If you’re here because you’re trying to make one practical decision after losing your Maltese, I’m so sorry. This guide is meant to keep urn sizing simple and steady—so you can choose the right capacity without second-guessing it.
Quick answer
- Sizing rule: plan for about 1 cubic inch per pound of body weight.
- Typical adult Maltese weight: about 4–7 lb.
- Minimum capacity: about 4–7 cubic inches.
- Comfort range (roomier fit): about 5–9 cubic inches (adds ~20%).
- Most Maltese dogs fit best in a Small urn—and choosing a roomier capacity is often the calmer choice for an easier closure with the inner bag.
Start shopping here: Pet Urns for Dogs. Most Maltese families shop in: Small Pet Urns (under 25 cu in).
The sizing rule (1 cubic inch per lb) and why we still size up
Urn capacity is measured in cubic inches. A practical estimate is 1 cubic inch of urn capacity for every pound of your dog’s weight. Many families choose more than the minimum because it helps the inner bag settle more easily and makes closure feel calmer—especially if your dog’s weight is an estimate or you want room for a small memento.
If you’d like to double-check your number, use the Pet Urn Size Calculator and compare it with the Complete Guide to Choosing the Perfect Urn Size.
Maltese weight to urn capacity (cubic inches)
Use your dog’s actual weight if you know it (a recent vet record is ideal). If you’re unsure, lean toward the comfort range—especially if you want the easiest closure with the inner bag.
| Your Maltese’s weight | Minimum capacity (1:1) | Comfort capacity (add ~20%) | Usually a good fit in |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 lb | 4 cu in | 5 cu in | Small |
| 5 lb | 5 cu in | 6 cu in | Small |
| 6 lb | 6 cu in | 8 cu in | Small (roomier capacity recommended) |
| 7 lb (upper end) | 7 cu in | 9 cu in | Small (choose a higher listed capacity) |
| 8–10 lb (larger / mix / overweight) | 8–10 cu in | 10–12 cu in | Small (higher capacity) or Medium (extra breathing room) |
Which Funeral.com size category fits most Maltese dogs?
Most Maltese dogs fit best in a Small pet urn (under 25 cubic inches). For a toy breed, many “Small” urns will have far more capacity than you strictly need, which is completely fine—and often makes placement and closure easier. The key is to shop by the urn’s listed capacity and choose one that meets or exceeds your comfort target.
- Shop Small Pet Urns (under 25 cu in)
- Shop Medium Pet Urns (25–60 cu in) (if your dog was larger than expected)
- Browse all Dog Urns
Size up if… (a simple rule that prevents a tight fit)
Size up if your dog’s weight is an estimate, your dog is a mix, your dog is big-framed or very muscular, you want room for mementos (tag, note, fur clipping), or you want the easiest closure with the inner bag. If you’re choosing between two capacities, the larger option is usually the calmer choice because it avoids a tight fit.
Sharing plan options (keepsakes and jewelry)
If more than one person wants a portion of ashes, a gentle plan is one primary urn plus keepsakes (or jewelry) so you don’t have to reopen the main urn repeatedly. For small dogs, keepsakes can also be a comforting option even if you’re not splitting evenly.
Helpful tools to confirm your choice
FAQ
What size urn do I need for a Maltese?
Most Maltese dogs weigh around 4–7 lb, so a typical minimum range is 4–7 cubic inches. For a calmer fit, many families choose about 5–9 cubic inches (adding ~20%).
What size urn do I need for a 5 lb Maltese?
Start with 5 cubic inches minimum. For comfort, aim for about 6 cubic inches. Most families shop Small pet urns.
What size urn do I need for a 7 lb Maltese?
Start with 7 cubic inches minimum. For a roomier fit, aim for about 9 cubic inches. A Small urn is still the most common fit—just choose a higher listed capacity.
Is a Small urn big enough for a Maltese?
Yes. Most Maltese dogs fit comfortably in a Small urn. The key is to match the urn’s listed capacity to your comfort target so closure doesn’t feel tight.
My Maltese was a mix or heavier than expected. What should I do?
Size for your dog’s actual weight. Many dogs in the 8–10 lb range still fit in Small if you choose a higher-capacity option; Medium can be a calm choice if you want extra breathing room.
How much extra space (buffer) should I add?
A common approach is to add about 15–20% to your minimum estimate. This helps the inner bag settle comfortably and reduces the chance of a tight fit.
Can I include a collar tag, note, or small mementos in the urn?
Often, yes—if you plan for it. If you want room for mementos, aim for your comfort target (or size up) so the fit doesn’t feel tight.
Can a keepsake urn hold my Maltese’s full ashes?
Sometimes, depending on the keepsake urn’s listed capacity and your dog’s weight. More often, keepsakes are used for sharing alongside a primary urn.
How can I double-check my sizing before ordering?
Use the Pet Urn Size Calculator, then choose an urn whose listed capacity meets or exceeds your comfort target. You can also compare with the Complete Guide to Choosing the Perfect Urn Size.
