{"id":90892,"date":"2014-12-09T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2014-12-08T22:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/?p=90892"},"modified":"2025-11-12T14:47:16","modified_gmt":"2025-11-12T12:47:16","slug":"maltese","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tvaryny.com\/us\/breed-maltese","title":{"rendered":"Maltese"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The Maltese<\/strong> is not just a dog, but a living history spanning millennia. This small breed of exquisite white dogs, whose silky coat can reach the ground, has been a favorite of royalty, aristocrats, and connoisseurs of refined beauty for centuries. The delicacy of their appearance perfectly matches the soft and gentle nature of these companion dogs, who accompany their owners with boundless devotion. Although it’s hard to imagine this aristocratic dog in a working role today, the breed’s history may have begun with a less glamorous but important job – hunting rodents in port warehouses. It’s unknown who first saw the courtly elegance in these tiny hunters, but the Maltese soon became a living symbol of status and wealth. Read more about all the features of this amazing breed on Tvaryny<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maltese: A Brief Breed Overview<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Maltese<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Characteristic<\/th>Description<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
Origin<\/strong><\/td>Central Mediterranean (Patronage: Italy)<\/td><\/tr>
FCI Group<\/strong><\/td>Group 9 (Companion and Toy Dogs), Section 1 (Bichons and related breeds)<\/td><\/tr>
Lifespan<\/strong><\/td>12-16 years<\/td><\/tr>
Height at withers<\/strong><\/td>Males: 21-25 cm (8-10 in), Females: 20-23 cm (8-9 in)<\/td><\/tr>
Weight<\/strong><\/td>3-4 kg (Under 7 pounds)<\/td><\/tr>
Temperament<\/strong><\/td>Gentle, playful, intelligent, very devoted, sensitive<\/td><\/tr>
Coat<\/strong><\/td>Very long, silky, straight, without undercoat<\/td><\/tr>
Color<\/strong><\/td>Pure white (a pale ivory tint is permitted)<\/td><\/tr>
Grooming needs<\/strong><\/td>Very high (daily brushing, eye care)<\/td><\/tr>
Shedding<\/strong><\/td>Almost non-existent (considered hypoallergenic)<\/td><\/tr>
Sociability<\/strong><\/td>Requires constant human contact, prone to separation anxiety<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

History of the Breed’s Origin<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Maltese is one of the most ancient dog breeds in the world, with a history that is lost in the mists of time. The name “Maltese” doesn’t necessarily mean it originated from the island of Malta. The etymology is likely linked to the Semitic word “m\u00e0lat,” meaning “harbor” or “refuge.” This root is present in the names of many Mediterranean locations, including Malta, the island of Mljet (Melitaie), and the Sicilian town of Melita. This points to their prevalence in the port cities of the ancient world, where they probably hunted rats and mice in the holds of ships and in warehouses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The first records of these small white dogs date back over 2,800 years. Ancient Greek philosophers, including Aristotle, mentioned “Canis Melitaeus” in their writings. Images of small dogs resembling modern Maltese are found on ancient Greek vases and amphorae. In Ancient Rome, the Maltese were incredibly popular among noble matrons. They were a symbol of status and luxury, referred to as the “Roman ladies’ dog.” Women carried them in their sleeves and took them to all social events. It was even believed that these dogs possessed healing properties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After the fall of the Roman Empire, the breed survived thanks to the efforts of European aristocracy and, possibly, monks. During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the Maltese remained a favorite in royal courts. They often appear in the paintings of famous artists, such as Titian and Goya, immortalized alongside their noble owners. It was during this time that selective breeding took place, aimed at reducing their size and improving coat quality, transforming them exclusively into companion animals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Maltese belongs to the large family of Bichon dogs originating from the Mediterranean. This group also includes other related breeds, such as the Bichon Frise<\/a>, which is known for its curly “plush” coat. Another relative is the Bolognese<\/a>, or Italian Bichon, which has a fluffier and more flocked coat structure. The Havanese<\/a>, which can come in various colors, is also part of this family. Among them all, the Maltese stands out with its unique, long, straight, and silky white coat that lacks an undercoat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What the Maltese Looks Like: Breed Standard and Appearance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Maltese<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The elegance of the Maltese is not just about the coat, but also its harmonious body structure. It is a small, compact dog, with a body length that slightly exceeds the height at the withers. The overall impression is one of elegance and flowing lines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  • Head:<\/strong> The skull is slightly rounded, with a noticeable transition from the forehead to the muzzle (stop). The muzzle is of medium length, not square but not overly pointed, tapering towards the nose.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Nose:<\/strong> The nose must be black, large, and have well-opened nostrils. Any other pigmentation is a fault.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Eyes:<\/strong> Large and round, but not bulging. The color is a dark, almost black. The eyelids must also be black. The expression is lively, intelligent, and very expressive.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Ears:<\/strong> Dropped, set low, and lying close to the head. They are covered in very long hair that blends with the coat on the neck and shoulders.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Bite:<\/strong> A scissor bite is the standard. The jaws are well-developed, though they appear delicate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Body:<\/strong> Compact, with a straight topline. The withers are slightly raised. The chest is quite deep.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Tail:<\/strong> Set high, thick at the base and tapering to the tip. It forms a graceful curve over the back, often touching the back with its tip. The tail is covered with very long hair that falls to one side like a plume.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Paws:<\/strong> Small, round, with black pads and (ideally) black nails.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

    The Crowning Glory: The Maltese Coat<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The coat is the breed’s calling card. It is unique in its structure:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    • Texture:<\/strong> Extremely silky, dense, glossy, and heavy. It falls to the ground like a cloak, without any frizz or curls.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Undercoat:<\/strong> The Maltese has no undercoat<\/strong>. This makes its coat similar to human hair. It’s this specific feature that makes them shed very little and be considered hypoallergenic.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Color:<\/strong> Only pure white<\/strong>. The standard permits a very pale ivory tint, but any patches (fawn, yellow) are a serious fault or disqualification.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Length:<\/strong> In show dogs, the coat can be longer than their height. It grows continuously, much like human hair.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

      Pros and Cons of the Breed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
      \"Maltese<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

      The Maltese is a wonderful companion, but like any breed, it has its advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to assess them soberly before bringing this snow-white angel into your home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Pros<\/th>Cons<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
      Ideal Companion:<\/strong> Endlessly devoted, gentle, loves being the center of attention and spending time with their owner.<\/td>Separation Anxiety:<\/strong> Absolutely cannot tolerate being alone. May bark, howl, and destroy things if left alone for long periods.<\/td><\/tr>
      Hypoallergenic Coat:<\/strong> Sheds very little and has no “doggy” smell, often making them a good choice for allergy sufferers.<\/td>Extremely High Grooming Needs:<\/strong> Requires daily brushing to prevent matting. The white coat gets dirty easily.<\/td><\/tr>
      High Intelligence:<\/strong> Learns commands and tricks easily when motivated (usually with treats and praise).<\/td>“Small Dog Syndrome”:<\/strong> Without proper socialization and training, they can become stubborn, jealous, and excessively vocal.<\/td><\/tr>
      Adaptability:<\/strong> Feels great in an apartment; doesn’t require a lot of living space.<\/td>Health Issues:<\/strong> Prone to dental problems, luxating patella, and eye issues.<\/td><\/tr>
      Long-Lived:<\/strong> Has a long lifespan (12-16 years), bringing joy to the family for many years.<\/td>Tear Stains:<\/strong> Prone to forming brown stains under the eyes (epiphora), which requires constant hygiene.<\/td><\/tr>
      Playful Nature:<\/strong> Remains active and playful well into old age.<\/td>Fragility:<\/strong> Due to their small size, they are easily injured. Not the best choice for families with very young children.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

      Character and Temperament: The Ideal Companion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
      \"Maltese<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

      The Maltese’s gentle nature and natural intelligence make it a wonderful companion for all family members, especially for the elderly or those who spend most of their time at home. This is a dog that literally “sticks” to its owner. They will follow you from room to room, settle on your lap or in your arms at the first opportunity, and genuinely cherish every second spent together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      This playful and lively little dog<\/strong> is friendly towards its surroundings. They usually get along well with other dogs and even cats, especially if they grew up together. However, their playfulness needs to be supervised. They can be fearless and may rush at dogs much larger than themselves, unaware of their own fragility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      One of the key character traits is extreme sensitivity<\/strong>. The Maltese keenly senses its owner’s mood. They react poorly to shouting, family arguments, or harsh treatment. They need a calm, loving atmosphere. If you come home tired or upset, the Maltese will surely try to “comfort” you by licking your hand or just sitting quietly nearby.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      This breed is also known for its “doorbell” role. They have sharp hearing and will definitely alert you with a loud bark to the arrival of guests or any suspicious noise outside the door. It’s important to teach them the “Quiet!” command from a young age so this doesn’t become a problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Health: Typical Illnesses and Prevention<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
      \"Maltese<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

      The cheerful Maltese is indeed among the long-lived dogs. However, like many miniature breeds, they have a predisposition to certain genetic and acquired diseases. The claim that they have “resistance to various diseases” is overly optimistic. A careful owner must be aware of these risks for timely prevention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Dental Problems<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

      This is probably problem number one<\/strong> for the Maltese. They have small jaws but the same set of teeth as a large dog. This leads to overcrowding, which in turn promotes the rapid build-up of plaque and tartar. This leads to gingivitis, periodontal disease, and early tooth loss. Regular (ideally daily) brushing with a special toothpaste is a must. Periodic professional cleanings at the vet are also necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Eye Problems and Tear Stains<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Brown or rusty stains under the eyes (epiphora) are a very common aesthetic problem for the breed. The causes can be varied: from a simple allergy (to food, pollen) to blocked tear ducts or a genetic predisposition. Additionally, Maltese can suffer from more serious ophthalmic ailments, such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), which leads to blindness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Musculoskeletal Problems<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Luxating Patella<\/strong> is a common problem among small dogs. The kneecap “pops out” of its normal position, causing pain and limping. In mild cases, it can be managed, but severe cases may require surgery. One should also be wary of Legg-Calv\u00e9-Perthes disease (avascular necrosis of the femoral head).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Other Common Conditions<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

      “Reverse Sneezing”:<\/strong> This isn’t a disease but a spasm common in small breeds. The dog suddenly starts to “honk” or snort loudly. It looks frightening but is usually not dangerous and passes on its own. Maltese can also have sensitive digestive systems and a tendency toward heart conditions in old age (e.g., mitral valve disease).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Problem<\/th>Symptoms<\/th>Prevention \/ Action<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
      Dental Problems<\/strong><\/td>Bad breath, red gums, tartar build-up, reluctance to eat<\/td>Daily brushing, professional cleaning at the vet, hard dental treats<\/td><\/tr>
      Tear Stains (Epiphora)<\/strong><\/td>Brown\/red stains under the eyes<\/td>Daily eye hygiene, using filtered water, diet review (eliminating allergens)<\/td><\/tr>
      Luxating Patella<\/strong><\/td>Intermittent limping, dog “skips” on three legs<\/td>Weight control, avoiding jumps from heights, consulting an orthopedist<\/td><\/tr>
      Hypoglycemia (in puppies)<\/strong><\/td>Weakness, disorientation, trembling, seizures<\/td>Frequent feeding of puppies, having honey or glucose on hand for emergencies<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

      Grooming: Not Just the Coat<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
      \"Happy<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

      Maltese are kept exclusively as indoor dogs. They are completely unsuited for living outside. Their care is a daily task that requires time and patience. And this doesn’t just apply to their luxurious coat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Grooming the Snow-White Coat<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Brushing:<\/strong> This is the most important ritual. To avoid matting, a Maltese with a long coat must be brushed daily<\/strong>. Use a metal comb with wide teeth and a slicker brush. Start from the ends, gradually working your way up to the roots. Pay special attension<\/strong> to the areas behind the ears, under the armpits, and on the belly, where mats form the quickest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Bathing:<\/strong> Surprisingly, the white coat needs to be washed often – every 1-3 weeks, depending on how dirty it gets. Use only specialized shampoos for white dogs that do not dry out the skin and coat. Always use a conditioner or balm – it will be impossible to brush the long coat without it. It is forbidden to use human cosmetics, as dogs have a different skin pH.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Clipping:<\/strong> If you don’t plan to participate in dog shows, the best solution is a “puppy cut” or utility clip. This will make grooming much easier, although it won’t eliminate it entirely. You’ll need to visit a groomer every 1.5-2 months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Hygiene for Eyes, Ears, and Teeth<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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      • Eyes:<\/strong> Wipe the area under the eyes daily with special lotions or just a cotton pad soaked in cooled boiled water. This helps to combat tear stains.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Ears:<\/strong> Because the ears are dropped, ventilation in the ear canal is poor, creating a risk of ear infections. Check the ears weekly. Hair growing inside the ear canal needs to be plucked regularly (by a groomer or vet) to improve air circulation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Teeth:<\/strong> As mentioned, daily brushing is the gold standard for the Maltese.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Nails:<\/strong> Trim the nails every 2-4 weeks. As they are often light-colored, this is easier to do than with breeds that have black nails.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

        Activity and Walks<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Although the Maltese is an apartment dog, it needs physical activity. This doesn’t mean marathon runs. Two short walks of 20-30 minutes a day will be sufficient. They love to run after a ball and play. They can meet most of their energy needs by playing indoors. In cold and rainy weather, be sure to put a coat on the dog, as the lack of an undercoat makes them vulnerable to the cold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Training and Socialization<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
        \"Maltese<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

        Maltese are intelligent dogs, but their training has its own quirks. They will not respond to harsh methods or punishment – only to positive reinforcement<\/strong>. Treats, praise, and toys work wonders with them. They learn commands quickly if training sessions are short, interesting, and consistent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        The main problem in upbringing is “small dog syndrome”<\/strong>. Owners often “humanize” them, letting them get away with things they would never tolerate from a large dog (growling at guests, barking, begging for food). This is a mistake. The Maltese needs clear rules and boundaries, just like any other dog. They need to understand who the “pack leader” is in the home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Early socialization<\/strong> is critical. From a young age, introduce the puppy to different people, sounds, places, and other (well-behaved and vaccinated) dogs. This will help raise a confident and calm dog, not a frightened or aggressive “tyrant”.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        House training can be a challenging process. These minature<\/strong> dogs have small bladders. Be patient and consistent, use puppy pads or a litter box, but don’t forget about regular walks outside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Feeding: Key Recommendations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
        \"Portrait<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

        Dogs with a small body weight are extremely sensitive to dietary imbalances. An improper diet immediately affects their health: digestive problems begin, eyes tear, and the coat deteriorates. The golden rule – never feed a Maltese from your table!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        There are two main approaches to feeding:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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        • Complete foods (dry or wet):<\/strong> This is the easiest way to provide a balanced diet. Choose super-premium or holistic<\/strong> class foods designed specifically for small (mini\/small) breeds. Avoid foods high in grains (corn, wheat), artificial colors, and preservatives.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Natural diet:<\/strong> If you choose this path, be prepared to calculate the diet meticulously. The foundation should be lean meat (turkey, chicken, rabbit, beef), offal, a little fish (sea, boiled), dairy products (low-fat cottage cheese, kefir), vegetables (carrots, pumpkin, zucchini), and a few fruits. Do not offer the dog raw freshwater fish or pork. You must add vitamin and mineral supplements as recommended by your vet.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

          Many Maltese are prone to food allergies<\/strong>. If the dog has teary eyes, itchy skin, or digestive issues, the first step is to review its diet. Chicken protein is a common allergen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Clean water is a vital aspect. It must be freely available 24\/7. Many owners note that using filtered or bottled water helps to reduce tear staining.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Interesting Facts About the Breed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
            \n
          1. One of the oldest breeds:<\/strong> The Maltese’s history spans nearly 3,000 years, making it one of the oldest “toy” breeds in the world.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          2. “The Roman Ladies’ Dog”:<\/strong> In Ancient Rome, they were so prized that the poet Strabo called them “perfection in miniature.”<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          3. Healing dogs:<\/strong> In antiquity, it was believed that Maltese could cure illnesses. They were placed on a sick person’s pillow, with the belief they would absorb the ailment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          4. White color – a result of breeding:<\/strong> Although different colored Maltese likely existed in ancient times, centuries of selective breeding cemented pure white as the only standard.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          5. Unsurpassed companions:<\/strong> The Maltese was bred not for work (hunting or guarding), but exclusively to be a companion and to give love.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          6. Stars of art:<\/strong> They are depicted in countless Renaissance paintings alongside aristocrats, which underscored their high status.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

            Frequently Asked Questions About the Breed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

            Do Maltese shed a lot?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

            No. This is one of the main advantages of the breed. The Maltese does not have an undercoat, and its coat structure is similar to human hair. They do not have a seasonal shed. Individual hairs may fall out (just as with people), but you will not find clumps of fur on your sofas and clothes. This makes them a good choice for allergy sufferers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Are Maltese suitable for families with small children?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

            This is a difficult question. On one hand, the Maltese is playful and gentle. On the other, they are very fragile. A small child can accidentally injure the dog during play (drop it, hug it too tightly, step on it). Therefore, Maltese are more often recommended for families with older children (from 7-8 years old) who already understand how to behave around a small animal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Can a Maltese be left home alone?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

            This is extremely undesirable. The Maltese is a companion dog, bred for constant human contact. They do not tolerate loneliness well and are very prone to separation anxiety. If you work full-time away from home, this breed is likely not the right fit for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Why do Maltese get tear stains?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Brown stains under the eyes (epiphora) are a common problem. There can be many reasons: a food allergy (often to chicken or grains), a reaction to the water, a genetic predisposition, blocked tear ducts, or simply long hair irritating the eye. This requires a comprehensive approach: hygiene, diet selection, and possibly a consultation with a veterinary ophthalmologist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            What is the average lifespan of a Maltese?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Maltese are true long-livers among dogs. With proper care, a correct diet, and regular vet visits, their average lifespan is 12-16 years, and some live to be 18.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Video About the Breed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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