If you’re looking for a sweet-tempered, small breed that is perfect for first-time dog owners, then the Maltese might be the right dog for you! Read on to find out more about this affectionate little breed.
Breed Snapshot
- Size: Small dog (3 – 4 kg)
- Coat: Hypoallergenic coat. The Maltese has a long coat that requires a lot of maintenance.
- Energy: High-energy dog. These little dogs need around 30 minutes of exercise a day.
- Lifespan: 12 – 15 years
- Country of origin: Malta
- Breed type: A member of the toy dog group. These small dogs have big personalities and are loyal and affectionate.
- Other names: Maltese lion dog
- Great breed for:
• Apartment living and homes with limited space
• Families with children and other pets
What is a Maltese?
The Maltese is one of the most ancient breeds in the world and comes from the island of Malta. It is highly prized for its appearance and independent nature and has featured in many poetic works and paintings over the years.
These loyal and affectionate, popular little dogs have big personalities and make perfect companions for people of all ages.
What does a Maltese look like?
The Maltese has a pure white, long, and luxurious coat that has no undercoat. The coat requires plenty of grooming to keep it free from matting. The breed has a rounded head, broad muzzle, striking black nose, and the oval-shaped eyes are brown with black rims. The ears are long and feathered and hang close to the head, and the jaw has a perfect scissor bite. The Maltese has straight legs and sloping shoulders, and the feathered tail is carried over the back.
The Maltese stands at around 20 – 25 cm and weighs between 3 and 4 kg.
What makes the Maltese special?
The Maltese has a hypoallergenic coat which is perfect for those who suffer from allergies. This small breed is an excellent choice for those who have limited living space and are looking for a dog that is perfect for first-time dog owners. The Maltese is a docile, affectionate, and easy-going breed that loves to play and gets on well with children and other pets. These little dogs also remain puppy-like in appearance for most of their lives and make wonderful therapy dogs.
How often do I need to groom my Maltese?
The Maltese has a long coat that needs careful and regular attention to keep it in good condition. Combing and brushing is necessary to prevent mats from forming in the coat. Mats can form quickly in an unmaintained coat and removing them can be a painful experience for the dog. Bathing should also be performed periodically.
It is a good idea to get your Maltese used to being groomed from an early age so that it gets used to a good grooming routine. The ears and nails should be checked from time to time, and the teeth should be cleaned at least once a week to prevent tooth and gum problems. A professional dog groomer is recommended for this breed, so don’t forget to check out the petcloud.com.au website for details on how to find dog grooming services in your area. If you need help getting your dog to the groomers, you can also find information on the petcloud.com.au website about pet taxis.
How often should I walk my Maltese?
The Maltese is a lively little breed that likes to keep active in the home. They only require about 30 minutes of exercise a day.
How do I train my Maltese?
The Maltese is highly intelligent and will learn new things quickly and enthusiastically. Training can be a great way to build up a strong bond with your little canine companion. Always keep training sessions short and use consistent training methods. Positive reinforcement, as with many dog breeds, works well with this small breed.
Quickfire Maltese questions
How long will my Maltese live?
The Maltese has a good lifespan of between 12 and 15 years.
Can my Maltese be left alone during the day?
The Maltese can cope with being left home alone for short periods of time but should not be left for long periods without any human contact. If this breed gets distressed, it can lead to destructive behaviour and increased anxiety.
Is the Maltese a ‘barker’?
The Maltese can be a bit of a ‘Barker’, so training may be required to calm the problem down.
What kind of health risks does the Maltese face?
The Maltese can suffer form a few health conditions, such as breathing issues, colitis, and hip dysplasia.
Where can I get a Maltese?
If you have now decided on this affectionate and playful little breed, you will obviously want to know where to get one from. It is important to ask around and find out where the best places are in your area for purchasing a Maltese. Search to find reputable breeders and avoid buying from places like pet shops, puppy mills, and online marketplaces. You can also take a look at the RSPCA website for more information on how to adopt a puppy or dog.
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