What is a Maltese?

The Maltese, sometimes called a Maltie, is a small white lap dog that has been bred as a companion breed for literally over a thousand years. The Maltese results from a cross between the Bichon Frise and the Poodle, and is prized for its intelligence, its low-shed coat, and the ease at which the dog can be trained. Some people now train Maltese as visiting dogs to hospitals and convalescent homes, where their small size and hypoallergenic coat make them quite welcome to patients. Their ability to be affectionate with new people makes them valuable assets as visiting or therapy dogs.

Maltese are quite small—at full size the largest Maltese may weigh about 10 pounds (4.54 kg). Some are significantly smaller than this size, with weights as low as three to four pounds (1.36-1.81kg). Concern exists about Maltese that are very small, as females may have difficulty bearing pups, and in general, the small size may indicate poor health or overbreeding.

The dog should appear pure white, with a black button nose and dark brown eyes. The coat of the Maltese is very long, the upper parts extending past the feet. Many owners who have a Maltese for companionship don’t relish the daily coat care and simply have the dogs groomed with a short puppy cut. When they have the shorter cut, Malties greatly resemble their ancestor the Bichon Frise.

Like most white dogs, Maltese dogs are prone to tear-staining, small dark brown spots that appear below the eyes. Wiping the eyes once a day can help reduce this issue though it may not completely eliminate it. Using bleach to remove tear staining is not recommended since it can damage the dog’s eyes.

Maltese are known for their easy companionship, and they have been owned by many historical figures in the past. Queen Elizabeth I, Marie Antoinette and Queen Victoria all owned at least one Maltese. They were sometimes called Roman’s ladies dogs of old, since Roman women might carry the dog in large bell sleeves. Maltese thrive on companionship; it’s simply in their nature to be social. They therefore need pretty constant companionship and are not a good dog choice for people who are often away from home.

There’s some debate about the suitability of the Maltese temperament in homes with children. One concern is that the small size of the dog could make them prone to injury if a child accidentally trips or steps on the dog. While this may be the case, similar concern exists with kids and small cats. Decision about whether a Maltese is suited to your home and family should take into consideration the potential clumsiness of any household member, and whether children might be likely to roughhouse with the dog. If such is the case, a less delicately built dog may be a better choice.

Maltese dogs can be charming, but they should always be obtained from a reputable breeder and chosen for families with adequate time for the dog. Unfortunately, because they are greatly popular, disreputable breeders and puppy mills frequently overbreed this small dog. Choosing a breeder recommended by a humane animal organization like the American Kennel Club will help you support legitimate breeders and not fund puppy mills.

A Maltese is a small breed of dog known for its long, flowing white coat and gentle, affectionate nature. Originating from the Mediterranean island of Malta, the Maltese has been a companion dog for centuries, favored for its beauty and charm. They are a toy breed, typically weighing less than seven pounds, and are recognized by their black, button-like eyes and joyful demeanor.

Maltese dogs are considered a toy breed and are known for their petite size. Adult Maltese typically weigh between 4 to 7 pounds (1.8 to 3.2 kilograms) and stand about 7 to 9 inches (18 to 23 centimeters) tall at the shoulder. Their small size makes them ideal for apartment living and easy to carry around.

Maltese dogs are excellent for families due to their loving and playful nature. They bond closely with their owners and are known to be particularly gentle with children. However, due to their small size, interactions with very young children should be supervised to prevent accidental injury to the dog. They thrive in environments where they receive plenty of attention and affection.

Maltese dogs have a relatively long lifespan compared to other breeds, often living between 12 to 15 years. Some Maltese can even surpass this range, with proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, and a healthy lifestyle. Their longevity is one of the many reasons they are cherished as lifelong companions.

Maltese dogs require regular grooming due to their long, silky coats. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangles and mats. Many owners opt to keep their Maltese in a shorter "puppy cut" for easier maintenance. Additionally, regular baths, ear cleanings, and nail trims are necessary to keep them looking and feeling their best.

While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, Maltese are often considered a good choice for allergy sufferers. According to the American Kennel Club, their lack of an undercoat and minimal shedding can reduce the amount of dander and hair in the environment, which are common allergens. However, individual allergies may vary, and spending time with a Maltese before adopting is advisable.