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Crating a Maltese is a different exercise from crating a large dog. The breed is tiny, deeply attached to its people, and more likely to worry about being left alone than to break out through the bars. A crate for a Maltese needs to feel cozy and secure, keep a small dog warm, and often double as a travel carrier. This guide explains crate sizes and types for a 4 to 7 pound dog, how to make crate time comfortable, and how to avoid the problems that come with a crate that is too big or placed too far from the family.
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What size crate does a Maltese need?
Most adult Maltese fit comfortably in a crate around 18 to 24 inches long. A 22 or 24 inch crate gives room for a small bed and water. The dog should be able to stand without its head touching the top, turn around easily, and lie stretched out. Oversized crates can make house training harder, since a puppy may use one end as a toilet.
Homey Pet 24 Inch Small Dog Crate for Puppy, Copper Gold Wire Cage Kennel
Included for 'Best Dog Crate for Maltese' because the listing specifies Copper Gold Wire Cage Kennel, details this guide uses to compare options.
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DUMOS 24 Inch Dog Crate, Foldable Puppy Small Dog Cage Pet Kennel
Included for 'Best Dog Crate for Maltese' because the listing specifies Foldable Puppy Small Dog Cage Pet Kennel, details this guide uses to compare options.
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Carlson Pink Secure and Compact Single Door Metal Dog Crate, Small
Included for 'Best Dog Crate for Maltese' because the listing specifies Small, details this guide uses to compare options.
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BestPet | Dog Crate | 18" | Black | Foldable Metal Kennel with Single Doors
Included for 'Best Dog Crate for Maltese' because the listing specifies Dog Crate and 18", details this guide uses to compare options.
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Amazon Basics Portable, Foldable Metal Wire Small Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Divider Panel, Single Door, Easy to Assemble, 24" x 18" x 20", Black
Included for 'Best Dog Crate for Maltese' because the listing specifies Foldable Metal Wire Small Dog Crate with Removable Tray and Divider Panel, details this guide uses to compare options.
View on AmazonCrate types for a Maltese
See also: Best Electric Dog Fences for Reliable, Humane Containment • Best Dog Boots for Basset Hound
| Crate type | Typical price range (small) | Best use | Things to consider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small wire crate (22 – 24 in) | Check on Amazon | Home crate, house training | Cover for a den feel and warmth |
| Plastic kennel | Check on Amazon | Car travel, cozy den at home | Good draft protection |
| Soft-sided carrier crate | Check on Amazon | Travel, visiting, in-cabin flights | Only for calm, crate-trained dogs |
| Playpen or exercise pen | Check on Amazon | Longer periods alone, puppy area | More space with a bed and pad |
| Furniture-style crate | Check on Amazon | Living room crate | Fine for non-chewers |
Features that suit a Maltese
Narrow wire spacing
Tiny Maltese puppies can squeeze through or get paws and jaws caught in wire designed for larger dogs. Choose a crate with close spacing, especially for young puppies under 3 pounds.
Warmth and draft protection
The Maltese has a single coat with no undercoat, so it feels drafts. A plastic kennel or a wire crate with a cover over the top and sides keeps warmth in. Place the crate away from air vents and cold windows.
Light and portable
Many Maltese travel with their owners. A light crate or carrier with a secure latch that fits under an airline seat or in the back seat is useful. Check airline dimension rules before you buy for flights.
Where to place the crate
The Maltese is a companion breed that wants to be near people. Placing the crate in the bedroom at night or in the family room during the day helps it settle. A crate in a far-off room can increase anxiety and barking.
Crate training a Maltese
Keep sessions short and positive. Feed meals in the crate, drop treats inside, and let the puppy nap there with the door open. Gradually close the door for short periods while you are nearby. Toy-breed puppies have small bladders, so they need frequent bathroom breaks; a 3-month-old might need to go out every 2 to 3 hours during the day.
Puppy pads or not?
Some Maltese owners use a playpen with a bed on one side and a pad on the other for longer absences. This can suit a toy breed well but may slow outdoor house training. Choose one system and be consistent.
Comfort and safety
Add a soft bed or crate pad and a small, non-tip water bowl for longer periods. Remove collars and harnesses in the crate to avoid snags. Avoid leaving tiny chews or toys that could be swallowed. Watch for signs of stress such as constant crying, drooling, or scratching at the door; separation anxiety is common in companion breeds and may need help from a trainer or veterinarian.
Low blood sugar alert
Maltese puppies can develop low blood sugar if they miss meals or get chilled. If a puppy in a crate is unusually weak, wobbly, or trembling, contact a veterinarian immediately.
FAQ
What size crate is best for a Maltese?
Most adults do well in an 18 to 24 inch crate. A 22 or 24 inch size gives room for a small bed without being too large for house training.
Should I cover my Maltese’s crate?
A breathable cover over the top and sides can help a Maltese feel secure and stay warm, as long as the front stays open for airflow.
Bottom line
For a Maltese, choose a 22 to 24 inch wire crate with close wire spacing or a small plastic kennel, add a warm bed, and place it near the family. Use a soft carrier for travel once your dog is calm in a crate, and keep puppies on a frequent schedule for meals and bathroom breaks.
