Maltese Dog Breed

Common Name: This beautiful dog breed is known by the name Maltese

Country of Origin: The Maltese dog originated in Malta

History: The Maltese dog is one of many bichon breeds found around the Mediterranean. Some say this breed is over 2,000 years old. Many believe that the breed was a dog of royalty and history seems to back this theory up.

The Maltese dog didn't start showing up in the United States until the late nineteenth century. Believed to be brought over from Malta and other areas by English travelers.  

Description: The Maltese dog is a small compact dog that is in the Toy Group. The body of is about equal in height and length. The nose is small and black. The eyes are round and dark. Maltese puppies can take a little time for their black points to completely fill in.

The Maltese tail tends to curl up over the back. The coat can be grown long until it drags the floor. The Maltese coat is usually pure white but may have some light tan or lemon on the ears. The Maltese is known for it's playful and active personality and it's very beautiful white coat.

Maltese Puppies can be very tiny. The Teacup Maltese is not an accepted term with AKC. The term "TEACUP" is merely an adjective to describe a smaller than standard size of the breed. The standard size is up to 7-8 lbs. The Teacup Maltese dog is usually in the 3 to 4 lb or less weight range as an adult. Again this is simply a term used to describe a Maltese that has been bred to be smaller than standard size. This happens when both Mom and Dad are smaller than standard size. Preferably Mom being in the 4 to 5 lb weight range and Dad being 3 lbs or less. Make sure you ask questions when talking to the Maltese breeder.

The Maltese was the 19th most popular dog breed in 2007 according to AKC records. When a newborn litter of Maltese puppies come into the world they are white in color. The puppies do not get their black points until later on. Some puppies take longer than others for their nose and eye-liner to fill in completely.

Many Maltese dog owners allow the coat to grow all the way to the floor. This does take some work and you will need to brush your Maltese at least every two to three days and more often if they get dirty. There are probably more Maltese owners that give their Maltese a puppy cut instead of going thru all the work of keeping the coat brushed and free of tangles. I don't really have a preference when it comes to the Maltese breed. The puppy cut or hair cut for your Maltese puppy or adult will make it easier on you but it's hard to beat the beauty of how a Maltese dog looks with the long coat that reaches all the way to the ground.

Temperament:

The temperament or personality of your Maltese dog will depend on a variety of factors. Their are two factors that I consider to be the most important when it comes to the Maltese breed.

The adult weight of the Maltese dog tends to be in the 3 to 8 lb weight range.

Maltese puppies and dogs can live in many different environments. If you live in a hotter climate I suggest you get your Maltese a hair-cut, preferably a puppy cut, especially if they spend a lot of time outside in the sun. They will be much more comfortable. If you live in a colder climate then you should invest in a Coat or Sweater for your Maltese dog or puppy. The Maltese will be comfortable in an apartment, condo, house or country setting.

Exercise: It is important to give your Maltese puppy or adult dog proper exercise. If you have a fenced in yard you can let your Maltese run loose but I suggest you be out there with it to make sure they don't find a place to get out. Most Maltese dogs can get enough exercise just playing and running in your apartment or house but every Maltese puppy and dog that I've known loves to play outside.

This dog breed makes a good pet for a family or individual in a city or suburban home. It does well in an apartment. This Maltese is a fearless dog that is very trusting and gentle with friends and family, including children but is somewhat wary of strangers. It is very affectionate, loves to give kisses and cuddle.

Life Expectancy: The life expectancy of a Maltese is 12-17 years or more. It is important to make sure your Maltese puppy is up to date on all it's vaccinations, de-wormings.  

Registries: All registries include the Maltese. Some of those registries are as follows: AKC, CKC, APR, APRI, UKC and ACA. There are other registries out there but these are the most popular ones.

Overall the Maltese dog is one of the favorite toy dog breeds both in the United States, Canada and in it's original country Malta. As of right now the Maltese is in the top 5 of most popular dog breeds in the Toy category.

Many Stars and Famous people have owned or do own Maltese Puppies and dogs. Because of their popularity it usually costs $700.00 or more to purchase a Maltese puppy. The Maltese are still popular with today's royalty and famous people.

I hope you have enjoyed this article on the Maltese dog breed.