Maltese

Get to Know Malteses

• Ancient Lineage: The Maltese is one of the oldest dog breeds, with a history that dates back over 2,000 years. They were highly prized by the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians for their beauty and companionship.
• Luxurious Coat: Maltese dogs are known for their long, flowing white coat, which gives them a regal appearance. Despite their luxurious coat, they are relatively low-shedding but require regular grooming to maintain their appearance.
• Gentle and Playful: Maltese are gentle and playful dogs that make excellent companions for people of all ages. They are known for their affectionate nature and often form strong bonds with their owners.
• Compact and Portable: Maltese are small dogs, typically weighing between 4 to 7 pounds, making them highly portable. Their small size and adaptable nature make them ideal for apartment living.
• Historically Favored by Aristocracy: Maltese dogs were favored by European royalty and aristocracy for centuries. They were often seen as symbols of wealth and luxury, and they frequently appeared in artworks and literature.

Breed History

The Maltese is an ancient toy breed that has been beloved for centuries. Originating in the Mediterranean, particularly on the island of Malta, the Maltese is thought to have descended from dogs brought to the island by Phoenician traders over 2,500 years ago. The breed was likely developed from smaller versions of the Bichon family, resulting in its elegant, white, and silky coat. Maltese were initially bred as companions for nobility, and their affectionate nature and charm made them favorites of royal courts throughout history. Today, the Maltese continues to be a popular companion dog, admired for its graceful appearance and lively personality.

Personality and Behaviour

• Affectionate and Loyal: The Maltese is a loving and loyal companion who forms strong bonds with their owners. They thrive on human interaction and enjoy being the center of attention. Maltese dogs are known for their devotion and can be quite protective of their family, making them excellent watchdogs despite their size.
• Intelligent and Alert: Maltese dogs are intelligent and quick learners. They enjoy mental stimulation and can excel in obedience training, tricks, and agility. Their alert nature makes them excellent watchdogs, and they are always on the lookout for new experiences and visitors.
• Spirited and Playful: Despite their small size, Maltese dogs have a spirited and playful personality. They love to entertain their families with playful antics and enjoy interactive games. Their playful nature makes them great companions for active seniors or singles who can provide plenty of attention and playtime.

Care

• Exercise: Maltese dogs have moderate exercise needs. They enjoy short walks and playtime indoors or in a secure yard. Their small size makes them adaptable to apartment living, but they still require daily physical activity to stay fit and prevent boredom. They enjoy interactive toys and short training sessions to keep their minds engaged.
• Grooming: The Maltese has a long, flowing, and silky coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Daily brushing is recommended to keep their coat free of knots and maintain a healthy shine. Maltese are prone to tear staining, so regular cleaning around the eyes and a diet free of artificial coloring can help manage this issue. Routine grooming also includes regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care.
• Training and Socialization: Training a Maltese requires patience and positive reinforcement methods. They can be independent and a bit stubborn, so gentle, consistent training is essential. Early socialization is important to help them develop good manners and confidence around new people, animals, and environments. Maltese dogs should be exposed to a variety of experiences to prevent fearfulness or aggression later in life.