History:

Described by the Greek philosopher Theophrastus as a member of the “Melita” breed—a term harking back to Malta—this ancient canine boasts a fascinating lineage. Developed in Italy with a blend of miniature spaniel and poodle blood, these lively dogs are believed to have been introduced to England by Crusaders returning from the Mediterranean. They soon became especially popular among women, who would carry them in their sleeves and even keep them in their beds. Their appeal, however, extended beyond domestic life; Publius, the Roman governor of Malta, cherished his Maltese so much that he commissioned a portrait of “Issa” and inspired poetry in her honor. Today, the glamorous Maltese remains a beloved pet and a sought-after show dog.

Size – Small

Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years

Breed Appearance:

The Maltese coat is pure white, with light ivory acceptable, and must remain free of waviness, curls, or kinks. Its long, pendant ears and draping tail are thickly covered with hair. Large, dark eyes with distinct rims add to its expressive look. The muzzle tapers slightly, measuring one‐third of the head’s length, and features a black nose with open nostrils and a clear stop. 

Breed Type - Family/guard:

Maltese are some of the best family companions, owing to their charm and gentleness. After becoming comfortable with its owner and other family members, the Maltese will become a new member of the family in a matter of minutes.

Another notable thing about Maltese is that they can be guardians of their homes and families. Maltese are usually delightful lap dogs in stylish coats, and consistent care makes them truly excellent watchdogs.

Training:

Train your Maltese dog with patience, positive reinforcement, and consistency. Start with basic obedience, short sessions, and socialization exercises. Use treats, praise, and gradual challenges to build confidence. Remember to maintain calm energy and reinforce good behaviour consistently.

Health & Care:

Maltese dogs are prone to sunburn along the hair parting and may experience skin, respiratory, eye, and dental issues, as well as slipped stifles. Some have sensitive digestion and can be picky eaters. They are also susceptible to chills and discomfort in hot weather, so they should be kept out of damp areas. To avoid exposure to extreme weather, paper training is a good option for this breed.

Living Condition:

The Maltese is well-suited for apartment living. They are energetic indoors and can thrive even without a yard.

Exercise:

Maltese dogs need a daily walk to stay healthy and balanced. While play provides some exercise, it doesn’t fully satisfy their instinct to walk. Without regular walks, they may develop behavioural issues. They also enjoy romping in a secure, open space like a fenced yard. Playful by nature, they remain active indoors and keep their energy well into old age.

Grooming:

Daily combing and gentle brushing of the Maltese's long, soft coat is essential. Clean the eyes daily to prevent staining and wipe the beard after meals for the same reason. Bathe or dry shampoo regularly, ensuring the dog is thoroughly dried and kept warm. Clean the ears and remove any hair growing inside the ear canal. Regularly check and clean the eyes if needed. Many owners tie the hair on top of the head into a topknot to keep it out of the eyes, while others prefer to clip the hair short for easier maintenance. The Maltese sheds little to no hair, making it a good choice for allergy sufferers.

Advantages:

• Affectionate, gentle, and deeply bonded with owners

• Small and portable – ideal for apartment living

• Low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat – suitable for allergy sufferers

• Good with families, seniors, and other pets

• Eager to please and responsive to training

• Playful and lively without needing excessive exercise

• Generally quiet and well-mannered indoors

Disadvantages:

• High grooming needs – long coat requires daily brushing or regular trimming

• Can develop separation anxiety if left alone too long

• Fragile – not ideal for homes with rough play or very young children

• Prone to dental issues and tear staining

• May be picky eaters or sensitive to dietary changes

• Needs consistent socialisation to prevent shyness or barking

• Can become spoiled or demanding if boundaries aren’t set