Dog Breeds - Maltese

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The degree of fondness a particular breed may exhibit towards family members or acquaintances it is familiar with can vary significantly. Certain breeds may display a reserved demeanor towards all but their primary caregiver, demonstrating a discernible preference for a singular attachment. Conversely other breeds are known for their indiscriminate sociability approaching all familiar individuals with equal enthusiasm as though they were their closest companions
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The inherent patience and tolerance of a dog breed towards the antics of young ones coupled with its suitability for family life are important traits to consider. Although dogs should be under careful watch when in the presence of young or inexperienced children, certain breeds demonstrate a more family-oriented demeanor.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
Each dog breed has a different level of natural friendliness towards its canine peers necessitating supervision during interactions. Even so, some breeds have an inherent tendency to get on well with other dogs in both private and public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
When you're considering the amount of shedding from different breeds, it's important to be aware of their potential to shed fur and hair around your home. Breeds known for their heavy shedding will require more regular grooming sessions with a brush to manage the loose fur. Additionally, these breeds may be more of a concern for individuals with specific allergies, as they can release more allergens into the environment. To keep your living spaces clean, you might find yourself vacuuming and using lint rollers with greater frequency to pick up after these furry friends.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
Assess how often a breed needs bathing, combing, hair trimming or other forms of grooming upkeep. When determining the grooming effort involved take into account your time availability, patience and grooming budget. And don't overlook the fact all dog breeds require ongoing nail care.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency for a breed to drool extensively is an important consideration to bear in mind. If you're particularly meticulous about cleanliness, breeds capable of leaving copious amounts of drool on your arm or conspicuous wet patches on your clothing might not align well with your preferences.
COAT TYPE +
Silky
COAT LENGTH +
Long

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The degree to which a breed is inclined to greet newcomers warmly can vary significantly. Certain breeds may naturally adopt a more guarded or hesitant stance in the presence of unfamiliar people, regardless of the setting. On the flip side, there are breeds that are consistently overjoyed at the opportunity to make the acquaintance of a new person, any time, any place.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The eagerness of a breed to engage in playtime well beyond their puppy years is something to consider. There are those breeds that maintain a youthful zeal delighting in games like tug-of-war or fetch well into their mature stages. Meanwhile, other breeds tend to exhibit a more laid-back disposition, often preferring to simply lounge on the couch alongside you for the majority of the day.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
The propensity of a breed to signal the presence of strangers should be taken into account. Such breeds are more alert and often respond to perceived threats from the mail delivery person to a squirrel scampering near the window. Once these dogs ascertain that a newcomer is welcomed by their family within the home, they're typically quick to extend their warmth to the stranger as well.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to change is worth noting. This encompasses how they cope with alterations in their living environment, fluctuations in noise levels, shifts in weather patterns, changes in daily routines and other everyday dynamics.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The trainability of a breed and its openness to learning new skills is an essential aspect to consider. Certain breeds are eager to please and aim to win their owner's approval, which can make training a smoother process. Conversely, other breeds have a more independent streak tending to follow their own whims on their own timetable and setting.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The level of physical activity and mental engagement a breed requires is quite diverse. High-energy breeds brim with animation and stand at the ready for whatever escapade comes next, often spending their days bustling with running, leaping and playful antics. In contrast, low-energy breeds are akin to your quintessential couch potatoes content to lounge about and drift into leisurely naps.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency and manner in which a breed chooses to vocalize be it through barks, howls or other noises—varies considerably. Some breeds seem eager to sound off an alert for every pedestrian or avian visitor by the window, while others reserve their barking for specific scenarios. Even breeds known for their lack of barking may still communicate audibly employing a range of different sounds to express themselves.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The degree of mental exercise a breed requires to maintain its well-being and contentment is an important factor. Dogs bred for specific roles may need tasks that demand critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, focus among other cognitive skills. Without sufficient opportunities to challenge their intellect, they are apt to devise their own activities to occupy themselves and these self-assigned tasks might not align with your own preferences for household projects.

COLORS +
.
PATTERNS +
.

CARING WITH FAMILY Independent Lovey-Dovey
The degree of fondness a particular breed may exhibit towards family members or acquaintances it is familiar with can vary significantly. Certain breeds may display a reserved demeanor towards all but their primary caregiver, demonstrating a discernible preference for a singular attachment. Conversely other breeds are known for their indiscriminate sociability approaching all familiar individuals with equal enthusiasm as though they were their closest companions
LOVE WITH CHILDREN Unwise Good With Children
The inherent patience and tolerance of a dog breed towards the antics of young ones coupled with its suitability for family life are important traits to consider. Although dogs should be under careful watch when in the presence of young or inexperienced children, certain breeds demonstrate a more family-oriented demeanor.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS Unwise Good With Other Dogs
Each dog breed has a different level of natural friendliness towards its canine peers necessitating supervision during interactions. Even so, some breeds have an inherent tendency to get on well with other dogs in both private and public settings.
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere
When you're considering the amount of shedding from different breeds, it's important to be aware of their potential to shed fur and hair around your home. Breeds known for their heavy shedding will require more regular grooming sessions with a brush to manage the loose fur. Additionally, these breeds may be more of a concern for individuals with specific allergies, as they can release more allergens into the environment. To keep your living spaces clean, you might find yourself vacuuming and using lint rollers with greater frequency to pick up after these furry friends.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily
Assess how often a breed needs bathing, combing, hair trimming or other forms of grooming upkeep. When determining the grooming effort involved take into account your time availability, patience and grooming budget. And don't overlook the fact all dog breeds require ongoing nail care.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel
The tendency for a breed to drool extensively is an important consideration to bear in mind. If you're particularly meticulous about cleanliness, breeds capable of leaving copious amounts of drool on your arm or conspicuous wet patches on your clothing might not align well with your preferences.
COAT STYLES GUIDE
Silky
COAT SPECTRUM
Long
FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend
The degree to which a breed is inclined to greet newcomers warmly can vary significantly. Certain breeds may naturally adopt a more guarded or hesitant stance in the presence of unfamiliar people, regardless of the setting. On the flip side, there are breeds that are consistently overjoyed at the opportunity to make the acquaintance of a new person, any time, any place.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop
The eagerness of a breed to engage in playtime well beyond their puppy years is something to consider. There are those breeds that maintain a youthful zeal delighting in games like tug-of-war or fetch well into their mature stages. Meanwhile, other breeds tend to exhibit a more laid-back disposition, often preferring to simply lounge on the couch alongside you for the majority of the day.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant
The propensity of a breed to signal the presence of strangers should be taken into account. Such breeds are more alert and often respond to perceived threats from the mail delivery person to a squirrel scampering near the window. Once these dogs ascertain that a newcomer is welcomed by their family within the home, they're typically quick to extend their warmth to the stranger as well.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable
The adaptability of a breed to change is worth noting. This encompasses how they cope with alterations in their living environment, fluctuations in noise levels, shifts in weather patterns, changes in daily routines and other everyday dynamics.
OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please
The trainability of a breed and its openness to learning new skills is an essential aspect to consider. Certain breeds are eager to please and aim to win their owner's approval, which can make training a smoother process. Conversely, other breeds have a more independent streak tending to follow their own whims on their own timetable and setting.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy
The level of physical activity and mental engagement a breed requires is quite diverse. High-energy breeds brim with animation and stand at the ready for whatever escapade comes next, often spending their days bustling with running, leaping and playful antics. In contrast, low-energy breeds are akin to your quintessential couch potatoes content to lounge about and drift into leisurely naps.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal
Medium
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Happy to Lounge Needs a Job or Activity
The degree of mental exercise a breed requires to maintain its well-being and contentment is an important factor. Dogs bred for specific roles may need tasks that demand critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, focus among other cognitive skills. Without sufficient opportunities to challenge their intellect, they are apt to devise their own activities to occupy themselves and these self-assigned tasks might not align with your own preferences for household projects.
COLORS	.
PATTERNS	.

About The Breed

The charming Maltese, known historically as 'Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta,' has basked in the glow of opulence since times when the holy scriptures were still being authored. Renowned for their eye-catching cascading coats, these enchanting dogs are full of playfulness, grace and adapt well as delightful tiny companions.

These affectionate little dogs tip the scales at under seven pounds and showcase a lengthy, flowing, silky coat. Hidden beneath their lustrous white fur is a well-proportioned frame that moves with grace and fluidity epitomizing a natural balance and refined elegance. One cannot help but be captivated by the endearing face of the Maltese with its expressive, dark eyes and sweet, black button-like nose capable of melting even the most indifferent heart.

Despite their noble demeanour, Maltese dogs are robust and versatile animals. They are vigilant guardians who exhibit a fearless charm typical of their toy-dog lineage and they possess an energetic spirit that shines on the agility course. These dogs are known for their minimal shedding, impressive longevity and an open-hearted nature that endears them to people of all walks of life. While they can exhibit a strong-willed streak, they are receptive to positive reinforcement training techniques.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A MALTESE

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Maltese: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	The Maltese breed is known for its robust health and longevity, often gracing their owners' lives well into the double-digit years. Ethical breeders make it a priority to check their breeding stock for certain health issues, such as sliding kneecaps (luxating patella) and heart problems like patent ductus arteriosus or PDA. It's advisable for Maltese puppies to undergo bile-acid testing as a precaution against inborn liver conditions including liver shunt and microvascular dysplasia (MVD). Although cases of encephalitis also known as GME have been observed in the breed, currently no screening test exists. The American Maltese Association is actively collaborating with scientific researchers to discover solutions and potentially develop a genetic test soon. Like all small breeds, dental care is crucial for Maltese. Daily brushing with canine-specific toothpaste, alongside regular dental check-ups and cleanings by a veterinarian is essential to maintain their oral health. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Patella Evaluation Serum Bile Acids Cardiac Exam

Grooming

	The illustrious pure white mane of a Maltese is truly striking and majestic. This gorgeous fur demands daily gentle grooming brushing thoroughly to the skin to avert any snarls and matting. Regular bathing and conditioning of their coat are also essential to maintain its splendid appearance. Their fast-growing claws require frequent trims to keep them at a healthy length. Weekly ear checks are advised to clear away any excess hair, wax or accumulated debris for optimal ear health. Since dental issues can become more prevalent as the Maltese ages, it is highly recommended to brush their teeth regularly, ideally aligning with their coat grooming routine. Additionally should you notice excessive tear stains around their eyes, it's prudent to consult a veterinarian to explore potential underlying causes.

Exercise

	Maltese brim with vitality, and while they are energetic, they need only moderate physical activity to stay in good health and spirits. Casual daily strolls with their favorite human or an energetic play session in a secure backyard or even inside the house is generally enough to satisfy their exercise requirements and keep them in tip-top shape.

Training

	Maltese possess a sharp intellect and, throughout their long history as human companions, have mastered the art of charming their way into getting their desires met by their human counterparts. Consistency is key when training them to ensure they understand and adhere to expected behaviors. These dogs are not only sociable but also have a natural aptitude for athleticism, making them delightful participants in dog sports like obedience or agility competitions. While they may occasionally display a stubborn streak, they are well known for their positive response to training that involves encouragement and rewards.

Nutrition

	The Maltese will thrive on a diet of high-quality dog food, whether it's commercially available or prepared at home under the guidance and approval of a vet. It's important to tailor the diet to the specific life stages of the dog, such as puppyhood, adulthood or the senior years. Keeping an eye on your Maltese's calorie intake is important as they can have a tendency to gain excess weight. While treats are useful for training dispensing them excessively can lead to obesity. It's also useful to understand which human foods are safe for dogs and which should be avoided. If you have any doubts about your dog's dietary needs or if their weight seems to be a concern, consult your veterinarian. Always ensure that your dog has access to clean fresh water at all times.

Historiography

A mere 60 miles off the coast of Sicily, Malta stands proudly in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. In antiquity, this island served as a pivotal hub welcoming a tapestry of pilgrims, seafarers and affluent traders from three distinct continents. Malta boasted a bustling harbor becoming a cradle of commerce and culture from as early as 3500 B.C. Over a span of 2,000 years starting from 1500 B.C., the island found itself at the mercy of various seaborne rulers Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Arabs and Normans, all drawn by its strategic importance as a trading nexus for luxuries like spices, silks and jewels, alongside a peculiar tiny white lapdog that was all the rage among high society women globally. Historians surmise that it was the seafaring Phoenicians who initially brought the Maltese dog to Malta during their Mediterranean dominance pre-dating Ancient Greece.

The Greeks of the fourth and fifth centuries B.C. were captivated by the Maltese dog's symmetrical grace leaving behind a rich heritage of dog-themed artifacts: Portraits of the so-called 'Melitaie Dog' adorn ceramics from their Golden Age and even Aristotle praised its well-balanced form despite its petite size.

For the Roman elite, the Maltese dog ascended to be more than a mere pet, it was an emblem of prestige and a chic accessory. A Roman woman wasn't considered fashionably attired without a 'Roman Ladies' Dog' nestled in her sleeve or against her chest. The breed even enchanted the stoic Emperor Claudius and wove itself into the fabric of Roman lore, where it often symbolized unshakable fidelity. A traditional narrative even describes Saint Paul after his miraculous survival from a shipwreck on Malta as detailed in the Acts of the Apostles being gifted a Maltese by the grateful Publius, the island's Roman leader in appreciation for healing his father.

Following the Roman Empire's collapse, it fell to the artful breeding programs of the Chinese to save the Maltese during the turbid times of Europe's Dark Ages. Through selective breeding with their indigenous toy breeds, they refined the Maltese and reintroduced it to the European scene. Its entrancing appeal and noticeable allure meant that the Maltese was predestined to be a staple in canine exhibitions. Notably at the inaugural Westminster show in New York City, 1877, this breed graced the platform as the Maltese Lion Dog.