Highland Maltie
The Highland Maltie is a cross between the West Highland White Terrier and the Maltese. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Highland Maltie. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier, affectionately known as the Westie, is a small but sturdy terrier breed with a compact and well-balanced build designed for pursuing prey into underground burrows. Males typically stand 10 to 11 inches at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller at 9 to 10 inches, with both sexes weighing between 13 to 22 pounds. The breed presents a notably substantial body for its size, with a deep chest that reaches to the elbows and a relatively short, muscular back that conveys strength and endurance. Their overall silhouette is rectangular rather than square, with the body slightly longer than tall. The Westie's most distinctive feature is its brilliant white double coat, which serves as protection against the harsh Scottish climate where the breed originated. The outer coat consists of straight, hard hair approximately two inches long that provides weather resistance, while the dense, soft undercoat offers insulation. The coat naturally parts along the spine and requires regular grooming to maintain its characteristic texture and appearance. The head is adorned with a profuse amount of hair that frames the face, giving the Westie its endearing expression. The coat should never be soft or silky, as the proper harsh texture is essential for breed type. The breed possesses a distinctively shaped head with a slightly domed skull and a definite stop between the skull and muzzle. Their dark, almond-shaped eyes are set wide apart and convey an alert, intelligent expression, enhanced by heavy eyebrows. The small, erect ears are pointed and set on the outer edge of the skull, covered with short, velvety hair. The black nose is large and prominent, and the jaws are strong with a scissors bite. The tail is carrot-shaped, relatively short, and carried jauntily erect. The feet are round, compact, and slightly turned outward, with thick pads well-suited for digging, reflecting the breed's earth dog heritage.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament This breed possesses a natural alertness that makes them excellent watchdogs, readily barking to announce visitors or unusual activities. However, their vocal tendencies can become excessive without proper training. Westies have substantial energy levels for their size and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviors such as digging or excessive barking. They adapt well to various living situations, including apartments, provided their exercise needs are met. Their cheerful, plucky personality and portable size have made them beloved companions, though prospective owners should understand that beneath their adorable appearance lies a true terrier with all the tenacity and spirit the group is known for.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, sometimes called Westie lung disease, is a progressive and ultimately fatal lung condition that primarily affects middle-aged to older West Highland White Terriers. The disease causes scarring of lung tissue, leading to breathing difficulties and exercise intolerance. Unfortunately, treatment options are limited and focus on managing symptoms. Other health considerations include copper storage disease affecting the liver, patellar luxation, cataracts, dry eye, and white dog shaker syndrome, which causes tremors in affected dogs. Dental disease affects many Westies and requires regular dental care. Responsible breeding practices including health testing help reduce the incidence of hereditary conditions in the breed.
Maltese
The Maltese is a toy breed distinguished by its elegant appearance and luxurious white coat that has made it a prized companion for thousands of years. Adults typically stand 7 to 9 inches at the shoulder and weigh under 7 pounds according to breed standards, with most individuals falling between 4 to 7 pounds. Despite their diminutive size, the Maltese possesses a compact, fine-boned body that is slightly longer than tall. The breed moves with a smooth, flowing gait that makes the long coat appear to glide effortlessly, creating an impression of refined grace and beauty that has captivated admirers throughout history. The Maltese's single-layer coat is perhaps its most defining characteristic, consisting of long, silky, pure white hair that hangs straight and flat, parting naturally along the spine and reaching to the ground in mature show dogs. Unlike many breeds, the Maltese lacks an undercoat, which contributes to reduced shedding but requires dedicated grooming to prevent matting. The coat texture should be silky rather than cottony, and the pure white coloring may show light ivory or lemon tinting on the ears, which is acceptable but less desirable. Many pet owners choose to keep their Maltese in a shorter puppy clip for easier maintenance while preserving the breed's charm. The head is moderately rounded with a slight stop, supporting large, dark, round eyes that convey a gentle, alert expression. The characteristic dark eye rims, nose leather, and lips create a striking contrast against the white coat and contribute to what fanciers call the Maltese's halo effect. The drop ears are set low and are heavily feathered with long hair that blends with the neck coat. The nose is black and prominently placed on a moderately long muzzle. The tail is plumed with long silky hair and curves gracefully over the back. The overall impression is one of a refined, aristocratic toy dog that combines beauty with surprising sturdiness for its small stature.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Maltese are typically friendly toward strangers once properly introduced, though they can be alert watchdogs who will bark to announce visitors. Some individuals may be prone to excessive barking without proper training. While generally amiable with other dogs and pets, Maltese may not recognize their small size and can sometimes display boldness toward much larger dogs, requiring supervision during interactions. The breed adapts exceptionally well to apartment living and does not require extensive exercise, though daily walks and play sessions are important for physical and mental well-being. Their trusting, sweet disposition combined with their portable size has made them ideal therapy dogs and devoted household companions.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Portosystemic shunt, a liver condition where blood bypasses the liver, affects approximately 4 percent of Maltese and can cause poor growth, neurological symptoms, and urinary problems. Hypoglycemia, particularly in puppies, is a significant concern due to their small size and limited energy reserves, requiring careful attention to regular feeding schedules. White dog shaker syndrome causes generalized tremors in affected individuals and typically responds well to treatment. Progressive retinal atrophy leading to vision loss, heart conditions including patent ductus arteriosus, and tear staining are additional health considerations. Obtaining puppies from breeders who conduct appropriate health testing helps reduce the risk of inherited conditions in this treasured breed.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Highland Maltie may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the West Highland White Terrier and Maltese to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.