Maltese

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• Breed Origin: Malta - The Maltese Dog has a pronounced yet unconfirmed history and has played an important companion role throughout the world. Maltese are fondly described as the ‘lady’s jewel’, the Maltese was the preferred pet of noble ladies of ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome who used to carry them around in their sleeves! As the name Maltese suggests, this breed has also been linked with the Mediterranean island of Malta, where it was a much prized companion pet. In the early 19th century the breed was established in its modern form and was shown at some of the earliest dog shows including the 1877 Westminster Show in North America.

• Coat Colors: White

• Description: The Maltese is immediately recognizable by its magnificent, long, silky white coat, shiny black nose and proud head carriage. Black eye rims surround the dark brown luminous eyes. This dainty dog grows no higher than 25cm at the shoulder and should weigh around 2-3 kg. In full coat the hair should hang to floor length and the hair over the eyes is tied up into a small topknot. Slight lemon markings in the coat can also occur and are not considered a flaw.
  

• Exercise Requirements: Whilst Maltese don’t need a lot of space and make perfect apartment companions, don’t be fooled this little one still needs regular exercise as the Maltese is prone to weight gain and obesity. Maltese enjoy a daily walk and outing.

• Grooming: When it comes to grooming, the Maltese is of the high maintenance type. Daily brushing and regular bathing is an essential part of their routine care. If daily brushing is not possible, then regular clipping will be required to prevent knots and matting. This will make coat maintenance more manageable. Regular ear and eye checks are a necessity. Maltese need their ears routinely checked for any sign of infection or debris and wiping around the eyes will help prevent the staining so often seen on their beautiful white faces of the Maltese.

• Hereditary Disorders: Haemolytic Anaemia, Von Willebrand’s disease, Hypoglycemia, Hypothyroidism, Lymphocytic thyroiditis, Thyroiditis, Hepatic Encephalopathy, Portosystemic., Autoimmune thrombocytopoenia, Granulomatous sebaceous adenitis, Sebaceous adenitis, Hip Dysplasia, Patellar Luxation, Blindness, Deafness, Distichiasis, Epiphora, Glaucoma, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) (X-linked), Retinal dysplasia, White dog shaker syndrome, Cryptorchidism. More Info: Hereditary Disorders Affecting Maltese

• Height: 7 - 12 inches

• Hypoallergenic: Yes

• Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years

• Living Area Requirements: The Maltese is well suited to apartment life or city dwellers. They are a very active indoor dog and will do fine without a backyard.

• Temperament: Active, Playful, Affectionate, Gentle, Intelligent, Lively, Docile.
  • The Maltese, stands elegant with a prestigious cloak of long white silky hair and a shiny, black velvety nose. The Maltese is usually associated with thoughts of plush furnishings and luxurious surroundings, which is in fact, contradictory to the truth. The Maltese in truth is fearless and filled with gutsy determination. Maltese are confident around other dogs without being overconfident, their fearlessness tends to make them self-assured, rather than defensive. They generally have a sweet, loving yet, mischievous temperament, and are very much the nonconformist.
  • The fact that for so many centuries, the Maltese was the luxurious, pampered household pet of the wealthy, may to some extent explain for their own astuteness, purity and fussiness. When it comes to family time, they are very affectionate, dedicated family members, who will love nothing more than to follow you from room to room throughout the day. In saying this, the Maltese often do not warm to quickly to strangers and, despite being small in stature the Maltese make an impressive little watchdog.
  • Maltese represent the ultimate in companion dogs. They are usually sweet tempered, although at times can become snappy and aggressive, but always loyal to their owners. Maltese owners will find their little companion is a shadow by their side, whether working outdoors or sleeping in a bed. Maltese are bright and assertive, but on the downside the Maltese does not appreciate rough handling at all and can often become snappy with young children. Responsible breeders have however recognised this as a problem and have therefore taken steps to bring fourth a more desirable temperament.

   

• Weight: weight: 5 to 12 lb (2.3 to 5.4 kg)

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