10 Best Maltese Breeders (2024 Updated)

Most, if not all, toy dog fans have the Maltese as part of their top choice breeds. As you search for this elegant furry companion, let this article guide you to reputable Maltese breeders in the country!

The breeders in this article have been producing Malteses for several years. The bloodlines of their litter are consistent and of excellent quality since most of them have already produced award-winning puppies.

Read until the last bit to find out the best Maltese breeder in the United States where you can purchase your Maltese pup!

10 Best Places to Buy Maltese Puppies

Maltese breeders pride themselves on raising this ancient variety of small canine from Italy. Breeders on this list are recommended as they have proven records of producing excellent pups.

All of them are registered with major kennel clubs, such as the American Kennel Club and the American Maltese Association, vouching for their credibility as reputable Maltese breeders.

Without further ado, here are the best places to purchase Maltese puppies:

1. Melitica Maltese – Connecticut

Melitica Maltese is a breeder that has emerged out of a strong passion for breeding aristocratic Maltese dogs. They specialize in breeding show-quality dogs and work with internationally recognized bloodlines.

This breeder is a member of the American Kennel Club (AKC) and has won several accolades. Health is their priority, and each puppy has a health certificate for congenital diseases and proof of vaccination.

They offer a 72-hour return policy and a full refund, provided the puppy was not neglected or has not been in an accident.

To ensure responsible ownership, all puppies are adopted with a contract that includes a spay/neuter agreement. Additionally, microchipping is done before adoption.

For show-quality puppies, a contract and an exclusive AKC pedigree are provided. In their adoption contract, there is a clause stating that if the future owner cannot care for the puppy, it must be returned to the breeder.

Melitica Maltese Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: Melitica Maltese
• Address: Weston, CT 06883
• Phone: (203) 858-7007
• Email: meliticamaltese@gmail.com
• Socials: You can also follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube for updates.

2. MaltaAngel Maltese – California

Dating back to 1993, MaltaAngel Maltese is a reputable and long-standing in-home hobby Maltese exhibitor and breeder. They have been exclusively breeding AKC Maltese champions with utmost responsibility.

They earned the distinction of being the first Maltese Breeder to receive the prestigious AKC Breeder of Merit title.

They emphasize the pups’ socialization, ensuring their Maltese dogs develop wonderful, outgoing personalities.

Additionally, they are proud members and have held positions such as Vice President and Board Member of the American Maltese Association, the AKC Maltese parent club.

The breeder’s meticulous approach includes carefully planning each litter and conducting health tests on all parents before incorporating them into their breeding program.

When offering puppies, adult retirees, or show dogs for sale, they prioritize selecting special homes that provide the utmost care and love for their Maltese.

MaltaAngel Maltese Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: MaltaAngel Maltese
• Address: Pine Grove, CA 95665
• Phone: (209) 406-7554
• Email: MaltaAngel@gmail.com

3. Wild Skye Maltese – Oklahoma

Wild Skye Maltese is a reputable breeder and exhibitor located in Southern Oklahoma, specializing in producing high-quality Maltese puppies that adhere to AKC standards and are genetically sound.

The breeder has a genuine passion for raising and showcasing Maltese dogs, having been fortunate enough to work with exceptional individuals from the Maltese community.

Prospective owners are requested to provide background information about themselves and their families. All puppies from Wildskye Maltese are placed exclusively in pet homes as companions.

Puppies from this breeder are sold with a separate spay or neuter agreement and come with a written purchase and health guarantee.

AKC limited registration papers and a signed contract will also be included in the adoption.

The breeder ensures that all puppies are in good condition and healthy at the time of sale as they undergo a thorough examination by a trusted veterinarian.

Wild Skye Maltese Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: Wild Skye Maltese
• Address: Ardmore, OK 73401
• Phone: (580) 371-1147
• Email: ashleecopp@yahoo.com 

4. Bella Dolce Maltese – Arizona

Bella Dolce Maltese is a kennel in Arizona that has been active in showing Maltese dogs in conformation since 2002. As an AKC Breeder of Merit, they focus on breeding beautiful, healthy Maltese that meet the standards.

All their Maltese dogs and puppies are raised within their home, where they prioritize health, adherence to AKC standards, proper socialization, and loving temperaments.

Due to their limited number of litters, interested individuals are encouraged to complete an application. The breeder follows up with an email and conducts a phone interview as part of the screening process.

It’s important to note that the waiting list for their puppies typically ranges from six months to over a year. The breeder emphasizes that they do not have puppies readily available as they prioritize the health of their dogs.

In addition to breeding, the breeder also offers basic Maltese training and behavioral consultations. They have a deep passion for working with this breed and eagerly anticipate connecting with prospective owners.

Bella Dolce Maltese Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: Bella Dolce Maltese
• Address: Phoenix, AZ 85020
• Phone: (987) 212-2144
• Socials: They are also active on Facebook and Instagram.
• Special Note: Breeder prefers to be contacted via the website.

5. Susens Maltese – Texas

Susens Maltese has been a dedicated breeder since 1984, boasting an impressive track record of showing and breeding numerous champions throughout the years.

The breeder ensures their puppies are born from exceptional champion lines, indicating their potential for success in the show ring and acquiring titles.

While their puppies have the potential for show success, Susens Maltese offers them as pet companions to loving homes.

The breeder emphasizes that their puppies are trained to use a potty tray, aiding in their potty training process.

They take a reserved approach to vaccines, implying that they prioritize the health and well-being of their puppies while carefully considering their vaccination protocols.

The breeder approaches each litter with special consideration and thoughtful planning, ensuring the breeding pairs are carefully selected to produce exceptional offspring.

Susens Maltese Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: Susens Maltese
• Address: Cypress, TX 77433
• Phone: (281)-256-1139
• Email: susen@susensmaltese.com
• Socials: They also have a YouTube account.

6. Blossoming Gem’s Maltese – South Carolina

Blossoming Gem’s Maltese is a family-run breeding venture by Joan and her daughter Meghann. Recognizing the Maltese breed’s potential to fulfill their aspirations, they embarked on breeding their line of show-quality Maltese.

In the fall of 2020, as dog shows reopened after the Covid-19 pandemic, they began showcasing two of their bred Maltese girls.

Their Maltese are not only their breeding dogs but also cherished family pets. Although they occasionally have limited registration pups available as pets, their primary focus is on improving the quality of their breeding line.

As dedicated breeders, Blossoming Gem’s Maltese maintains memberships in esteemed organizations such as the American Maltese Association, Greater Miami Maltese Club, and Greenville Kennel Club.

Blossoming Gem’s Maltese Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: Blossoming Gem’s Maltese
• Address: Anderson, SC 29621
• Email: Blossominggemsmaltese@gmail.com
• Socials: You can also follow them on Facebook and Pinterest for updates.

7. Blissful Maltese – North Carolina

Blissful Maltese, led by Lisa Caudill, is a dedicated AKC conformation exhibitor and breeder. 

The breeder’s primary goal in breeding is to find her next show dog. However, she also offers the remaining puppies to qualified and loving forever homes as companion pets.

These puppies come from an impressive lineage of champions and grand champions, ensuring they are excellent representations of the breed.

To prioritize the well-being and development of the puppies, Lisa keeps them with their mother until they reach 12 weeks of age before they are ready to leave for their new homes.

When placing her puppies, the breeder strictly adheres to a non-breeding spay/neuter contract.

Additionally, she ensures that each puppy receives the appropriate vaccinations for their age, undergoes crate training, and receives a thorough veterinary health check before being placed with their new family.

To maintain a personalized and responsible adoption process, Blissful Maltese does not engage in shipping puppies or allowing them to be adopted by individuals the breeder has not met.

If a potential owner resides out of town, they must make the trip themselves, either by driving or flying, to pick up their chosen puppy.

Blissful Maltese Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: Blissful Maltese
• Address: Southport, NC 28461
• Phone: (513) 305-6786
• Email: Blissfulmaltese@gmail.com
• Socials: You can also contact them on Facebook.

8. Diamond Stars Maltese – New York

Based in New York, the Diamond Stars Maltese breeder specializes in breeding Maltese and actively participates in conformation dog shows.

Being a member of the American Maltese Association, a national breed club recognized by AKC, this breeder demonstrates their commitment to the Maltese breed.

All their female dogs undergo DNA health testing through Embark, ensuring the health and well-being of their breeding stock. When selling puppies, they strictly follow a pet contract with a health guarantee.

With a waiting list in place, the breeder has established a systematic process for interested individuals to reserve their desired puppy.

To inquire about reserving a puppy or being added to their waiting list, interested individuals are encouraged to contact the breeder via email or text.

Diamond Stars Maltese Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: Diamond Stars Maltese
• Address: Brooklyn, NY 11210
• Socials: They also post updates on Facebook and Instagram.
• Special Note: This breeder prefers to be contacted via her social media platforms

9. Blue Hill Maltese – Florida

Blue Hill Maltese has been involved in breeding, exhibiting, and handling dogs for 50 years. This breeder maintains a manageable program to ensure individualized socialization for each puppy.

The puppies at Blue Hill Maltese receive daily handling and oftentimes come with the owner to dog shows, exposing them to new experiences, sounds, and people.

Before they are re-homed, the puppies are vaccinated, checked for worms, and undergo a thorough examination by a veterinarian. They come with a state-certified health certificate and a one-year limited health guarantee.

Prospective buyers can apply for a puppy from Blue Hill Maltese by providing information about themselves and their preferences, allowing the breeder to assist in finding the perfect match.

Upon adoption, the puppies are sent home with vaccinations, a certificate of health, a starter bag of food, and comprehensive health information.

Blue Hill Maltese Breeder Information and Details:

• Website: Blue Hill Maltese
• Address: Milton, FL 32570
• Socials: You can also follow them on Facebook and Pinterest.

10. Musial’s Maltese – California

Elizabeth Musial, a breeder based in Southern California, specializes in breeding and showing Maltese dogs — focusing on producing top-quality Maltese for conformation shows.

As a dedicated and responsible breeder, Musial’s Maltese aligns with the mission of AKC. They are an active member of the American Maltese Association and the American Kennel Club.

Musial’s Maltese has also earned the distinction of being an AKC Breeder of Merit, highlighting their dedication to responsible breeding practices.

This breeder especially encourages possible puppy owners to conduct thorough research and come prepared with questions when considering a Maltese puppy.

This breeder’s dedication to the breed can also be seen in their efforts to compete in AKC-sanctioned conformation shows. Their pups for sale also come with AKC registration.

Musial’s Maltese Breeder Information and Details:

• Address: Placentia, CA 92870
• Phone: (714) 814 6119

All breeders listed here are proud members of the American Maltese Association (AMC) and are acknowledged AKC breeders.

If you are looking for a breeder near you, you may also check the AMC breeder directory and use their search filter by state to find the nearest Maltese breeder in your location.

Other Sources to Find Maltese Puppies for Sale

Reputable Maltese breeders usually do not produce puppies all year because they value the health of the parent dogs. You may have to wait six months for a puppy to become available.

While you wait, you can also look on the following websites for a Maltese puppy on sale:

• AKC Marketplace – The AKC Marketplace is the most trustworthy place to find Maltese pups for sale. It features Maltese breeders who adhere to the highest breeding standards and have been designated AKC Breeders of Merit. This portal has at least a hundred Maltese litters available, so your dream puppy could be just a click away.
• Good Dog – This pet advertising website reviews the quality of breeding programs used by registered Maltese breeders. You may expect more information about the health of each Maltese puppy litter and other important announcements from each breeder’s official pages on this platform.
• NextDayPets – This is another excellent resource for finding reliable Maltese breeders nationwide. Each Maltese puppy for sale is labeled with a “Signature Puppy” sticker, assuring clients that the puppies have been inspected by a veterinarian before being sold.
• PuppySpot – This website is another dependable resource for identifying available Maltese puppies. They promise clients that the puppies on their list have been checked and inspected. If you purchase a Maltese puppy from PuppySpot, it will be delivered safely to your home and come with a 10-year health warranty.

Although it is quite simple to search for puppies on various internet sites, owners seeking a new Maltese should always confirm if the seller they found reflects the characteristics of a respectable breeder.

Meanwhile, here is a cute Maltese video to lighten up your journey in finding a reputable breeder: 

How Much Does a Maltese Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses

The average cost of a Maltese puppy ranges between $1,000 and 5,000. However, the price might go up as high as $15,000 if the pup came from a champion and preserved bloodline.

Caring for your new animal furry companion also covers all of their demands. Raising Malteses may need a little more effort due to their elegant coats. Hence, you should consider how much it will cost to care for one.

You should be able to purchase essential dog supplies, routine veterinary checkups, vitamins, vaccines, and other charges before taking home one. These things ensure that your puppy grows up healthy and happy.

The following is a breakdown of the average initial cost of owning a Maltese puppy:

Remember that you don’t have to buy new stuff if you have other items in good shape, such as dog toys, crates, and beds. But keep in mind that your dog’s health should not be sacrificed to save money.

You should double-check if the hand-me-downs or reused dog items still suit your new puppy. You may also use discount coupons in pet stores nearby to save a few bucks.

How Do You Find the Best Maltese Breeders in Your Area?

Others may find it difficult to start looking for a Maltese puppy. However, if you have access to the right channels, you may be able to locate a good Maltese breeder in your state.

If you’re lucky, they might even be in your neighborhood. This way, you can save money on shipping and avoid driving a long distance to pick up your new pet.

You can do the following to find the best Maltese breeder in your area:

• Explore kennel clubs. The American Maltese Association maintains a list of Maltese breeders in various states, complete with contact information and other details. Potential buyers, however, should still check the seller’s credibility by cross-checking with AKC or other reputable club sites.
• Go to local dog shows. Meeting several breeders at a local Maltese dog show could be a nice option. This will enable you to meet breeders and view their Maltese dogs. This also helps you find people to ask for guidance and help when raising your Maltese pup.
• Ask other Maltese owners. As a well-known breed, many choose to raise Maltese puppies as pets. It would be wise to get to know other Maltese owners and ask them for breeder referrals. As pet owners themselves, they would surely only recommend reputable breeders.
• Join and follow social media groups dedicated to the breed. Maltese enthusiasts often group and connect through social media. These groups dedicated to the breed are frequently organized by enthusiasts who care about the dogs’ well-being. They may know trustworthy breeders who can refer potential buyers to.

You must put in a little extra effort to find your ideal Maltese puppy. Be bold and reach out to your local Maltese community members with questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Find the Best Maltese Breeder?

The best dog breeders in the market have a reputation for breeding and selling high-quality puppies through programs authorized by national registries like the AKC and AMC.

You must, however, be patient. These breeders frequently have long waiting lists for prospective purchasers since they only breed occasionally to ensure the health of the parent dogs and litter.

How Do You Tell If a Breeder Is a Good Breeder?

Good breeders are affiliated with major kennel registries and actively participate in canine events that aim to improve the breed. Most of them also have awards and recognitions given by canine clubs.

They also highlight the puppies’ health and well-being above everything else. They usually make every effort to find acceptable homes for the puppies.

Furthermore, a credible breeder will have multiple lines of communication on their website, a waitlist, a rigid adoption process, and proof of claims.

What Questions Should You Ask a Breeder When Buying a Puppy?

Remember to inquire about registration, procedures, and the puppy’s immunization and health requirements. You should also ask about the breeder’s breeding practices, training methods, and socialization process.

You can also inquire about the pup’s parents to gain a better understanding of how your dog will grow up — its size, physical look, and any other genetic traits.

Lastly, ask about the inclusion of the puppy package. Most reputable breeders offer contracts and health guarantees to their buyers.

How Do You Know If a Dog Breeder Is Scamming You?

Shady connections and reward claims are classic early indications of puppy mills or scammers. Prices that are significantly higher or lower than the puppy’s regular range can also signal red flags.

Some frauds also offer too-good-to-be-true freebies, while others have questionable links on their websites and social media profiles. If you notice any of these signs on a breeder, it is better to find another one to transact with.

Final Thoughts

It is highly recommended to work with reputable Maltese breeders rather than buying a puppy from backyard breeders or puppy factories. Good breeders provide health guarantees and quickly respond if an issue arises.

You should only transact with breeders who are members of the AKC or the Maltese breed’s parent club. Also, remember the tips provided in this guide to avoid getting scammed.

Nonetheless, before contacting breeders, it is best to research the breed and ensure you are prepared for the responsibility and financial demands of caring for one.

Have you decided which Maltese breeder you will get your puppy from? Let us know in the comments below!