Are you looking for a small, gentle, and cute companion? Look no further than the Maltese, a toy breed of dog with a rich history and an irresistible charm. In this article, HowPetCare will dig into the fascinating world of the Maltese, exploring their appearance, history, temperament, training, and more. Whether you're a dog lover or considering getting a Maltese as a pet, this article will provide you with all the information you need to know. So let's dive in!
What Does a Maltese Dog Look Like?
The Maltese is known for its distinctive appearance. These toy dogs have a silky white coat and possess the following features:
- Head: Medium-sized and well-proportioned.
- Muzzle: Fine, tapered, and of medium length.
- Eyes: Dark and round, set closely.
- Ears: Long, pendant, low set, hanging close to the head and heavily feathered.
- Tail: Plumed and furry.
History and Origin
The Maltese is an ancient breed with a fascinating history. They are said to have originated from the central Mediterranean region and took their name after Malta, the European island nation. Throughout history, the Maltese has been referred to by various names such as “Melita,” “Maltese Lion dog,” “ancient dog of Malta,” and “Roman Ladies' dog.”
In ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian cultures, these small dogs were immortalized through poems and paintings. It is believed that the Phoenicians introduced the Maltese to Malta even before the Greeks. During the Roman period, the Maltese became a symbol of loyalty and were thought to possess healing powers. They were often kept on the pillows of sick individuals in the hopes of a speedy recovery.
Over time, the Maltese faced challenges, particularly during the 17th and 18th centuries when breeders attempted to reduce their size. This experiment was not successful, and breeds like miniature spaniels and poodles were introduced to save the Maltese from extinction.
The Maltese made their way to the United States in the latter half of the 19th century and gained popularity during the mid-20th century. Today, they are renowned in dog shows, often winning titles in the Toy Group.
Teacup Maltese
The Maltese is a toy breed, and there is a smaller variety known as the teacup Maltese. However, many reputable kennel clubs do not recognize teacup standards due to concerns about health issues caused by inbreeding. Teacup Maltese dogs are prone to heart problems, dental issues, low blood sugar levels, weak bones, and seizures.
How big does the teacup Maltese get? Teacup Maltese typically weigh only 2 to 4 pounds, significantly less than regular toy Maltese dogs.
Temperament and Personality
Lively, playful, affectionate, and energetic are just a few words to describe the Maltese's temperament. These small dogs make perfect companions and are known for their loyalty to both family members and strangers.
Maltese dogs crave attention and can become emotionally stressed if neglected. They may resort to licking or chewing their paws for comfort. Some Maltese dogs may bark at unfamiliar faces to express their discontent. It is important to note that most breeders do not recommend placing a Maltese in a home with young children due to the risk of accidental injury. However, they can be excellent playmates for older children who can handle them responsibly.
Maltese dogs generally get along well with other dogs in the family but may be cautious or anxious around unfamiliar canines. It is advisable to keep them on a leash and supervise their behavior when interacting with other dogs. Despite their small size, Maltese dogs may challenge larger dogs due to their fearless nature.
These adorable dogs are known to bark, especially when they crave attention or are left alone for extended periods. However, they do not have a strong chasing instinct and can coexist peacefully with cats.
As a service dog: Although small, the Maltese can be trained for various service tasks, such as assisting people in opening doors or retrieving small objects. Their cute and cuddly nature also makes them excellent therapy dogs, providing comfort to those in distress.
Training
The Maltese is an intelligent breed that responds well to training. According to Stanley Coren's book “The Intelligence of Dogs,” they rank 59th in terms of intelligence, indicating their trainability and eagerness to please.
Socialization: To prevent small dog syndrome, it is crucial to socialize your Maltese from a young age. Introduce them to well-vaccinated and trained dogs by inviting friends over or visiting a dog park (avoiding direct contact at first). Expose them to different types of dogs from a distance and reward good behavior with treats.
Obedience: Teach your Maltese puppies the “quiet” command early on. When they are about to bark, use a loud and firm voice to say “quiet” and use a clicker if available. Reward them with a treat when they stop barking, reinforcing the association between the command and the desired behavior. Ignoring continuous barking is important to avoid reinforcing the behavior. Regular exercise and mental stimulation will help reduce destructive or undesirable traits.
Feeding
According to the National Research Council of the National Academies, Maltese dogs require approximately 400 calories per day. Some recommended dog foods for Maltese include Blue Buffalo Grain Free Recipe for Small Dogs, Halo Spot's Stew Natural Dry for Small Breeds, and Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult Dry. Additionally, a homemade diet can be supplemented with animal protein sources such as beef, chicken, fish, and lamb. Make sure to include essential nutrients and fat-soluble vitamins beneficial for your Maltese.
FAQs
1. Are Maltese dogs good with children?
- While Maltese dogs can be great companions for older children, they are not recommended for households with young kids due to their small size and the risk of accidental injury.
2. Do Maltese dogs get along with other pets?
- Maltese dogs generally get along well with other pets, including cats. However, proper introductions and supervision are important to ensure a harmonious coexistence.
3. How often should I groom my Maltese?
- The Maltese has a long, silky coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Daily brushing and periodic professional grooming are recommended.
4. Do Maltese dogs shed?
- Maltese dogs have hair instead of fur, which means they shed less than other breeds. However, regular grooming is still necessary to maintain their coat's health and appearance.
5. Are Maltese dogs hypoallergenic?
- While no dog breed is truly hypoallergenic, Maltese dogs are considered hypoallergenic due to their minimal shedding and low dander production. However, individual reactions may vary.
6. Can Maltese dogs be left alone for long periods?
- Maltese dogs thrive on human companionship and should not be left alone for extended periods. They may become anxious or develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long.
7. Are Maltese dogs easy to train?
- Yes, Maltese dogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Consistent positive reinforcement and early socialization are key to successful training.
8. How much exercise do Maltese dogs need?
- Maltese dogs are small and do not require extensive exercise. Daily walks, interactive play sessions, and mental stimulation are sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.
9. Do teacup Maltese dogs have health issues?
- Teacup Maltese dogs, which are smaller than regular Maltese, are prone to health issues due to inbreeding. These can include heart problems, dental issues, low blood sugar levels, weak bones, and seizures.
10. Can Maltese dogs be used as therapy dogs?
- Yes, Maltese dogs have a gentle and comforting nature, making them suitable for therapy work. They can provide emotional support to those in need, such as nursing home residents or individuals experiencing distress.
Key Points
- The Maltese is a small toy breed known for its gentle disposition and cute appearance.
- They have a rich history that dates back centuries and have been cherished by various cultures throughout time.
- The teacup variety of the Maltese is smaller but comes with potential health issues.
- Maltese dogs are lively, affectionate, and make great companions for individuals and families.
- Proper training and socialization are essential for a well-behaved Maltese.
- Regular grooming and a balanced diet are important for their health and well-being.
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