The Maltese breed is a small, adorable dog that has won the hearts of many. Known for their luxurious white coat and sweet personality, this breed originated from the Central Mediterranean region in Italy’s island of Malta.
Physical Appearance
Maltese dogs are known for their beautiful long hair, weighing up to 7 pounds and standing at around 9 inches tall at the shoulder. They have dark eyes with black rims and floppy ears covered in hair. Their coats are straight or slightly wavy, reaching all the way down to their toes. This breed may sometimes be seen with pale lemon markings on its fur.
Temperament
The Maltese is friendly and loyal but can be reserved around strangers if not well socialized. They require lots of attention and affection from their owners as they thrive on human companionship. These cute little pets do well living indoors or outdoors as long as they have someone nearby to love them.
Health Problems
Maltese tend to live quite a while – often up into their teen years! However, like most breeds, there are some health problems worth noting such as heart disease, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), dental problems due to tooth crowding in their small mouths (which can lead to tooth decay) , luxating patella (a kneecap problem ), deafness , allergies etc..
Exercise Needs
Though small in size compared to many other breeds,Malteses still need exercise- both physical & mental.Most require only short walks daily since they’re susceptible heat exhaustion . Mental stimulation through training sessions/games provides another outlet since these dogs were bred primarily for companionship rather than labor so early signs behavioral issues crop-up without enough stimulus!
Special Grooming Needs
This breed requires frequent grooming care – about twice per week.Without regular brushing,knots matting occurs& heavier trimming will become necessary along with regular nail clipping checks/ear cleaning . Bathing every couple of months will help keep their long silky coat shiny and healthy.
Training
Malteses respond very well to positive reinforcement techniques, meaning that you should reward good behavior while not punishing your dog for bad behaviour. As these dogs can be somewhat difficult to housebreak when young, crate training can be an effective way of accomplishing this. With regular exercise and socialization at a young age -the breed is capable of learning all kinds of tricks but over stimulation occurs so it’s important to avoid pushing too hard!
Compatibility with Children & Other Pets
These little dogs are great with children! They’re patient, gentle creatures who enjoy being cuddled up close in the arms- albeit they don’t tolerate rough play sessions or boisterous behaviors from kids.Likewise ,they generally like other animals-especially if introduced carefully over time &properly supervised .
Personality Quirks
The Maltese is known for its playful nature and loveable quirks. Many owners note that the breed has a ‘crazy’ side where they run around the house in circles doing zoomies !They also have quite an independent streaks due to their breeding as companion pets versus hunting/cattle guardians . However,young Malteses are prone developing separation anxiety making crate training important as well as gradual introductions letting them settle gradually into new surroundings.
Famous Examples
Not unlike some breeds,Malteses had their share fame-Harriet Beecher Stowe (author Uncle Tom’s Cabin ) owned two named Fouche’and Punchie& Queen Victoria supposedly took her pet on lots carriage rides throughout London.Other famous folk such heiress Paris Hilton , singer Britney Spears,champion boxer Sugar Ray Leonard enjoyed sharing their lives with Maltese companions.