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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Maltese
Maltese have a single coat that should be smooth and hanging straight to the ground.
There is a center part along the back and the color should be pure white with a
little light ivory accepted. The head is slightly rounded with a distinct stop and
a tapered muzzle. The dark, rounded eyes are set well and have dark rims. The long
pendant ears are low set and heavily feathered. The nose is black and the teeth
should meet in a level or scissor-like bite. The shoulder blades are slightly sloping
and the elbows are held close to the body. The strong back has a level topline and
the loins are slightly tucked up. The chest is fairly deep and the ribs are well
sprung. The forelegs should be straight and the hindlegs are angulated at stifles
and hocks. The rounded feet are small with black toe pads. The tail is carried over
the back.
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Temperament
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Maltese's are gentle, loving, loyal, spirited, lively and playful. They will notify
their owners if any suspicious noises occur. This breed enjoys the outdoors. Do
not overprotect or overindulge since they may become neurotic.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 8-10" ; Weight: 6-9 lbs.
Female Height: 8-9" ; Weight: 6-9 lbs.
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Health Problems
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This breed is prone to sunburn on the top of the head where the hair is parted.
Also prone to respiratory, digestion, skin, eye and tooth problems. Tends to get
uncomfortable in warm weather. Keep this breed away from damp areas.
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Living Conditions
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This breed is great for apartment living. They do fine without a yard as they are
very active indoors.
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Exercise
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Though this breed does not demand a lot of exercise, they love a daily brisk walk
or a run in the park.
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Life Expectancy
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More than 15 years
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Grooming
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The coat of this breed should be gently brushed daily to keep it from matting. Because
of its length, the pads should be checked for matting and foreign objects. Bathe
regularly making sure he is warm afterwards. Pull out hair that grows in the ears
and check the eyes regularly. The topknot on this breed is usually pulled up and
secured away from the eyes. This breed sheds little or no hair.
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Origin
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The Maltese breed originated from Malta and dates back to 1500 B.C. The breed's
description was recorded by Greek philosopher Theophrastus. In his writings he mentioned
that the Maltese were from Melita, an archaic name for Malta. They have also been
found portrayed in ancient Egyptian statuary. Publius, the Roman governor of Malta
had such a fondness for this breed that he commissioned a portrait of "Issa" and
had poetry written about his favorite Maltese. Over the years, the breed was further
developed with the addition of miniature spaniel and poodle blood. Maltese were
brought to England by knights returning from the Crusades. The breed's popularity
increased during the reign of Queen Elizabeth when women of the royal court carried
these dogs in their sleeves and used them for bed warmers. The first Maltese appeared
in the United States in 1877. They are recognized by the AKC and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC Toy, UKC Companion Dog
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