Description: Maltese
The Maltese is a small breed of dog well-known for its long, flowing white coat and charming, playful nature. Originating from the Central Mediterranean Area, the breed has a history that dates back over two millennia and is often associated with the island of Malta. Despite their dainty appearance, Maltese dogs are sturdy and adaptable, excelling in various canine sports and activities. They are known for their affectionate demeanor and are particularly good at bonding with their human families. Their alertness and keen sense of hearing make them decent watchdogs, although they are primarily companion dogs. The Maltese’s glamorous white coat requires regular grooming, but they shed very little, making them a favored choice for families or individuals with allergies.
Maltese ratings
Properties
The Maltese, recognized by its luxurious white coat and charming, affectionate demeanor, is one of the most aristocratic breeds among small-sized dogs. Originating from the Mediterranean island nation of Malta, the breed has a recorded history that dates back over 28 centuries, making the Maltese one of the oldest European toy breeds.
The elegance of the Maltese is complemented by its beautiful, silky straight white coat, which can grow to floor length. This hallmark feature requires regular grooming to prevent matting and to maintain its pristine condition. Despite their regal appearance, Maltese are hardy and adaptable animals, capable of participating in agility and obedience competitions. This demonstrates their intelligence and trainable nature.
A Maltese typically measures about 7-9 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 4-7 pounds. Their petite size makes them ideal pets for apartment dwellers, though their spirited nature means they enjoy space to play and explore. Maltese do not have an undercoat, and they shed very little, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers. However, their grooming needs are high due to their long, luxurious coat.
The temperament of the Maltese is affectionate, playful, and gentle. They form strong bonds with their owners and seek to be involved in all family activities. This breed is known for its fearlessness and can often be seen standing up to much larger dogs without hesitation. Nevertheless, their sociable nature makes them great companions for children and other animals when properly socialized from a young age.
Maltese are known for their long lifespan, often living up to 12-15 years. They are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain genetic disorders such as heart issues and luxating patella. Regular veterinary check-ups, proper diet, and consistent exercise are crucial for maintaining their health and longevity.
Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them relatively easy to train. They respond best to positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise. Early socialization and puppy training classes are recommended to help them develop into well-adjusted adults.
Due to their small size and need for companionship, it is not advisable to leave a Maltese alone for long periods. They thrive on interaction and can develop separation anxiety if neglected. Therefore, they suit owners who can devote a significant amount of time to them. This loving breed makes an excellent companion for those who appreciate its blend of elegance and spirited character.
Appearance
The Maltese is a toy breed known for its luxurious, flowing white coat and gracefully elegant structure. This breed has a compact body encased in a mantle of long, flat silky hair. Typically, the Maltese coat is pure white, though some specimens might exhibit light tan or lemon hues on their ears. The breed is renowned for its glamorous appearance, but it’s their striking expression that often captures hearts. Their dark, round eyes encircled with dark rims, combined with a sweet, alert expression, give the Maltese a distinctive allure.
The head of a Maltese should be proportionate to their body, with a slightly rounded skull, and a modestly defined stop - the place where the muzzle meets the forehead. The ears are dropped, set low and heavily feathered, blending smoothly into the rest of the hair on the head. This breed’s nose is typically black, providing a stark contrast to their white fur, and enhancing their keen, attentive expression.
Moving to their body, Maltese dogs are slightly longer than they are tall, ensuring a balanced profile. They possess a level back and a well-sprung ribcage, attributes that contribute to their sturdy, though dainty, physique. Despite their delicate and refined appearance, Maltese are surprisingly robust and agile. Their gait is smooth and effortless, displaying good reach in the front and a powerful drive from behind. Whether moving or still, their elegance is readily apparent.
Discussing the coat further, the hallmark of this breed is its long, silky coat, which should be straight and free of any curls or waves. The length might sometimes touch the ground. Maltese should ideally have a daily grooming routine involving brushing to prevent knots and matting. In dog shows, many owners opt for a large topknot tied to keep the hair out of the dog’s eyes, not only as a fashion statement but also for practical reasons, ensuring the dog’s comfort. Regular bathing and grooming are essential to maintain the gleaming, pristine appearance of their coat.
The Maltese is a peculiar blend of sophistication and simplicity, perfectly embodying the elegance of a miniature aristocrat but with the heart and spirit to rival any big dog. Their appearance, far from being merely decorative, reflects their historical status as cherished companions of royalty and high society through centuries.
History
The Maltese is a breed of dog in the toy group originating from the Central Mediterranean Area. The breed name and origins are generally associated with the Mediterranean island nation of Malta.
However, the exact origin of the Maltese dog is unclear and there are many theories surrounding the development of the breed. Historical records date back as early as 500 BC, suggesting that ancient Greeks and Romans highly valued the breed, evidenced by the fact that aristocrats and royals kept them. Notable historical figures, including the Roman governor Publius, reputedly owned Maltese dogs, and they were often featured in paintings and writings.
During the Roman Empire, these dogs were believed to have healing powers and were used as comforters for the ill or in hospitals, which could explain why they became so popular among the elite and royal circles. The breed was refined and bred to be small and sweet-tempered, which contributed to their allure as a high-status symbol. Through the centuries, they have been known by various names including the Roman Ladies Dog, the Comforter Dog, the Spaniel Gentle, the Bichon, the Maltese Lion Dog, and the Melitaie Dog, among others.
In the Middle Ages, Maltese dogs were widespread across Europe, kept by royalty such as Mary Queen of Scots, Queen Elizabeth I, and Marie Antoinette. Their fame spread through Renaissance Europe, where they were often seen in the arms of ladies of the court, serving both as companions and status symbols. The breed was also a favorite subject of Elizabethan-era portrait painters.
The Maltese continued to grow in popularity into the 19th century. It was one of the original breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) when it was founded in 1884. In the modern era, the Maltese has been featured in various forms of media and popular culture, reinforcing its profile as a desirable pet.
Today, the Maltese is valued both as a lap dog and a companion animal, known for its intelligent, affectionate nature, and its striking white silky coat. The breed has retained its stature and allure from ancient times to the present day, combining regal elegance with friendly companionship.