid foods with artificial additives, fillers, and common allergens like corn.
Buying Guide On Best Dog Foods For Maltese
1. Check Ingredients for High-Quality Protein
Protein helps Maltese dogs build strong muscles and stay active. Choose dog food with real meat like chicken, beef, or fish listed first. Avoid fillers like corn or soy that add no nutrition.
2. Look for Small Kibble Size
Maltese dogs have small mouths and teeth. Small kibble is easier for them to chew and digest. Large pieces can cause choking or discomfort while eating.
3. Select Food with Balanced Nutrients
Balanced nutrients support overall health and energy. Find dog food with vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids. These help maintain shiny coats, healthy skin, and good eyesight.
4. Consider Grain-Free or Limited Grain Options
Some Maltese dogs have grain allergies or sensitivities. Grain-free or limited grain formulas reduce the risk of stomach upset and itching. Watch for ingredients like rice or oats.
5. Pick Food Suitable for Your Dog’s Age
Puppies, adults, and senior Maltese have different needs. Puppy food supports growth, while adult food maintains health. Senior formulas help with joints and digestion.
6. Review Brand Reputation and Recalls
Choose brands known for quality and safety. Check for recent recalls or complaints. Reliable brands provide consistent, safe nutrition for your Maltese.
7. Observe Your Dog’s Reaction to New Food
Watch for changes in energy, stool, or coat after switching food. Good dog food improves health without causing diarrhea or allergies. Adjust diet if problems appear.
Conclusion
Choosing the right food helps your Maltese stay healthy and happy. Good dog food supports strong bones, shiny fur, and high energy. Small breeds like Maltese need special nutrients and small-sized kibble. Always check the ingredients to avoid fillers and harmful additives.
Quality protein and balanced vitamins make a big difference. Feeding your dog well can prevent health problems later. Remember, each dog is unique, so watch how your Maltese reacts to new food. Consult your vet for advice if unsure. A healthy diet is key to your dog’s long life and joy.
Simple, nutritious food keeps your furry friend playful every day. Careful choices show your love in the best way. Your Maltese deserves the best food to thrive and feel great. Keep their needs in mind, and you’ll see the results soon.
Good food, happy dog!