Maltese: a charming, small, sociable dog with a beautiful white coat

Origin: Malta

Lifespan: 12-15 years

Activity level: moderate

Grooming: require daily brushing and professional groomer

History

The Maltese is one of the oldest dog breeds, dating back thousands of years. Although its name suggests a Maltese origin, its exact place of origin is a matter of debate. It is believed that the breed may have originated in the Mediterranean. Maltese dogs were popular in ancient Rome, Greece and Egypt. They were valued for their charm and often depicted in paintings and mentioned in literature. The aristocracy and royal families treated them as companion dogs. In the Middle Ages, Maltese dogs were highly valued in Europe, especially in royal courts. During the Renaissance, they were the favorites of the European aristocracy, which contributed to their further popularity. In the 19th century, Maltese dogs began to appear at dog shows. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed in 1888, and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) also recognizes the Maltese as a dog breed.

Personality

The Maltese is a charming, intelligent and friendly dog ​​that can be a wonderful companion for anyone. He requires regular care and attention, but in return offers a lot of love and affection. Due to health predispositions, owners should regularly consult a veterinarian and provide appropriate health care.

Maltese are small dogs, 20-25 cm tall and weighing 3-4 kg. The coat is long, straight and silky. The color of the coat is white. Compact, delicate, but well-built. They have a straight back and well-developed muscles. The head is proportional to the rest of the body, with a short muzzle. The eyes are large, dark and expressive, with an intelligent and friendly expression. The ears are hanging and covered with long hair.

Maltese dogs are very sociable, friendly and affectionate. They are loyal to their owners and get along well with children. They are intelligent and easy to train. They are eager to learn new commands and tricks. They have moderate energy levels. They like to play and go for walks, but do not need intense exercise. They are cooperative and easy to train, but can be a bit stubborn. They require consistent and positive training. They are sociable and get along well with other animals and people. Early socialization is important to avoid fearfulness.

Health

Health problems to which the breed is prone to: eye problems (dry eye syndrome, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)), orthopedic problems (patella luxation, hip dysplasia), dental problems (tendency to form tartar, gum diseases), skin problems (allergies, infections, especially in humid climates), ear problems (ear infections due to hanging ears and long hair that can retain moisture).

Maltese require regular grooming of their coat, including daily brushing to prevent tangling and matting. Regular bathing and hair trimming are also recommended. Their ears, eyes and teeth should be checked regularly and their oral hygiene maintained.