THE MALTESE
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The Maltese breed can be traced back many centuries. There is a school of thought that this breed has existed for more than two thousand years. It is believed that the Maltese descended from a Spitz type dog found among Swiss Lake dwellers. This dog would have been bred down to obtain the small size of the contemporary Maltese. There is also some evidence that the Maltese originated from Asia. However, the breed is usually associated with the island of Malta in the Mediterranean. Most likely they were taken to Europe through the Middle East by nomadic tribes. Today, Maltese is a very popular companion dog and a very glamorous show dog.
The Maltese is a toy dog with a compact build with an overall appearance which denotes vigour, eagerness an affection. The height from the dog's withers to the ground is equal to the length from the dog's withers to the tail. They have sloped shoulder blades and well -knit elbows that are held close to the body. Their chest is comparatively deep and their loins are sturdy, taut and feature a slight tuck-up underneath. The neck of the Maltese is long enough to enable a high head carriage. The breed's back is level and ribs are well sprung. Their limbs are finely boned. Forelegs of the breed are straight, with their pastern joints devoid of any substantial bend. Their strong hind legs are sturdy and moderately angulated at the hocks and stifles. They have small, round feet with black toe pads and a plumed tail that is carried elegantly over the dog's back. The Maltese head is of medium length and well in proportion to the dog's size. They have a slightly rounded skull with a moderately defined stop. Their eyes are round and dark and their medium-length muzzle is fine and tapered. They have a black nose and teeth that meet in an even or scissors bite. Ears of this breed are low-set and heavily feathered. The coat of a Maltese is long, flat and silky. It hangs over the side of the body and it reaches almost to the ground. The coat colour is pure white. Lemon or light tan shading on the ears may be present. The height of a Maltese is 20 cms -25cm (8 inches -10 inches). Maltese weights can vary between 2.8kg to 4 kgs.
Maltese are lively, cheerful and energetic. They are highly intelligent, trusting, gentle and devoted to their owners. They are very courageous and will bark at any suspicious noise, strangers or other dogs invading their territory They are very good with kind and caring children and other animals and pets but may snap at cruel or inconsiderate children.
The Maltese dog is a relatively healthy breed with few inherent problems. Some health concerns for this breed include luxating patella, progressive retinal atrophy and portosystemic liver shunt.
The long coat of the Maltese needs to be brushed and combed on a daily basis. Maltese should be bathed regularly and thoroughly dried afterwards. Their eyes and ears should be cleaned daily to prevent staining and excessive hair should be removed around the ears. Their toenails need to be trimmed on a regular basis. The hair at the top of the head is often tied up in a top knot. Many owners keep their Maltese in a shorter coat (Puppy Cut) if they do not show their dog. This breed sheds little or no hair and is highly recommended for those who suffer from allergies. Maltese require flea control treatment, heartworm treatment and all round intestinal worming on a regular basis.
The Maltese is well-suited to life in a small household or unit. They enjoy going for walks and playing in a safe and secure outdoor area.
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