Maltese
With some dog breeds you can simply tell at first glance that they were intended from the start to be “glamour” dogs. Ferreting varmints from a hole in the ground or flushing birds for a hunter is not how they roll. No field work for these pampered pooches. Such is life for the Maltese. They have been a favorite of the upper class, aristocracy, and royalty from as far back as ancient Egypt. In Victorian times, women would often match the color of the ribbon they tied around the Maltese’s topnotch with their own wardrobe, effectively making it the world’s first four-legged accessory item. Today, legions of “Maltese Maniacs” still abound attesting to the powerful charm of this luxuriant little dog whose main purpose in life has always been to lift the spirits of its doting owners.
Origin
The Maltese is believed to be Europe’s oldest toy breed. It has been featured in paintings and other types of artwork dating back some 3,000 years. There does appear to be mild speculation as to the dog’s exact origin. The prevailing thought is that the Maltese originated, as the name implies, on the island of Malta. Still others argue that the name was taken from the Sicilian town of Melita.
There is little debate, however, that this even tempered little dog has led a relatively privileged existence from the very beginning. Early nicknames include The Comforter Dog, The Roman Ladies Dog, and The Majestic Creature, thus confirming that the Maltese was certainly held in high esteem, and more often than not, by society’s highest ranking members.
Appearance
The Maltese has a dazzling, profuse silky coat that falls long and straight, parting along the spine, and concealing the feet completely. There is no undercoat. The skull is slightly rounded, and the body is compact with the height equal to the length. The tail arches gracefully over the back. Although originally the breed came in other light colors, today it is always white with occasional lemon or tan markings around the ears. This can be traced back to Roman emperors who, it is said, believed white to be a sacred color and bred the Maltese accordingly.
Maltese often gradually develop a dark pigmentation around the eyes referred to as its “halo.” This characteristic gives the breed an intriguing, expressive look that only serves to endear it further to its many admirers.
Males and Females range from 8 – 10 inches and 6 – 9 lbs.
Temperament
The Maltese is a spirited, playful, and affectionate dog. It loves to be the center of attention, and is quite accustomed to being there. They are intelligent and easily trained which is advised early on to counteract a tendency to be nippy with strangers. It is tolerant of mature children who are not rough with it. This is an ideal dog for city or apartment dwellers because of its diminutive size and relatively minimal exercise needs.
Like other dogs of the toy category it has the reputation of being “talkative.” In truth this is simply the by-product of a lively, alert breed that tends to bark at the presence of strangers, making it a very adequate watch dog in the process.
Grooming
The Maltese should be brushed and combed daily. It has no undercoat so with routine attention this dog actually sheds very little. Many Maltese owners opt to keep their dog trimmed in a so called “puppy cut” for easier maintenance.
Check the face daily. Certain individual dogs of this breed tend to develop tear stains around the eyes and mouth. Keeping the face dry and clean every day can reduce the staining. Serving only distilled water may also help. Bathe or dry shampoo regularly, making certain the dog is thoroughly warm and dry immediately afterward. Pull out hair growing inside the ear canal to insure increased air flow, and keep the nails trimmed.
Exercise
Despite being an energetic breed the Maltese requires minimal outside exercise. A short daily walk is important, and will do just fine. Like most dogs they love to romp and play outside, but they are so active indoors that they can get by without a yard. With controlled diet and proper care, the Maltese is a breed that generally remains active well into old age.
Summary
No longer does one have to be of royal lineage to become a “Maltese Maniac.” Indeed, it’s not even necessary to have a back yard to enjoy the same charms that this celebrated little dog bestowed on its ancient, entitled owners. The disposition of this elegant breed has endured the test of time. You’ll find the Maltese to be every bit the same glamorous, delightful pet today, as the one that graced the thrones of Emperors and adorned the arms of Queens some 3,000 years ago.
For more information on this adorable little dog, please read The Maltese