Lifespan
The Maltese is a generally healthy dog breed, and depending on the other breed it has been mixed with, you can expect your Black Maltese to live for about 12 – 15 years.
Still, your Black Maltese could be vulnerable to some of the common health problems that affect purebred Maltese. These include:
Collapsed Trachea
Tracheal collapse is a condition that is common to small and toy breed dogs. If your furry friend has a collapsed trachea, they will have a consistent dry cough. Fortunately, this condition is treatable, either through surgery or medication.
Patella Luxation
This is a developmental problem that affects the kneecaps, leading to pain when walking. It is possible for your pooch to live normally with the condition, though in extreme cases, it can be crippling.
Does Black Maltese Have Skin Problems?
Your Black Maltese is susceptible to different kinds of skin problems, such as sebaceous adenitis, which is characterized by hair loss and dry, scaly skin, and Malassezia dermatitis, which is characterized by hairless, greasy patches of skin. If you keep the hair of your Black Maltese long, parting of the hair on the back can also lead to sunburns.
Are Maltese Smelly?
Generally, Maltese are not smelly dogs.
In some cases, however, your four legged buddy can develop a foul smell. If you notice that your Maltese has become smelly, this could be caused by dirt, accumulation of body oil, issues to do with the anal glands, yeast infection, ear infection, a skin infection, or bad breath.