Maltese Breed Characteristics
Height
20 to 25 cm at the shoulder
Weight
Up to 7 pounds
Life Expectancy
12 to 15 years
Coat Colours
White
Maltese
Easygoing, playful and lively
About the Maltese
The Maltese has been living in the lap of luxury for well over two millennia. These pampered little white pooches are part of the history of several ancient cultures. They are experts in companionship and excel at lounging around.
Most Maltese dogs are also playful yet gentle, easily getting along with children and other dogs. Though they’re prone to lying on the sofa instead of yearning for adventure, active specimens of the Maltese will jump headlong into adventure so long as they’re accompanied by their owner.
Though they’re officially a companion dog and not intended for work, the Maltese excels as a therapy dog who brings comfort and joy to those in hospitals, retirement homes and nursing homes.
Here are some of the qualities you can expect from the Maltese, rated from one to five stars. However, all dogs are individuals, and your dog may not display exactly the same characteristics.
Family Life
5/5
Friendly with Kids
5/5
Friendly with Dogs
4/5
Ease of Grooming
2/5
Exercise Needs
2/5
Prey Drive
4/5
Tendency to Bark or Howl
4/5
Good for Novice Owners
5/5
Apartment Living
5/5
Maltese Breed History
Evidence shows that the Maltese breed was abundant on the Island of Malta. While little white lap dogs have been around for thousands of years, the Maltese claims to be descended from one of the most ancient dog breeds in existence.
Many Greek and Roman philosophers, as well as other ancient poets and historians have mentioned a little white dog that was revered and celebrated. These dogs would accompany emperors and noblewomen everywhere they went.
By the 15th century, the breed had an ironclad reputation as a comforting, loyal companion animal. The French nobility had an especially deep love for the breed and spread them throughout Europe. Even Queen Elizabeth I and Queen Victoria were fans of the Maltese.
The Maltese was almost lost in the 17th and 18th centuries due to poor breeding practices. The efforts to save the breed are said to have resulted in the creation of the Bichon Frise, Havanese and Bolognese dog breeds.
Caring For a Maltese
- Temperament: They are neither shy nor timid, despite being companion dogs. They get along well with both dogs and cats, and are excellent playmates with children. However, play between young children and puppies should be supervised, as the puppies can be fragile.
- Grooming: The coat of a Maltese is always pure white. Maintaining their coat is time-consuming as they will need frequent brushing and grooming.
- Exercise: They are relatively high-energy for their size. Expect to take your dog for gentle walks and exercise sessions several times a day, for a total of 30 minutes of activity.
- Nutrition: Adult Maltese will need around ¼ to ½ cup of dry dog food per day. A Maltese puppy will need around half that amount. Due to their size, it’s best to split up their food into multiple meals throughout the day.
- Training: The Maltese loves to make their owner happy, so training based on positive reinforcement is the most effective.
How to Choose a Responsible Maltese Dog Breeder
Your choice of breeder has a large effect on your dog’s quality of life. It’s best to choose a responsible Maltese breeder to ensure that your dog will be healthy and free from genetic issues. The best Maltese dog breeders will know how to produce dogs that have an even temperament and calm disposition.
A breeder should know the genetic profile of their dogs and conduct health tests to ensure that their breeding animals do not have any inheritable diseases or conditions that will affect your puppy. Try to visit your breeder so you can meet the dam and stud, as their temperament will reflect in your Maltese puppy.
Maltese FAQ
Can a Maltese be left alone throughout the day?
No. They are sensitive, gentle dogs who need to be with their family throughout the day.
Is the Maltese hypoallergenic?
Yes, they are considered to be hypoallergenic. They don’t have an undercoat and do not shed a great deal.
Dog Breeds Similar to the Maltese
The information is for general use only. For any specific advice or queries, please consult with your veterinarian.
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