The Maltese is a gentle-mannered and affectionate dog that is covered in with a mantle of long and silky white hair from head to toe. These dogs are lively, playful and courageous despite their small size. They are fast learners and intelligent dogs and their cleanliness and refinements makes them excellent choices as companion dogs.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: Italy
Used for: Companion
Average Life Span: 15-18 years
Color: White
Coat: Long and silky
Average Height: 8-10 inches
Average Weight: 6-9 pounds
Group: Gun dog, AKC toy
History and Domestication
The Maltese were first recognized and received their name from Malta and were once known as “Ye ancient doggie of Malta”. For over 20 centuries, this breed has remained an aristocrat of the canine world and was royalty across the globe. Even back in the 1500s, their cost was $2,000. While other companion dogs of today have been bred down in size, the Maltese have remained the same.
Standard Physical Characteristics
The Maltese is a hardy and small dog with silky white hair. The body is fine-boned and compact but sturdy. The skull is slightly round with a moderate stop and a medium-length muzzle. The ears are pendant and low-set, close to the head and are heavily feathered. The large round eyes are black and moderately set-apart. The long silky coat can sometimes be cut by owners for easy care.
Care, Grooming and Health
The soft coat of the Maltese requires daily combing and brushing. To avoid staining, eyes and beard must be cleaned after meals. Bathe and dry shampoo regularly but make sure you dry and warm them properly later. Hair growing inside the ear canal needs pulling. The Maltese sheds very little or no hair at all and is suitable for allergy sufferers.
Maltese need to be walked daily while play will take care of their exercise needs. However play does not satisfy their primal instinct to walk and if they do not get walked daily they are likely to display behavioral problems. They will also love to romp in a safe and enclosed area like a large fenced-in yard. The Maltese are prone to slipped stifle, respiratory problems, hair parting and eye infections. They need to be kept out of damp areas and hot weather.
Living Conditions
The Maltese makes a good apartment dog and as it is active indoors a yard will not be necessary.
Temperament
The Maltese are lively, spirited and playful little dogs. They are loving, gentle, trusting and devoted to their masters. Their high intelligence enables them to learn tricks rather quickly. They are bold and quick to raise alarm in case of any suspicion. The graceful and loving canine makes a perfect companion dog. They also get along well with other animals and love playing outdoors. Some love jumping in puddles. Do not allow them to develop a small dog syndrome or else they may display varying degree of negative behavior like guarding, snapping and biting.
