The Maltese is the most historical European toy breed and one of the oldest of all breeds. By 1500 b.c the island of Malta was an early trading port, visited by Phoenician sailors. Maltese puppies are particularly mentioned in writings as early as three hundred b.c. Greek artwork consists of puppies of Maltese kind from the 5th century on. There is proof that they even erected tombs to favor the Maltese. Although the puppies were regularly exported and eventually widely distributed throughout Europe and the Orient, the core populace on Malta remained highly remoted from different puppies, resulting in this unique canine that bred actually for centuries. Though the Maltese’s hallmark is its long, silky, amazing white hair, early Maltese came in colors apart from white. By the early fourteenth century, Maltese was introduced to England, and they had become the darlings of the upper class. Writers of the succeeding centuries always commented upon their diminutive size. Still, those little puppies have never been commonplace, and an 1830 painting entitled “The Lion Dog from Malta—Last of His Race” indicates that the breed might also have been in danger of extinction. Soon after, Maltese was introduced to England from Manila. Although at the beginning intended as a gift for Queen Victoria, they passed into different hands, and their offspring have become the first Maltese exhibited in England. At this time, they have been referred to as Maltese Terriers, despite the lack of terrier ancestry or characteristics. In America, the first Maltese were proven as Maltese Lion Dogs around 1877. The name lion canine probably arose from the habit of canine fanciers, mainly those in the Orient, of clipping the puppies to seem like lions. The AKC diagnosed the breed as the Maltese in 1888. The Maltese slowly increased in popularity, and now it ranks as one of the more famous pet toy breed puppies.

Temperement

Long a favorite lapdog, the mild Maltese fills this role admirably. The Maltese also has a wild side and likes to run and play. Despite the harmless look, that is a brave and feisty doggy who may challenge large dogs, and a few enjoy barking. The Maltese are reserved with strangers. It does well in training.

Upkeep

The exercising needs of the Maltese are effortlessly met with indoor games, a romp in the yard, or a brief stroll on a leash. The coat desires combing every one or days. Show coats can be “wrapped” for protection. The white coat can be difficult to maintain cleanliness in a few areas. Pets can be clipped for simpler care.

Health

“Major diagnosis: open fontanel, hypoglycemia, patellar luxation, hydrocephalus, distichiasis, entropion, dental problems, hypothyroidism, portacaval shunt
Occasionally seen: deafness, shaker syndrome
Suggested tests: knee, eye, cardiac
Life span: 12–14 years”

Disclaimer

Note: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet.