Maltese Puppy Care: The First 30 Days at Home

Bringing home a Maltese puppy is pure joy, and a big change for a tiny dog. A calm, consistent routine for the first 30 days helps your puppy feel safe and sets them up for life.

Before day one

• Set up a small, cozy puppy zone with a crate, bed, water and puppy pads.
• Puppy-proof cords, small objects and stairs.
• Book a vet visit within 72 hours of arrival.

Week 1: Settling in

Keep things quiet. Let your puppy explore one or two rooms, offer plenty of naps (puppies sleep 18–20 hours a day) and limit visitors. Feed the same food we sent home to avoid tummy upsets.

Feeding

Maltese puppies have tiny stomachs and can be prone to low blood sugar. Offer 3–4 small meals a day at regular times and keep fresh water available.

Week 2: Building routines

Start a predictable schedule: wake, potty, breakfast, play, nap. Take your puppy to the potty spot after every meal, nap and play session, and praise them warmly when they get it right.

Week 3: Gentle socialization

Introduce new sounds, surfaces and kind people in short, positive sessions. Carry your puppy to see the world safely until vaccinations are complete.

Week 4: Grooming & handling

Brush for a few minutes daily, touch paws and ears, and wipe around the eyes. These small habits make grooming easy for life.

When to call your vet

Call right away if your puppy is lethargic, refuses food for more than one meal, has vomiting or diarrhea, or seems weak or wobbly.

And remember: we are always here to help. Just send us a message.