Best Pet Insurance for Malteses (2026)
Malteses are prone to dental disease, luxating patella, and eye conditions—issues that can require expensive veterinary treatment throughout their 12–15 year lifespan. Pet insurance is especially valuable for this toy breed because routine dental cleanings, orthopedic care, and ophthalmology visits add up quickly, yet their small size means individual vet bills can sometimes be overlooked until problems become severe.
The best pet insurance for Malteses balances affordability with comprehensive coverage for hereditary and breed-specific conditions. Look for plans that cover orthopedic issues (like patellar luxation), dental disease, and eye problems without long waiting periods—and ideally include optional wellness add-ons to offset preventive care costs that keep Malteses healthy.
Insurance pricing varies by location, dog age, and coverage level. Monthly estimates are national averages for adult dogs. This page contains referral links — pupprofiles.dog may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Our Top Pick
Healthy Paws Pet Insurance
The only major insurer with truly unlimited coverage — no annual cap and no lifetime limit, making it ideal for breeds with known hereditary conditions.
Healthy Paws
Healthy Paws Pet Insurance
Best for unlimited coverageUnlimited coverage protects Malteses against expensive hereditary conditions like patellar luxation and eye disease without annual caps, ensuring lifelong support.
- No annual or lifetime coverage limits
- Covers hereditary & congenital conditions
- Average claim reimbursement in 2 days
Embrace
Embrace Pet Insurance
Best for comprehensive coverageShrinking deductibles reward Maltese owners for claim-free years, while orthopedic coverage supports early patellar luxation treatment without long waiting periods.
- Covers accidents, illness, orthopedic conditions, cancer
- Shrinking deductible — decreases $50 each claim-free year
- Optional wellness rewards add-on
Trupanion
Trupanion Pet Insurance
Best for direct vet paymentDirect vet payment eliminates reimbursement delays for Maltese dental and orthopedic emergencies, crucial for owners managing frequent small-breed health issues.
- Pays vet directly — no reimbursement wait
- 90% of eligible costs covered
- No per-incident, annual, or lifetime payout limits
Lemonade
Lemonade Pet Insurance
Best app experience & fast claimsApp-based claims filing suits busy Maltese owners, while affordable rates and preventive add-ons help cover routine dental care this toy breed requires.
- Claims filed and approved via app in minutes
- Most affordable starting rates
- Optional preventive care add-on
Figo
Figo Pet Insurance
Best for multi-pet householdsCloud-based health records track Maltese dental and eye care history over time, helping owners and vets coordinate breed-specific preventive treatment.
- Up to 100% reimbursement option
- Cloud-based pet health records
- Multi-pet discount available
Pets Best
Pets Best Pet Insurance
Best budget accident & illnessBudget-friendly premiums with wellness add-on coverage make routine Maltese dental cleanings and exams affordable throughout their long lifespan.
- Among the lowest monthly premiums available
- No upper age limit for enrollment
- BestWellness add-on covers routine care
Spot
Spot Pet Insurance
Best customizable planCustomizable deductibles let Maltese owners balance premiums with coverage, while telehealth access supports early detection of ear and eye infections.
- Most flexible deductible & reimbursement options
- Covers microchip, behavioral therapy, and telehealth
- No per-incident deductibles
How to Choose Pet Insurance for Malteses
Malteses are exceptionally prone to patellar luxation (knee dislocation) and dental disease, making orthopedic and dental coverage critical. Avoid plans with long waiting periods for orthopedic conditions, as this breed often shows early signs of joint weakness. Compare reimbursement rates and deductibles specifically for hereditary conditions, since Malteses from reputable breeders should ideally have genetic screening—but coverage gaps leave owners vulnerable to costly treatment if issues arise.
Dental care is non-negotiable for Malteses due to their small jaws and crowded teeth; many develop tartar and gum disease by age 3–4. Seek plans with optional wellness add-ons that cover professional cleanings, or at minimum, plans that reimburse dental disease treatment (not just cleanings). Standard policies often exclude routine dental care, so this add-on recoupes costs quickly.
Finally, consider claims processing speed and reimbursement method. Malteses' small size means individual bills may be under $500, so fast reimbursement (2–3 days) keeps out-of-pocket costs manageable for owners who can't float large balances. Direct-pay options eliminate the wait altogether, reducing financial strain during unexpected eye or ear infections common in the breed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Malteses have more dental problems than other dog breeds?
Yes. Malteses' small jaws and crowded teeth predispose them to tartar buildup, gum disease, and tooth loss starting as early as age 3–4. Professional cleanings cost $300–800 per procedure, and untreated dental disease can lead to infections and extractions costing thousands. Pet insurance with dental add-ons or plans covering dental disease significantly reduce lifetime costs.
What is patellar luxation and why is it common in Malteses?
Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap dislocates from its groove, causing limping or lameness. It's prevalent in Malteses due to their toy-breed genetics and small frame. Surgery ranges from $1,500–$3,500 per knee. Insurance covering orthopedic conditions without long waiting periods is essential, since early intervention prevents arthritis and improves outcomes.
Are Maltese eye problems covered by pet insurance?
Many plans cover eye disease treatment (like progressive retinal atrophy or cataracts), but exclude routine eye exams unless you add a wellness rider. Malteses commonly develop tear staining and eye infections requiring vet visits ($150–400 each). Confirm your policy covers both disease treatment and preventive eye care to manage breed-specific issues effectively.
Maltese Full Breed Profile
Temperament, health conditions, care guides, and adoption resources.