The Maltese is a fearless, gentle breed of dog. They may appear arrogant and noble with their white coats, but looks can be deceiving.
Besides being a great companion, this dog excels in agility, obedience, rally, and tracking sports, as well as being a therapy dog. They love being with their people most of all, however. These pups make excellent furry family members for even novice pet parents and apartment dwellers.
Famous Maltese Dogs
The Tippy Story (2006)
Famous Owners
Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Mona Lisa, Halle Berry, Susan Sarandon, Eva Longoria, Miley Cyrus, Daisy Lowe, Madonna.
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History
A Maltese dog has a history dating back at least two millennia, making it one of the oldest toy breeds. The early cultures of Greece, Rome, and Egypt immortalized this small dog. Aristotle even mentioned them. Greeks erected tombs for their Maltese dogs, and Egyptian artifacts depicting Maltese-like dogs indicate they were treasured.
A Maltese was believed to cure disease by the Egyptians and many Europeans centuries later. “The Comforter” was one of its names even before the Christian Era.
Despite his historical prominence, it is unclear where the Maltese dog originated. Many believe the breed originated on the Isle of Malta in the Mediterranean Sea from Spitz- or Spaniel-type dogs. Many people think he was developed in Italy, while others believe he was originally from Asia and helped develop many smaller Asian dogs.
Regardless of where he came from, the Maltese thrived. He found a secure place in the hearts and arms of French aristocrats by the 15th century. It was during Henry VIII’s reign that Maltese reached the British Isles. Maltese dogs became a favourite pet of noble and royal ladies by the end of the 16th century. Mary Queen of Scots, Queen Elizabeth I, and Queen Victoria loved the little dog. Several painters included these small dogs in their portraits of beautiful women, including Goya and Sir Joshua Reynolds.
Despite surviving the fall of Rome and the Dark Ages, the Maltese were nearly destroyed in the 18 and 19 hundreds when they were bred to be squirrel-sized. Breeders mixed poodles, miniature spaniels, and East Asian miniature dogs to save the breed. The Maltese became so varied that several new species were created. Many believe Maltese are the direct ancestors of Bichon Frise, Bolognese and Havanese.
English breeders developed the Maltese as we know them today. Today, many Maltese in the U.S. are descended from English imports. In the late 1800s, Maltese was first seen in the U.S. Westminster Kennel Club shows first featured in the 1870s.
Before the 1950s, the number of Maltese dogs registered with the AKC grew very slowly. The breed has become quite popular since then. Maltese often win the Toy Group at dog shows, making them one of the most popular breeds. In addition, they have an excellent record in the “Best in Show” competition.
Traits
In his long history, the Maltese have been known variously as the “Melitae Dog,” “The Comforter,” the “Roman Ladies Dog,” “Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta,” “Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta,” the “Spaniel Gentle,” the “Maltese Lion Dog,” the “Bichon,” and the “Maltese Terrier.” He is now known simply as the Maltese.
Silky white hair covers the body of this elegant toy dog breed. Its thick, straight coat reaches the ground. Historically, Maltese came in various colours, but today they are always white. Under his cloud of white hair, a well-built Maltese appears to float. Because of their lack of an undercoat, the Maltese shed little, and many consider him hypoallergenic. Especially if they are damp, Maltese are prone to chills. Long-haired Maltese dogs can get sunburned on their backs where their hair is parted.
There is more to the Maltese than just his coat. The picture is complete with short, straight legs, dark, alert eyes, a short, rounded skull, and a graceful tail. Dedicated to his family, he is a sweet, intelligent dog. Being one of the smallest toy breeds, he is well suited to apartments and condos. A Maltese makes an effective watchdog no matter where he lives.
Despite their aristocratic appearance, Maltese dogs can be very energetic. When rewarded for their efforts, they learn quickly. Due to their long history as companion dogs, Maltese depend on humans and suffer from separation anxiety. When left by themselves for long periods, they can bark and become destructive.
Maltese are sometimes intolerant of small children and other dogs, especially if their owners have overly pampered them. If animals or people are perceived as threats to their relationship with their beloved human family, they can be very protective, barking and even biting.
Since Maltese are so small and can easily be injured, they are not a good choice for families with small children. In addition to proper socialization and basic obedience training, they must also be taught their place in your home.
Health
This breed is typically healthy, but like all breeds, they may experience specific health conditions. Not every dog of this breed will get these diseases, but it’s essential to be aware of them. Some common health problems include:
- Patellar Luxation
- Portosystemic Shunt
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- Hypoglycemia
- White Dog Shaker Syndrome
- Collapsed trachea
- Inverted Or Reverse Sneezing
Regardless of how healthy your dog is, a pet’s health insurance plan can help you stay prepared for any of your dog’s medical needs.