AKC Toy Group
History
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The Maltese is a very old breed, mentioned in ancient Greek writings and portrayed in ancient Egyptian statuary. The breed was probably named for the Mediterranean island of Malta. It is thought that these lively little dogs were first brought to England by Crusaders returning home from the Mediterranean. The breed became particularly popular with women, who often carried them in their sleeves and even to their beds. The dog was not only popular with women, though. Publius, the Roman governor of Malta, prized his Maltese, Issa, enough to commission a portrait and even have poetry written about her. Today, the glamorous Maltese is an adored pet and sought-after show dog.
Description
A hardy little companion dog with a luxurious, silky white coat hanging straight to the ground on each side of a center part line. The coat is single, with no undercoat, and should not be wavy, curly, or kinky. The long pendant ears and tail are thickly covered with hair, and the tail drapes over the back. The round eyes are dark with dark rims, and the nose is black. The muzzle tapers slightly. The body is slightly longer than tall, with a level topline. The Maltese is fine-boned, but sturdy. A properly built Maltese seems to float along the ground under his cloud of white hair.
Key Facts
- Height: Averages 8 in.
- Size: Very small
- Weight: Up to 7 lbs.
- Availability: Widely available
- Talents: Watchdog, competitive obedience, and performing tricks
Notes
Does well with other animals.
Personality
Spirited, lively, and playful. Gentle, loving, and trusting. Highly intelligent; good at learning tricks if he feels sufficiently rewarded. Bold. Quick to sound the alarm in case of suspicious noises. Loves to play outdoors, but has a penchant for jumping in puddles. A bath must follow!
Behavior
- Children: Best with older, considerate children
- Friendliness: Reserved with strangers
- Trainability: Easy to train
- Independence: Needs people a lot
- Dominance: Very low
- Other Pets: Generally good with other pets
- Combativeness: Friendly with other dogs
- Noise: Likes to bark
- Indoors: Very active indoors
- Owner: Good for novice owners
Care
- Grooming: Daily grooming is best.
- Trimming and Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed
- Coat: Long coat
- Shedding: Very light
- Exercise: Very little exercise needed
- Jogging: A poor jogging companion
- Apartments: Good for apartment living
- Outdoor Space: Does OK without a yard
- Climate: Does well in most climates
- Longevity: Long (15 or more years)
Useful Links
AKC® Maltese Breed Standard
http://cdn.akc.org/Maltese.pdf
Maltese Breed Club
Search for a Breeder
akc.org/classified/search/landing_breed.cfm
Rescue Organizations
akc.org/dog-breeds/rescue-network/contacts/