The Maltese is a small, but might dog breed best known for its affectionate nature and luxurious, floor-length white coat.
These dogs originated on the Mediterranean island of Malta and have been loyal companions for centuries, with references to the breed found in Ancient Greek and Roman literature. Maltese dogs make wonderful companions, however they are genetically predisposed to several health concerns, including luxating patella, patent ductus arteriosus, liver shunts and dental disease.
The good news is that including raw venison in your dog’s bowl can assist in supporting these ailments. Here’s how…
Luxating Patella
It is common for small breeds, such as Maltese, to develop luxating patella or ‘slipped kneecap’ due to their skeletal structure. This condition causes the kneecap to move out of place, leading to intermittent lameness and discomfort. Genetics, poor muscle tone, and inadequate nutrition during development can increase risk.
Reducing processed foods limits systemic inflammation, which can worsen joint instability.
A raw diet rich in lean, bioavailable protein can help build strong muscles to support joint stability. Venison is particularly beneficial because it is low in inflammatory compounds, supporting a healthy weight (excess weight puts more strain on joints) and rich in B vitamins, zinc, and iron, essential for muscle development and repair.
Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
PDA is an inherited condition where the ductus arteriosus (a normal fetal blood vessel) does not close after birth. This condition forces the left side of the heart to work harder, which can cause heart enlargement and failure if untreated.
While PDA often requires surgical correction, nutrition plays a crucial role in supporting heart health before and after intervention.
Avoiding high-carb kibble prevents excess insulin spikes that may put strain on the heart. Because Venison is a lean protein, it helps maintain ideal body weight and reduces cardiac stress. It is also rich in CoQ10 precursors, iron and taurine, nutrients that are important for cardiac function.
Adding Green-lipped mussels to your Maltese’s diet can also be beneficial, as they contain taurine and omega 3s which are both crucial for heart cell membrane integrity and rhythm regulation.
Liver Shunts (Portosystemic Shunts)
Liver shunts in Maltese dogs are typically congenital and interfere with the liver’s ability to filter toxins from the blood. Symptoms can include neurological signs, stunted growth, and digestive issues.
A raw diet is easier to digest than processed food, minimizing waste byproducts that an impaired liver struggles to filter.
Dogs with liver shunts benefit from a high-quality, low purine protein such as Venison. Huntaway’s Freeze-Dried and Frozen Raw Dog Food is 100% natural, and free from additives, grains and preservatives that have elevate the toxin load on the liver.
Dental Disease
Like all other toy breeds, Maltese dogs are at a heightened risk of periodontal disease. This can lead to bad breath, red and inflamed gums, loose teeth, and other symptoms that can be painful for your Maltese.
Putting a daily tooth brushing routine in place to care for your dog’s dental hygiene can help combat this issue, while a raw diet avoids starches, which are the primary fuel for harmful oral bacteria.
Nutrition is more than just food, it’s a functional therapy for you dog. We understand how important it is to find the best dog food for your Maltese. A raw venison based diet provides a clean, digestible protein that supports everything from joint integrity, to liver and heart function.
