Category |
Details |
Origin |
Malta |
Size |
Toy |
Weight |
3–4 kg (7–9 lb) |
Height |
8-9 inches (20-23 cm) |
Lifespan |
12-15 years |
Coat |
The long, silky, single coat |
Colors |
Pure white |
Temperament |
Affectionate, gentle, playful, lively, intelligent |
Nutrition |
High-quality, balanced diet suited to small breeds |
Exercise Needs |
Low; short walks and indoor play suffice |
Grooming Needs |
High; daily brushing and professional grooming every few weeks |
Training |
Needs consistent, positive reinforcement training |
Good with Children |
Generally good with well-behaved children |
Good with Pets |
Usually good with other pets, especially if socialized early |
Health Concerns |
Dental issues, luxating patella, hypoglycemia, collapsed trachea, white shaker syndrome, portosystemic shunt |
Living Environment |
Adaptable to various living conditions; suitable for apartment living |
AKC Group |
Toy Group |
Original Purpose |
Companion |
Socialization |
Important for early and ongoing socialization |
Barking Level |
Low; may bark to alert or when excited |
Independence |
Moderately dependent; enjoys companionship |
Playfulness |
Moderately playful; enjoys interactive play |
Sensitivity Level |
Moderate sensitivity; responsive to owner’s emotions and tone of voice |
Weather Tolerance |
Low tolerance to extreme heat; moderate tolerance to cold |
Dog lovers have been enthralled with the Maltese dog for generations due to its sophisticated look and loving nature. Maltese dogs typically weigh 3 to 4 kg, measure 20 to 23 cm, and live for 12 to 15 years.
Distinguished by its opulent ivory coat and serene disposition, the Maltese is an adored friend and a well-liked option for anyone needing a compact, devoted, smart breed. This article will explore the Maltese dog’s temperament, history, traits, and maintenance needs.
Origin
The term “Maltese dog” comes from the Mediterranean island of Malta, where the breed first appeared more than 2,000 years ago. It is said that these breeds refer to both an ancient variety of white-coated and dwarf dog breeds from Italy.
With a heritage rich in appreciation and admiration, the Maltese dog has been a beloved companion for ages due to its graceful beauty and kind disposition.
Physical Appearance
Maltese dogs are small and cute-looking breeds with a dense, glossy, silky hair falling along the body without any curls. These breeds come in pure white, ivory tinge and light brown color. They weigh around 7-9 pounds and stand 20-23 cm tall. Maltese dogs are well-known for their refined beauty and unique disposition.
Personality
Maltese dogs are modest in stature, but have a brave and loving personality. Like many other small dogs, they behave very calmly and affectionately in any situation.
These dogs frequently develop close relationships with their owners because they love being the centre of attention and thriving in human company. Their intelligence and desire to please make them highly trainable.
How to Take Care of Your Maltese Dog
Grooming
Maltese dogs’ long silky coat require regular brushing and washing to keep the skin and hair in prime condition. To keep your dog’s coat straight and silky for what Maltese are known for, you have to make sure that you are using right cleaning products. Don’t forget to apply conditioner after shampooing to keep your dog’s hair hydrated and nourished.
Once the bath is finished, you should dry out the coat using a towel and make sure it is completely free of any product. Then use a metal comb to brush their hair to make sure they are tangle free.
Health
Maltese dogs are generally healthy, but they are prone to certain health issues, including dental problems due to their small mouths. They can suffer from luxating patella, a condition where the kneecap dislocates, and hypoglycemia, especially in puppies. Collapsed trachea, white shaker syndrome, and portosystemic shunt are other concerns.
These breeds are also considered hypoallergenic that don’t shed.
Exercise
Compared to other small dog breeds, Maltese dogs require less exercise, typically around 30 minutes to 1 hour of exercise per day. You can take them to short walks or play sessions to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. For puppies, the exercise needed will be shorter as they have developing bones and joints.
You have to gradually increase their training as they grow older. Also make sure to avoid exercising them during the hottest days. You have to keep a fresh water bottle to keep them hydrated while playing.
What to or What Not to Feed Them
You have to feed your Maltese with frequent meals that are rich in protein to support their growth. Protein will also help them to stay away from several conditions, like kidney disease. Their food should also contain nutrients like fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. Your dog also needs healthy fats to help them maintain their brain function.
A study reveals that many canine food allergies are caused by feeding your dog a long ingredient diet. Therefore, you need to feed your Maltese with a limited ingredient diet to reduce the chance of an allergy like itchy skin. Keep in mind that these breeds are quite picky, so it is advisable to keep rotating the variety of recipes to keep them exciting.
You should avoid feeding your Maltese with;
- Toxic foods like chocolate, chewing gums, onion, grapes, garlic
- Fatty foods like cheese, or ice cream
- Excessive treats
Pros and Cons for Maltese
Pros | Cons |
Low Shedding: Maltese dogs are excellent choices for anyone with allergies or who enjoys a clean house because of their single-layered coats, which shed very little. | Difficulties with Housebreaking: Maltese dogs can be difficult to toilet train, and some may take longer than others to get the hang of it. |
Long Lifespan: Maltese dogs may live long, healthy lives; with the proper care and attention, they frequently reach 12 to 15 years or older. | Dental Problems: Maltese dogs are predisposed to a number of dental problems, including gum disease and tooth decay. |
Youthful and Energetic: For their small size, Maltese dogs are surprisingly lively and energetic. They are great companions for people or families that lead busy lifestyles. | Sensitive Temperament: Due to their sensitivity, Maltese dogs may react poorly to rigorous training regimens or noisy, chaotic situations. Building trust and confidence in these dogs requires gentle handling techniques and positive reinforcement. |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What type of temperament does Maltese have?
Maltese are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They are playful and typically bond closely with their owners, making them popular companion dogs.
2. How often should Maltese be groomed?
Maltese require frequent grooming due to their long, silky hair. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangles and mats, and professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks to maintain their coat’s health and appearance.
3. Are Maltese good for allergy sufferers?
Maltese are often considered good for allergy sufferers because they have hair that sheds very little, making them one of the breeds that may be easier on allergies. However, individual allergies may vary.
4. What are common health issues in Maltese?
Common health issues in Maltese include dental problems due to their small mouths, luxating patella (slipping kneecaps), and issues related to their delicate size, such as low blood sugar.
5. How much exercise do Maltese need?
Maltese require moderate exercise to remain healthy and happy. Daily walks and play sessions are sufficient for this small breed, as they also enjoy indoor activities and are quite energetic indoors.
Wrapping Up
The Maltese dog is a great companion renowned for its lively, loving, and beautiful disposition. These endearing little puppies enrich their owners’ lives with joy and friendship, whether they are curled up on your lap or out on excursions with you.
