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   Maltese found in House & Home  :  Pets  :  Dogs  :  Specific Dog Breeds A   A   A
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Maltese
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This loving breed has much more to offer than just a fancy white coat.
 
Maltese are playful, lively companion dogs. This guide shows you how to be the best possible friend to your new dog, including:
  • The best places to find and adopt a Maltese
  • The gear and care you need to make sure your Maltese settles in at home
  • Feeding, grooming, and training tips to keep him healthy and well-behaved
 
 
 
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Breed Profile: Maltese

Many of the details regarding the history of the Maltese are puzzling. Some historians place the origin of the breed in Malta, whereas other theories cite Sicily, Egypt, or southern Europe. The original uses of a Maltese are equally mysterious. Some claim that the breed was always a lap dog, whereas others claim that the ancient Maltese was a mouser. The Maltese was even believed to have had healing powers, and patients were instructed simply to place a Maltese on their chest to receive the benefits.

In the late 15th century, the breed was introduced to the homes of the English aristocracy; by the 19th century, it was firmly established in Britain as a pet dog. The American Kennel Club first recognized the breed in 1888. Throughout his long history, the Maltese has been favored by the wealthy and powerful, from Queen Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots to Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley. Today, the Maltese is one of the most popular breeds in the United States.

Appearance

The following description is of an “ideal” Maltese. Not all Maltese will fit the description exactly, but that’s not an issue unless you want one who can participate in dog shows.
  • Height: Height ranges from 8–10" (20–25 cm) for males and 8–9" (20–23 cm) for females.
  • Weight: Weight ranges from 4–6 pounds (2–2.5 kg).
  • Coat: The Maltese’s long, flowing, single coat is pure white, occasionally with slight tan or lemon markings on the ears. It has a silky texture and drapes smoothly over the body. The hair is straight and can grow long enough to reach the ground.

Temperament and Personality

The Maltese is first and foremost a companion, given his long history as a lap dog. He is naturally playful, lively, intensely affectionate, and loyal. Both gentle and fearless, he also makes for a courageous watchdog.

Traits

Here are some traits to consider when determining how well a Maltese is going to fit in with you and your family.

Companionability

Though gentle and affectionate with his family, a Maltese is sometimes wary of strangers. He is one of the most loyal of the toy breeds and requires a great deal of human companionship. He fits well in households with children, as long as parents supervise his interactions with younger children. The Maltese often will attempt to protect his family’s children from perceived dangers.

Environment

The Maltese is primarily an indoor dog—when left alone outside, he likely will either get dirty, get in trouble, or even go missing. He should not be left outside unattended for any significant period—even as short as five minutes. The Maltese is best suited for living in condominiums or apartments in urban environments. He is very dependent upon your company and, if left alone for long hours every day, may develop separation anxiety, which can result in barking, house soiling, and destructive behavior.

Exercise Requirements

Maltese don’t require a great deal of exercise and can be healthy and happy with just a 15-minute walk or two a day. Many seem to get all the exercise they need just from running around the house, but an occasional change of scenery can keep them from becoming bored and possibly destructive.

Trainability

The Maltese is an intelligent breed. With diligence and positive reinforcement, your Maltese will learn commands and tricks very quickly. The Maltese’s intelligence makes him an excellent show dog, and he has been known to perform well in obedience and performance events.
 
 
Text & Photos Copyright © 2007 TFH Publications, Inc.  Acknowledgments & Disclaimer
 
 

 
 
 
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