Maltese Puppy Feeding Schedule
Age-by-age feeding guide for Maltese puppies — from 8 weeks to adulthood
Maltese puppies may be small, but their nutritional needs per pound are higher than larger breeds. Small breed puppies have fast metabolisms and limited glycogen reserves, making them susceptible to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) if meals are missed. Feeding your Maltese puppy requires small, frequent meals of calorie-dense food to maintain stable blood sugar and fuel their rapid early growth. Most Maltese puppies reach adult size by 9-12 months, which is earlier than larger breeds.
Maltese Puppy Calorie Needs by Age
| Age | Daily Calories | Kibble (cups/day) | Meals/Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-4 months | 169 kcal | 0.4 cups | 3-4 meals |
| 4-6 months | 207 kcal | 0.5 cups | 3 meals |
| 6-9 months | 213 kcal | 0.6 cups | 2-3 meals |
| 9-12 months | 246 kcal | 0.6 cups | 2 meals |
| 12-18 months | 241 kcal | 0.6 cups | 2 meals |
Note: Feeding guidelines are estimates based on standard veterinary formulas. Every dog is different — consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Daily Puppy Feeding Schedule
Morning (7 AM)
1/3 of daily portion
Midday (12 PM)
1/3 of daily portion
Evening (5 PM)
1/3 of daily portion
Puppy Feeding Tip
Maltese Puppy Growth Chart
Expected weight ranges for Maltese puppies by month. Use this as a reference to ensure your puppy is growing at a healthy rate.
| Age | Male (lbs) | Female (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 months | 1.6-5.6 lbs(avg 3.6) | 1.5-4.5 lbs(avg 3) |
| 3 months | 2-6 lbs(avg 4) | 1.9-4.9 lbs(avg 3.4) |
| 4 months | 2.4-6.4 lbs(avg 4.4) | 2.2-5.2 lbs(avg 3.7) |
| 5 months | 2.8-6.8 lbs(avg 4.8) | 2.5-5.5 lbs(avg 4) |
| 6 months | 3.2-7.2 lbs(avg 5.2) | 2.9-5.9 lbs(avg 4.4) |
| 8 months | 3.8-7.8 lbs(avg 5.8) | 3.4-6.4 lbs(avg 4.9) |
| 10 months | 4.4-8.4 lbs(avg 6.4) | 4-7 lbs(avg 5.5) |
| 12 months | 5-9 lbs(avg 7) | 4.5-7.5 lbs(avg 6) |
Transitioning Your Maltese to Adult Food
Most Maltese puppies are ready for adult food at 9-12 months, as small breeds mature earlier. Look for a small-breed adult formula with appropriately sized kibble and calorie-dense nutrition.
7-Day Transition Schedule
Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Feeding Guidelines Disclaimer
The feeding recommendations on DosageGuide.com are estimates based on standard veterinary nutrition formulas (RER = 70 × weight^0.75) and general guidelines from AAFCO and veterinary nutrition resources.
Every dog is unique. Actual calorie needs vary based on breed, metabolism, activity level, health conditions, spay/neuter status, and the specific food brand you use. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice.
These guides are for general reference and do not replace professional veterinary guidance. Adjust portions based on your dog's body condition score and weight trends.