Maltese dogs are best known for their long, silky, pure-white coats that flow elegantly to the floor. But did you know that these charming little dogs can also show subtle variations in color, shade, and markings?
While the breed standard recognizes white as the hallmark color, many Maltese owners notice slight ivory, cream, or light lemon hues, especially around the ears or muzzle. These tiny differences often come down to genetics, environment, and grooming care.
When I first brought home my Maltese, Bella, I remember being surprised that her fur wasn’t a blinding white like I’d seen in photos. Instead, her ears had the faintest hint of gold that shimmered in the sunlight.
At first, I thought it was dirt (and admittedly gave her an unnecessary bath), but my vet later explained that these slight tints are completely natural and even charming. It’s one of the things that makes each Maltese unique, no two coats are ever exactly the same.
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ALL Maltese Dog Fur Colors
Though white is the classic look for the Maltese, slight tints of cream, ivory, or lemon can appear naturally. These delicate shades don’t take away from the dog’s beauty, they often add depth and individuality. Coat color can depend on genetics, exposure to sunlight, and even diet or grooming habits.
| Color Name | Shade Description | Coat Type |
| Pure White | Bright, snow-white coat | Long, silky |
| Ivory White | Warm white with a creamy tone | Long, smooth |
| Lemon White | White with faint yellow tint | Silky |
| Champagne | Pale beige-gold hue | Long, wavy |
| Cream | Soft, off-white beige | Silky |
| Light Tan | Very pale brownish tone | Long, fluffy |
| Apricot | Soft orange-blonde | Wavy |
| Black (Mixed Line) | Solid or spotted black coat | Dense |
| White with Tan Ears | White body, tan-tipped ears | Silky |
| White with Lemon Markings | White with faint yellow patches | Silky |
Maltese Dog Puppy Colors
Maltese puppies are sometimes born with slightly darker markings that gradually fade as they grow. Some pups might show light beige spots on their ears or back, which often disappear by the time they reach one year old. This transitional coloring is completely normal and part of their developmental process.
| Color Name | Puppy Coat Appearance | Adult Transition Color | Notes |
| Pure White | Bright white | White | Most desired purebred color |
| Cream | Soft beige or tan tone | Turns lighter to ivory | Common in young puppies |
| Lemon Tint | White with yellow shading | Fades to white | Often temporary |
| Light Tan | Warm beige | Fades to cream | Seen in early weeks only |
| Champagne | Light beige-gold | May fade or darken slightly | Rare puppy color |
Common Maltese Dog Colors
The most common colors include pure white, white with light lemon patches, and white with faint ivory tones. These shades are still accepted within most kennel club standards and maintain that elegant Maltese appearance we all adore.
| Color Name | Shade Description |
| Pure White | Snow-white, silky coat |
| Ivory White | Slightly creamy white |
| Lemon White | White with yellow hue |
| Cream | Off-white with beige tone |
Popular Maltese Dog Colors
Among pet owners and breeders, pure white remains the most popular. However, slightly tinted coats, especially cream or ivory, have recently gained appreciation for their unique charm and warmth.
| Color Name | Popularity Reason | Shade Description |
| Pure White | Classic and elegant | Snow white coat |
| Ivory White | Warm tone, family favorite | Creamy white |
| White with Tan Ears | Unique markings | White coat with tan-tipped ears |
| Lemon Tint | Subtle color variation | White with faint lemon hue |
Rare Maltese Dog Colors
True deviations like black, brown, or chocolate coats are extremely rare and often occur only in Maltese mixes rather than purebreds. Some rare colors seen online are the result of selective crossbreeding or digital editing, not natural Maltese genetics.
| Color Name | Rarity | Genetic Origin | Notes |
| Champagne | Very Rare | Recessive pigment | Light golden-white tone |
| Light Tan | Rare | Mixed lineage | Seen in puppy coats |
| Apricot | Very Rare | Crossbreed or mutation | Golden-peach hue |
| Black Maltese | Extremely Rare | Maltese mix | Not a purebred Maltese |
| White with Lemon or Tan Markings | Rare | Natural variation | Often fades with age |
Color Genetics in Maltese Dogs Explained
Understanding the genetics behind Maltese coat colors helps explain why pure white dominates the breed. The Maltese carries a recessive gene that suppresses pigment production, resulting in their snowy coats. However, other genes can subtly influence the hue of their fur or skin, creating light lemon or ivory undertones.
For example, the tyrosinase gene, responsible for melanin production, can vary in activity. When slightly active, it may produce small patches of pale cream pigment on certain areas of the body. Additionally, exposure to sunlight can slightly oxidize fur proteins, creating a temporary golden tint, particularly in dogs with longer outdoor time.
While breeders aim to maintain a white coat to adhere to the show standard, minor color variations do not affect health or personality. It’s simply nature’s way of adding individuality to an already adorable companion.
Maltese Markings and Coat Patterns
Purebred Maltese dogs rarely display dramatic coat patterns, but small markings can appear. The most typical are faint cream or lemon shadings on the ears, muzzle, or paws. These markings are often symmetrical and may fade with age or grooming. There are also other, less common patterns that some Maltese owners notice:
- Ear shading: Slight ivory or cream color that appears mostly on the tips of the ears.
- Facial highlights: Light lemon streaks around the muzzle or eyes that create a warm contrast.
- Back shading: Some dogs have a subtle golden hue on the spine area, especially after sun exposure.
- Tail tip coloring: Rarely, a Maltese might have a faint cream or silvery tone on the tail tip.
- Temporary staining: Tear stains or saliva marks around the mouth and eyes can mimic color changes but are not genetic.
Maltese coats are made up of fine, single-layered hair rather than a double fur coat. This unique texture makes them less prone to shedding but more sensitive to environmental factors like humidity, sun, and grooming products.
Maltese Mixes and Their Unique Color Variations
When Maltese dogs are mixed with other breeds, color diversity increases dramatically. Crosses like the Maltipoo (Maltese + Poodle), Morkie (Maltese + Yorkshire Terrier), or Malshi (Maltese + Shih Tzu) often display shades ranging from apricot and silver to brown, black, and cream. Here’s how the most common mixes influence coat colors:
- Maltipoo: Usually cream, apricot, or light tan with a soft, curly texture inherited from the Poodle parent.
- Morkie: Can inherit the Yorkie’s signature blue and tan combination or develop a golden sheen.
- Malshi: Often white with beige, gold, or silver streaks, giving a shimmery two-tone look.
- Maltese-Chihuahua Mix: May produce fawn, light brown, or even black coats depending on the dominant gene.
- Maltese-Pomeranian Mix: Can have fluffy, cream-to-caramel shades with thicker fur and more volume.
Do Maltese Dogs Change Color Over Time?
Yes, Maltese coats can subtly change over time, particularly during puppyhood and as they mature into adults. Puppies often start with slight cream or tan shading, which usually fades as the adult coat grows in. Environmental factors like sunlight exposure, bathing products, and even diet can influence these changes.
In senior Maltese dogs, coats may become slightly duller or take on a yellowish tint due to natural aging or reduced grooming oils in the skin. Regular maintenance, professional grooming, and omega-3-rich diets can help keep their coats bright and healthy.
It’s important to note that coat discoloration around the eyes or mouth is often from tear staining rather than an actual color change. Using gentle, vet-approved cleaning wipes and filtered water can minimize staining and help your Maltese maintain its pristine appearance.
FAQs
Are Maltese dogs always white?
Most purebred Maltese dogs are white, but slight cream or ivory tones can appear naturally without affecting the breed’s standard or health.
Do Maltese puppies change color as they grow?
Yes. Puppies sometimes have small beige or lemon patches that fade as they reach maturity, revealing their signature bright white coat.
What causes discoloration around a Maltese dog’s eyes or mouth?
That’s usually tear staining, a result of natural tears reacting with bacteria or minerals in water. It’s common and treatable with proper grooming.
Are colored Maltese dogs purebred?
Typically, purebred Maltese are white. Other colors like brown or black often indicate crossbreeding with another small companion breed.
How can I keep my Maltese dog’s coat white?
Regular grooming, gentle whitening shampoos, a healthy diet, and avoiding excessive sunlight all help maintain a clean, bright coat.